A study done by the Yale University School of Medicine showed that elderly people who do not brush their teeth regularly are at an increased risk for pneumonia. Dr. Samit Joshi, who is a professor at the school stated that the bacteria in the  mouth can cause diseases of lungs.

Pneumonia is a condition that affects about 620,000 people in the United Kingdom. Approximately 5 percent of the people affected die as a result of this condition.

It is important to note that more research is needed to be done to determine the exact relationship between pneumonia and oral health. However, it is not the first time that the diseases have been linked together.

People have associated poor oral health with respiratory diseases for several years. Many believe that bacteria chest infections are caused by breathing the droplets from the mouth and the throat into the lungs.

This can not only worsen an existing infection, but it can also cause pneumonia. Studies have also shown that people who have periodontal gum disease  also have a higher mortality rate. Elderly and young people are at the greatest risk according to Dr. Nigel Carter, who is the chief executive for the British Dental Foundation.

Dr. Carter stated that people more susceptible to coughs, chesty viruses and colds during the winter because of the drop in temperature. He also stated that it is very easy to prevent gum problems. He recommends brushing for at least two minutes ever single day and flossing once a day. He also recommends that people reduce their intake of sugary beverages and foods and visit their dentist on a regular basis. Bad breath, loose teeth and bleeding gums are some of the signs of gum disease. If those symptoms persist, people should see their dentists for gum disease and treatment