Wellness Wednesday – Oral Health Affects More Than Your Mouth
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By Ed Lippie, founder and CEO, Momentum Wellness
I recently had my biannual dentist appointment and thought it marked a good opportunity to revisit the importance of oral health and its impact on health and well-being.
What should you know?
- It only takes two weeks of poor oral hygiene for periodontal disease to start to develop
- Periodontal disease is inflammation of gum tissue that negatively impacts overall health, specifically heart and brain health
- The buildup of gram-negative bacterial microbes specifically, Trepademia dent cholla, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia, can contribute to increased levels of amyloid and tau deposits in the body and brain. These bacteria may also play a role in peripheral inflammation
- Based on autopsy reporting, there is reason to believe oral bacteria can migrate to the brain via cranial nerves, creating higher susceptibility for mild cognitive impairment, as well as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- If your gums bleed or get very sensitive while flossing, you’ve reached some stage of periodontal disease
- The saliva in your mouth initiates the digestive process and is the starting point of your gut microbiome
- At home teeth-whitening products often negatively impact gum tissue, teeth whitening should be done professionally if you choose to do it
- Brushing your teeth is the mechanical and temporary removal of plaque, but plaque can begin forming within two hours of brushing, making brushing three times per day the ideal brushing frequency
What To Do For Good Oral Health
Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. To ensure a healthy smile, it’s crucial to establish effective oral hygiene practices. Here are some key recommendations:
Brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably after meals. Each brushing session should last at least two minutes. For optimal oral care, consider brushing three times a day. To remove bacteria from between teeth and along the gum line, floss or use small dental brushes. Electric toothbrushes can be particularly beneficial, especially for nighttime brushing.
Don’t forget to clean your tongue. Using a tongue scraper or toothbrush can help eliminate bacteria and freshen your breath. To prevent dry mouth and wash away food debris, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
The Right Amount Of Fluoride
Fluoride is a vital component of toothpaste. While its use has been debated online, research supports its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay. The appropriate fluoride concentration varies with age. Children aged 0-3 should use toothpaste containing 1,000 parts per million (ppm) of fluoride. For children aged 3-6, the recommended concentration is 1,000-1,250 ppm. Children 6 and older, as well as adults, should use toothpaste with 1,350-1,500 ppm of fluoride.
To maximize fluoride retention, avoid rinsing your mouth with water immediately after brushing. Instead, consider keeping a glass of water next to your toothbrush and drinking it before brushing in the morning.
What Mouthwash Can Do
While mouthwash can be helpful, consider using it in moderation. Antiseptic mouthwash can kill both good and bad bacteria, potentially contributing to dry mouth and disrupting the balance of your gut microbiome.
To prevent bacterial growth on your toothbrush, wash it once a week with natural soap and hot water. Dry it with a hand towel, as bacteria thrive in damp conditions.
If you use retainers, Invisalign, or other oral appliances, clean them thoroughly to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Keep your toothbrush, tongue scraper, retainers, and other oral care items away from flushing toilets to minimize the risk of contamination.
Limit The Sweet Stuff
Reducing your consumption of sugar and artificial sweeteners, especially those found in soft drinks, is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Incorporate foods rich in calcium and protein into your diet to support strong teeth and enamel. Additionally, consuming foods high in fiber and water content can help keep your teeth clean, gums healthy, and saliva production stimulated.
Seems like a lot? I get it, the ideal oral health routine seems a little extra, but like most things in the wellness realm, if you do 80 per cent of the ideal, you’ll be doing great! Just remember, our bodies are elaborate operating systems that require balance to function optimally, and our oral health is a vital part of that holistic system.
As always, let me know if you have any specific questions or concerns.
Have a healthy day!
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