14 DAY TRIAL // Apparently, a poor oral hygiene can lead to the development of life-threatening conditions, such as endocarditis. In a new study, investigators at the University of Bristol found that bacteria developing inside tooth plaques can also lead to the formation of blood clots.
Both clots and endocarditis are conditions affecting the cardiovascular system, with potentially serious consequences for human health. They can be avoided by brushing your teeth, flossing and cleaning your tongue and the inner walls of the cheek regularly.
Details of the research were presented this week at the Spring Conference of the Society for General Microbiology, in Dublin, Ireland. The study promises to lead experts on a path to develop new treatments against infective heart diseases.
“What our work clearly shows is how important it is to keep your mouth healthy through regular brushing and flossing, to keep these bacteria in check,” UB expert Dr. Helen Petersen explains.