People who are interested in getting London cosmetic dentistry may be interested to hear about the importance of maintaining healthy gums.
Researchers have claimed that gum disease can lead to a number of illnesses including cancer if left untreated.
Dr Steven Weiner, a dentist based in Ontario, has urged people to act if their gums show any sign of weakness, the Toronto Sun reports.
Health conditions such as diabetes, premature birth, stroke and certain cancers – including pancreatic – have all been linked to poor oral hygiene.
Unhealthy gums can also lead to rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and heart disease.
Dr Weiner said: "Normally, healthy gums protect us from the bad effects of that bacteria. In poor oral health, the bacteria go ahead and multiply, causing an inflammation of the gums."
Meanwhile, health website eHow suggests visiting the dentist regularly as well as brushing teeth for two minutes twice daily to keep gums healthy. 