We all know that it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Not only does it help to keep your breath fresh, but it helps prevent tooth decay -- allowing you to keep your teeth longer. Now, there is a new reason to add to the list. Researchers at Yale University School of Medicine report that taking good care of your teeth may even help reduce the risk of pneumonia.



This news is particularly noteworthy for elders and seniors who are at increased risk of developing pneumonia; these individuals may be able to reduce their risk of developing  pneumonia by keeping the bacteria in their mouth low.

Scientists of the study note that just brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes coupled with flossing in between teeth every day, cutting down on sugary foods and beverages, and going to the dentist regularly is a good beginning point to reduce the risk of pneumonia.



Some other experts in the health field report that bacterial chest infections may be caused by breathing contents from the mouth into the throat and lungs, thereby increasing the chance of developing pneumonia.



The study was conducted by following 37 participants for a period of a month. Those patients who developed pneumonia and were on ventilators had shown a shift in their bacteria in thier months.

This most recent study isn't the first to associate oral health with respiratory disease, but it is clear more research is needed in this area -- especially since serious cases of pneumonia may result in death.