Oral health is extremely important and sometimes problems in the mouth can affect the rest of the body.  Your mouth teems with bacteria and is also the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.  Normally the body’s natural defenses and dood oral health care, such as brushing and flossing keep bacteria under control, however without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.  Studies show that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some cardiovascular disease if the bacteria associated with gum disease spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.