People who need emergency dentistry may be reassured by the fact that good oral hygiene can have a positive effect on overall health.
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums through adopting an effective hygiene routine can help the body resist disease as well as promote healing.
Eating a healthy nutritional diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables makes teeth and gums stronger and therefore increases the body's immunity.
This is echoed by Simcoe Muskoka's medical officer of health Dr Charles Gardner who advises people to chew sugar-free gum after meals to improve oral health.
High amounts of bacteria in the mouth have been linked to diabetes and pneumonia as well as heart disease and stroke.
Along with this, failing to brush teeth and floss regularly could lead to dental decay which can result in infection and serious pain if left untreated.
This news comes after Japanese scientists found a link between poor oral hygiene and increased risks of stroke.
Scientists recommended flossing as a method of improving the conditions of teeth and gums as well as avoiding wider health risks. 