It sounds dramatic, but dental experts say it’s true: an old, ineffective toothbrush could contribute to heart disease. The same chronic gum inflammation that causes bleeding gums can also lead to the stiffening and narrowing of your arteries, a dangerous condition called atherosclerosis.
A chief clinical officer explains that your toothbrush is a primary defense against this. When you brush, you interrupt a biological chain reaction that starts in the mouth. Germs and inflammatory molecules can travel from infected gums, through the bloodstream, and directly to the heart.
This constant battle against oral infection wears down the body’s defenses. When bacteria from the mouth—of which there are 700 species—are allowed to multiply, they form plaque. This plaque triggers an inflammatory response that doesn’t just stay in the mouth; it becomes a body-wide problem.
This systemic inflammation also impacts other conditions, like diabetes. Oral health and diabetes have a two-way connection. High blood sugar weakens the gums, and gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control. Your toothbrush is a key tool in managing this risk.
To protect your heart, the advice is clear. Change your toothbrush every three months. Old, frayed bristles can’t clean effectively and can harbor germs, allowing bacteria to grow and restart the inflammatory cycle. This simple habit, plus flossing, is a vital step in protecting your cardiovascular health.