Research suggests a strong link between plaque on your teeth and heart disease. The plaque harbors bacteria, and many medical experts believe that when the bacteria enter your bloodstream, they help form blood clots in your coronary arteries, which can cause heart attacks. Or the bacteria in the mouth may weaken your immune system and cause chronic inflamation throughout the entire body-including the coronary arteries. This inflammation in turn contributes to hardening of the arteries.

Another reason to keep your mouth healthy: Recent research has also shown that chronic low-grade oral infections are linked to premature deliveries and lower birth weight in newborns.

So you have more good reasons to practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly.