Brushing teeth at night and its link with heart attacks: 3 things to know

 A recent Japanese study suggests that skipping nighttime teeth brushing may increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Oral bacteria can multiply overnight due to reduced saliva flow, potentially entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation. While not a direct cause, good oral hygiene, especially at night, correlates with better health outcomes, including fewer cardiac events. A recent Japanese study suggests that skipping nighttime teeth brushing may increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Oral bacteria can multiply overnight due to reduced saliva flow, potentially entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation. While not a direct cause, good oral hygiene, especially at night, correlates with better health outcomes, including fewer cardiac events.