Brushing teeth is a routine activity for most people, especially in the morning. Many start their day by brushing before eating or drinking anything. This habit ensures freshness and oral cleanliness, but the same dedication is often missing at night.

For several individuals, skipping the night brush is common. Reasons vary from laziness and fatigue to the belief that missing one session has little effect. However, medical experts say this assumption is wrong. Neglecting to brush twice daily may not only damage oral health but can also pose serious risks to heart health.

Renowned gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi has addressed this issue through a public post. He explained how improper oral hygiene, particularly avoiding night brushing, could increase the likelihood of heart-related diseases. His insights connect oral care habits directly with cardiovascular health.

The Direct Link Between Oral Health and Heart Disease

Dr Sethi emphasises that not brushing before bedtime increases the risk of heart problems. This connection between oral and heart health has been supported by several research studies. These studies show that harmful bacteria in the mouth, if not removed, can cause far-reaching health issues.

When brushing is neglected, particularly at night, bacteria accumulate in the mouth. These bacteria can spread beyond the oral cavity, entering the bloodstream and leading to inflammation. Inflammation plays a critical role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. This chain reaction highlights why dental hygiene must be treated as an essential aspect of overall health care.

How Bacteria Travel from the Mouth to the Heart

Poor oral hygiene allows harmful microorganisms to thrive. Over time, bacteria from the gums and teeth can break through oral tissue barriers. Once they enter the blood, they can move freely through the circulatory system.

Dr Sethi explains that these bacteria often settle in areas where blood vessels are already weakened or damaged. They can trigger inflammatory responses, which may result in plaque build-up in arteries. This process can restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Unhealthy gums, also known as periodontal disease, further raise this risk. If gum disease is left untreated, it can significantly affect cardiovascular health over the years.

Why Night Brushing Matters More Than You Think

Saliva production slows down significantly during sleep. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria naturally. Reduced saliva flow at night creates an environment where bacteria can multiply faster.

Night brushing removes the debris and bacteria collected throughout the day, lowering bacterial growth overnight. By skipping this step, a person allows harmful organisms to remain active for several hours, raising the risk of oral and systemic health issues.

Dr Sethi stresses that night brushing is one of the simplest yet most effective preventive measures for maintaining both oral and heart health.

Research Evidence Supporting the Connection

Citing research, Dr Sethi points out that people with good oral hygiene habits enjoy better cardiovascular health. Those who brush twice daily and visit their dentist regularly are found to have a lower risk of developing heart-related diseases.

The studies suggest that dental care should not be viewed as a cosmetic concern alone. It is a crucial preventive strategy against life-threatening conditions. Maintaining oral hygiene is a low-cost and effective method to protect heart health over the long term.

How Inflammation Links Oral Health to Heart Health

The connection between oral bacteria and heart problems largely revolves around inflammation. When bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream, they can attach to damaged blood vessel linings. The body’s immune system responds, leading to inflammation.

Over time, this chronic inflammation can cause arteries to narrow or harden. Known as atherosclerosis, this condition disrupts healthy blood circulation. It is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and strokes worldwide.

By practising regular brushing, especially at night, individuals can significantly reduce the bacterial load and, consequently, the chances of triggering such inflammatory processes.

Gum Health as a Protective Barrier

Healthy gums act as a barrier to prevent bacteria from entering the bloodstream. When gum health deteriorates, this protective barrier weakens. This weakness allows harmful microorganisms to pass through more easily, creating opportunities for systemic infections.

Dr Sethi notes that gum disease is not always painful in its early stages, which makes it easy to ignore. However, even mild gum issues can compromise cardiovascular health over time.

The Two-Brush Rule and Its Long-Term Benefits

Brushing twice daily is not just a dentist’s recommendation; it is a necessity for long-term wellness. Morning brushing cleanses overnight plaque and prepares the mouth for the day. Night brushing clears the day’s accumulated bacteria and food particles before sleep.

Skipping either session allows bacteria to thrive for extended periods, increasing the risk of gum disease and systemic health problems. Dr Sethi encourages pairing brushing with flossing to clean areas between teeth, where a toothbrush may not reach.

Dental Visits as Preventive Care

Many people visit the dentist only when experiencing pain or discomfort. Dr Sethi warns against this reactive approach. Regular dental check-ups, ideally twice a year, help detect early signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral problems.

Early treatment of oral conditions can reduce the risk of bacteria spreading to the heart. This preventive care approach supports overall health and lowers the chances of unexpected complications.

Oral Hygiene as Part of a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining oral health should be considered part of a broader heart-healthy lifestyle. Just as diet and exercise are critical to cardiovascular wellness, so is consistent oral care.

Dr Sethi recommends combining daily brushing and flossing with a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking. These combined steps strengthen both oral and cardiovascular systems.

Public Awareness and the Need for Education

Despite strong evidence linking oral hygiene to heart health, public awareness remains limited. Many view dental care as secondary compared to other health concerns. Dr Sethi believes that public education campaigns should address this gap.

Teaching children about the importance of brushing twice daily can establish habits that last a lifetime. Schools, community programs, and healthcare providers all have a role in promoting this message.

The Small Habit with Big Benefits

Brushing at night may seem like a small effort, but its benefits are far-reaching. It prevents harmful bacteria from multiplying, reduces inflammation risk, and supports cardiovascular health.

Dr Sethi’s warning is clear: oral hygiene should never be underestimated. Brushing twice daily, along with regular dental visits, is among the most effective ways to maintain a healthy heart and a healthy smile.

The relationship between oral health and heart health is well established in scientific literature. Avoiding night brushing allows harmful bacteria to flourish, potentially leading to serious cardiovascular conditions.

By adopting the simple habit of brushing twice daily and prioritising dental care, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease. This preventive approach costs little but offers lasting benefits for both oral and overall health.