Complete Guide to Oral Health and the Oral Microbiome
Oral health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, with the oral microbiome being a key component in maintaining a healthy mouth and body. This guide explains what the oral microbiome is, how diet impacts it, and the connection between oral health and general health. Plus, discover a recommended daily oral hygiene routine for maintaining strong, healthy teeth and gums.
What is the Oral Microbiome? Understanding Good and Bad Bacteria in Your Mouth
The oral microbiome is the collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in our mouths. Many of these bacteria are beneficial, working to keep harmful microbes in check and supporting the health of our teeth and gums. However, an imbalance in these bacteria can lead to oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Why a Balanced Oral Microbiome Matters for Your Dental Health
Maintaining a balanced oral microbiome is essential for protecting your teeth and gums. Beneficial bacteria help control the levels of harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of dental decay and gum inflammation. A balanced microbiome can also help reduce bad breath and supports your immune system in fighting off infections.
How Diet Impacts Your Oral Microbiome and Dental Health
The foods we consume directly impact the balance of bacteria in the mouth. From sugars to highly processed foods, diet plays a significant role in supporting or disrupting oral health. Let’s break down how various foods affect your microbiome and what to include for optimal oral health.
The Role of Sugar in Oral Health: How Sugary Foods Harm Your Teeth and Gums
Sugary foods and drinks are among the biggest culprits in causing oral health problems. When you consume sugar, it interacts with harmful bacteria in the mouth to produce acid. This acid wears away at tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, which leads to cavities and decay over time. Limiting sugar intake, especially from soda, candy, and processed snacks, is one of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy mouth.
Foods that Support Oral Health and a Balanced Microbiome
Whole, nutrient-dense foods support a balanced oral microbiome. Fresh vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, nuts, and dairy contain essential vitamins and minerals that nourish gums and strengthen teeth. Fiber-rich foods like apples, carrots, and leafy greens can also help naturally clean the teeth, while calcium-rich foods support strong enamel.
Processed Foods and Artificial Sweeteners: Their Impact on Your Oral Microbiome
Processed foods and artificial sweeteners can disrupt the microbiome by promoting the growth of harmful bacteria. These foods often contain preservatives, chemicals, and high sugar levels, all of which can lead to an imbalance. Choosing whole foods over processed options helps maintain a healthier oral environment.
The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Body Health
Good oral health is linked to more than just a great smile; it affects your entire body. Studies have shown that oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even certain cancers. By keeping your mouth clean and healthy, you’re also supporting the health of your heart, lungs, and immune system.
How Oral Health Affects Heart Health and More
Harmful bacteria in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, potentially leading to inflammation in the arteries and increasing the risk of heart disease. Oral health also affects diabetes management, as gum disease can make blood sugar levels harder to control. Prioritizing oral care can improve overall health, especially for those with existing health conditions.
Healthy Oral Hygiene Routine for Maintaining Optimal Dental Health
Follow these daily steps to ensure a healthy mouth and balanced oral microbiome. Each step is designed to prevent bacteria buildup, reduce the risk of decay, and support overall health.
Complete Daily Oral Care Routine for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Floss and Use Toothpicks for Hard-to-Reach Areas
Task: Gently floss or use toothpicks to clean between teeth. We recommend Smart Floss it is PTFE/BPA free and has been shown to remove up to 55% more plaque than some of the most popular flosses.
Flossing removes food particles and bacteria from between the teeth that brushing alone cannot reach. Regular flossing prevents plaque buildup, which can lead to gum disease.
Irrigate with an Oral Irrigator aka. Water Flosser and Oral Cleansing Concentrate
Task: Use an oral irrigator, to further clean between teeth, targeting the gum line. To boost the effectivness of your oral irrigator we recommend adding 2 pumps of PerioScript® Oral Cleansing Concentrate to 10 oz of warm water in the Irrigators reservoir.
An oral irrigator, such as a WaterPik, reaches deep into gum pockets to flush out bacteria and biofilm that brushing and flossing miss. PerioScript® Oral Cleansing Concentrate is an herbal solution that provides a natural cleaning effect and supports gum health.
Brush with an Electric Toothbrush and Recommended Toothpaste (e.g., Rotadent and PerioPaste®)
Task: Use an electric toothbrush (like Rotadent) with PerioPaste® for 2-3 minutes, focusing on the gum line.
Brushing thoroughly with an electric toothbrush helps remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria from teeth and gum lines. Using a toothpaste like PerioPaste® with natural ingredients supports gum health and protects enamel without harsh chemicals. PerioPaste® is a fluoride-free, preservative-free, and sodium-lauryl-sulfate-free toothpaste. It promotes healthy teeth and gums by offering more than other “natural” toothpastes.
Use a Tongue Scraper
Task: Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue (2-3 scrapes).
Scraping the tongue removes bacteria that can cause bad breath and disrupt a balanced microbiome. A tongue scraper is more effective than simply brushing the tongue and promotes fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
Rinse with Alcohol-Free PerioClear® Mouthwash
Task: Rinse with PerioClear® Mouthwash (1-3 capfuls) for 30-60 seconds.
This mouthwash provides a final rinse to remove lingering bacteria without the drying effects of alcohol. Its essential oils and herbal blend soothe gums and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Optional: Oil Pulling
Task: Swish high-quality coconut oil in the mouth for additional detox benefits (antibacterial, antifungal, reduces plaque).
Oil pulling binds harmful bacteria and toxins in the mouth, aiding in their removal and reducing plaque buildup. This ancient practice supports oral hygiene and can enhance the body’s detoxification process, promoting overall health.
Keep your toothbrush clean!
Soak Toothbrushes in 3% Hydrogen Peroxide
Task: Soak in 3% hydrogen peroxide for a couple of minutes daily to kill germs.
Soaking the toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide disinfects it, eliminating bacteria that may linger and multiply on bristles. Regular disinfection prevents bacteria transfer back to the mouth, supporting a cleaner daily routine.
By following these steps and understanding how diet impacts your oral microbiome, you can maintain a healthy mouth and support your overall wellness.