Mouth is the gateway to your body. Just like how food enter your stomach through your mouth, bacteria can also enter your system via mouth. What are the problems these bacteria are capable of producing? Read on! Infected gingiva- a reservoir of bacteria! In individuals with periodontitis, bacteria and bacterial toxins have access to circulation (blood). Your body is constantly fighting these bacteria to prevent them from causing systemic infection. To remind you, periodontitis is the extension of the gum disease (gingivitis),which is left untreated for a long time. Can poor oral hygiene affect your heart? Your brain? Yes. And yes! As mentioned above, bacteria from an infected periodontium constantly try to enter your blood stream. Daily activities like brushing and chewing food hastens this process. ...