Daily Mail - How to live longer: One surprising tip to extend your lifespan

..........A study, published in the Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology journal, investigated the link between tooth loss and mortality.

It revealed the number of teeth a person has is significantly correlated to their life expectancy.

Results found those with 20 teeth or more at the age of 70 had a considerably higher chance of living longer than those with less than 20 teeth.

According to Dr Nigel Carter OBE, Chief Executive of oral health charity the British Dental Health Foundation, a healthy mouth is a useful barometer for the overall health of the body.

He explained: "Oral health indicators such as gum disease have regularly been linked to a wide range of general health problems such as heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, dementia and problems during pregnancy.

"Many oral health diseases (such as gum disease) are entirely preventable and are caused by poor oral hygiene. By taking good care of our teeth, not only will our mouth benefit but the positive changes will be felt by the entire body."

According to the medical body Mayo Clinic, oral health may contribute to various diseases and conditions, including:

Endocarditis

This infection of the inner lining of your heart chambers or valves (endocardium) typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to certain areas in your heart.

Cardiovascular disease

Although the connection is not fully understood, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.

Pregnancy and birth complications

Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.

Pneumonia

Certain bacteria in your mouth can be pulled into your lungs, causing pneumonia and other respiratory diseases.

The medical site also suggests certain conditions could pose a risk to your oral health, including:

Diabetes

By reducing the body's resistance to infection, diabetes puts your gums at risk. Gum disease appears to be more frequent and severe among people who have diabetes.

Research shows that people who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar levels. Regular periodontal care can improve diabetes control.

HIV/AIDS

Oral problems, such as painful mucosal lesions, are common in people who have HIV/AIDS.

Osteoporosis

This bone-weakening disease is linked with periodontal bone loss and tooth loss. Certain drugs used to treat osteoporosis carry a small risk of damage to the bones of the jaw.

Alzheimer's disease

Worsening oral health is seen as Alzheimer's disease progresses.