A New Risk Factor for Heart Disease. Are you worried about heart disease? If so, new studies report that heart disease is linked to the bacteria in the mouth. If you avoid spreading germs in your mouth to your heart, you reduce your risk of heart disease. You can also lower the risk of strokes.

 Researchers didn't go so far as to say what many believe, which is that heart disease is from infection and not from diet or exercise issues. But they did confirm that tooth health is a risk factor in cardiovascular disease. For years, we have known periodontal disease and tooth decay are associated with coronary artery disease. These new studies confirm the old data, and even suggest mechanisms for heart disease. One group from New Zealand showed how mouth bacteria lead to arteriosclerosis. When I see this sort of common-sense science, I know we're on the right track to curing disease.

Be sure and brush your teeth and be careful when you floss.