People who do not brush their teeth twice every day are putting themselves at risk of heart disease, according to new research.

Those with poor oral hygiene have a 70% increased risk of heart disease compare to those who brush twice a day, according to the Scottish study of more than 11,000 adults.

The study published in the British Medical Journal study backs previous work showing a link between gum disease and heart problems.

Previous studies have shown that inflammation anywhere in the body can contribute to the build up of clogged arteries, which can result in a heart attack.

However this is the first time researchers have studies the link between frequency of brushing and its links to the risk of developing heart disease.

Participants’ lifestyles, including eating, smoking and exercise levels were analysed and data was collected on how often they visited the dentist and how often they brushed their teeth.

Seven out of ten surveyed said they brushed their teeth twice a day with six out of ten claiming to visit the dentist every six months.

There were 555 "cardiovascular events" such as heart attacks, during the eight-year study - 170 of which were fatal.

Researchers found that taking into account lifestyle differentials those who brushed twice a day were at a lower risk.

IN DETAIL

• Read the full BMJ article