Research increasingly demonstrates that good oral hygiene is linked to reduced risk of serious conditions including Alzheimer’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis. At a recent annual American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference in Arizona, researchers presented evidence supporting the concept of the mouth as a “gateway to overall health,” highlighting that the oral cavity and body are deeply interconnected.
Panelists from medical schools across the U.S. discussed how the mouth was previously viewed as separate from the rest of the body. However, researchers now understand that the oral cavity can influence the health of other organs, including the joints, brain and gut. Alpdogan Kantarci, a professor at the University of Minnesota’s School of Dentistry, stated that “maintaining your teeth in health may be associated with a reduced risk of more than 50 systemic conditions.” He noted that “in people with mild or moderate diseases, those who are brushing and taking care of their teeth or seeing a dentist and having advanced cleanings are showing much better cognitive responses.”
Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease affecting the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, leads to “ongoing inflammation and progressive damage,” triggering immune responses and increasing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis and dementia. Research from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, published in The Lancet Health Longevity in 2024, concluded that oral health should be considered “an integral component of the overall healthcare system and an important factor in assessing aging.” A 2023 study in Neurology found that people with good dental hygiene had better memory, while gum disease and tooth loss were linked with less gray matter in the brain.
Dr. Michael J. Wei, DDS, recommends brushing three times a day to control the bacterial biofilm that fuels gum disease and chronic inflammation. “Inflammation in the mouth does not remain isolated—it can influence cardiovascular health, metabolic function and immune balance,” he explained. Experts recommend brushing twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure, though a third brushing is acceptable if done carefully. Aggressive brushing or hard-bristled toothbrushes can cause enamel wear, gum recession and tooth sensitivity.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://nypost.com/2026/02/21/health/this-simple-brushing-routine-could-lower-dementia-risk-dental-health-experts-say/