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A doctor has sounded the alarm about a daily routine that could shield you from various health problems. The expert warns that neglecting this habit could heighten your risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's.

Most of us are aware that we should brush our teeth at least twice daily to maintain oral health, ward off decay, and prevent gum disease. However, you might not be aware of the broader health implications. In a video shared on his Instagram page, Doctor Amir Khanelaborated.

Dr Amir, known for his appearances on ITV, stated: "Here are five powerful ways your oral health can affect your overall health and why it really matters." He began by explaining that gum disease can have more extensive repercussions than one might anticipate.

He said: "Now gum disease is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by bacteria building up under the gum line. These bacteria trigger your immune system, releasing inflammatory cytokines that don't just stay in the mouth.

"They spill into the bloodstream and that creates a state of low-grade widespread inflammation elsewhere in your body, which can drive many chronic diseases." One such disease is heart disease.

Dr Amir went on to say: "Those same bacteria involving gum disease can enter the bloodstream and attach to the inside lining of your blood vessels. This contributes to the narrowing of your arteries by promoting plaque formation and plaque instability.

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"Inflammation also makes plaques more likely to rupture, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes." Oral bacteria can also affect your brain health, even heightening your risk of developing dementia.

"Now, emerging research shows oral bacteria have been found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease," he revealed. "These bacteria may travel via the bloodstream or nerves triggering chronic inflammation in the brain and contributing to neurodegeneration over time.

"We need more work on that."

In addition to these warnings, Dr Amir highlighted that gum disease is closely associated with diabetes. He explained: "Diabetes can often be spotted in the mouth first.

"Now there is a two-way relationship here. High blood sugar weakens the immune response, making gum infections more likely and more severe.

"But in turn, gum disease increases inflammation and worsens insulin resistance, making blood glucose harder to control. Dentists often spot early warning signs in the mouth, like persistent gum infections, dry mouth or even slow healing. "

He also warned that poor oral health could lead to complications during pregnancy and birth. "Poor oral health has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight," he stated.

"The theory is that inflammatory chemicals and bacteria from gum disease can reach the placenta, potentially triggering early labour or even affecting foetal growth."

Dr Amir advised: "So make sure you're brushing, flossing, and going for regular dental checks because it protects your heart, your brain, your metabolism, and even future pregnancies, not just your teeth."

To ward off gum disease, the NHS recommends:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day – spit after brushing, do not rinse
• Clean between your teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
• Change your toothbrush every one to three months
• Regularly visit a dentist and dental hygienist, especially if you're pregnant or have type 2 diabetes
• Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth
• Refrain from smoking