8 common habits that could shorten your life

Gum disease decreases life expectancy

8. Putting oral hygiene last

Multiple studies have connected gum disease with cancer, diabetes and kidney disease. Yet our oral health tends to be last on the list when we’re trying to avoid diseases that will steal years from our life expectancy.

Gum disease and lung disease are connected as well, possibly through mouth bacteria that make their way into the lungs.

Here are a dozen ways to keep your gums healthy so gum disease doesn’t shorten your life.

Read: 6 steps for fighting gum disease naturally

Joyce Hollman

By Joyce Hollman

Joyce Hollman is a writer based in Kennebunk, Maine, specializing in the medical/healthcare and natural/alternative health space. Health challenges of her own led Joyce on a journey to discover ways to feel better through organic living, utilizing natural health strategies. Now, practicing yoga and meditation, and working towards living in a chemical-free home, her experiences make her the perfect conduit to help others live and feel better naturally.

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