Did you brush and floss your teeth? Moms and dads around the world have spoken these words routinely, and their benefits extend far beyond a bright smile. Most people understand that proper care of their teeth will prevent cavities, gum disease, and expensive dental work, however dental disease is not the only consequence of poor oral hygiene. Beyond the obvious results of difficulty maintaining a nutritious diet without strong and healthy teeth, poor oral health can result in serious infections of the gums, facial structures, orbits of the eye, head, neck and the surrounding bones. In addition, infections of artificial joints, inflammation of the heart and its valves, and cardiovascular disease that can lead to heart attacks and strokes can all be consequences of untreated gum disease.