The Link Between Dementia and Brushing Your Teeth

VGstockstudio/ShutterstockFeeling lazy about brushing? Here’s a great reason to show your smile some love: A study from the University of Southern California found that people who reported not brushing their teeth daily had a 22 to 65 percent greater risk of dementia than those who brushed three times a day. The connection between your gums and your grey matter probably has something to do with a process that Brett Finlay, co-author of Let Them Eat Dirt, refers to as “inflammaging,” a chronic low-grade activation of the immune system that takes a toll on your body. When harmful bacteria colonize your gums, their inflammatory byproducts seep through the gums and into your body, where all that inflammation can lead to dementia and heart disease.

Brushing on a regular basis could help prevent this micro-level mayhem. These are the three manual toothbrushes we’re loving right now. If you want your toothbrush to do the work for you, check out the best electric toothbrushes, according to dentists.

Smile with confidence

via amazon.comPlaque won’t stand a chance against this toothbrush, which features feathered bristle tips that gently cleans your pearly whites.

Oral-B Pro-Health Compact Clean Toothbrush, $21 for two at Amazon

Perfectly polished

via amazon.comIf you’re looking for a naturally whiter smile, this is the toothbrush for you. This whitening toothbrush has special spiral bristles that are designed to polish teeth and remove stains for a healthier, happier smile.