Is Your Oral Microbiome Healthy?
Research indicates that the health of your oral microbiome is closely linked to your overall health. Here are a few ways to keep your important oral bacteria healthy and thriving…
Many people don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their oral health, but interestingly enough, your oral health is a great predictor of your overall health and longevity. Your mouth is actually a great reflection of the health of your entire body, and dental problems can be a sign that there is trouble ahead. In fact, poor dental health has been linked to everything from gum disease and oral cancer, to Alzheimer’s and even heart disease.
As we are discovering, so much of our health depends on a healthy microbial population within our bodies. The mouth is especially full of complex microorganisms whose health is closely linked to our own. These microbes perform many important functions, from pre-digesting our food, to protecting the health of our teeth and gums, to guarding against pathogens, supporting our immune system, controlling inflammation, and more. However, when your oral microbiome is thrown out of balance (by any number of things, including illness, antibiotic use, unhealthy eating habits, smoking, or even stress), an unhealthy oral environment can result, triggering negative health consequences throughout the body.
The good news is, there are a number of things that you can do to maintain a healthy oral microbiome. According to Well.org:
The following measures not only keep your teeth healthy but can prevent major health problems:
- Regular dental check ups
- Brushing teeth (preferably with a fluoride-free toothpaste)
- Flossing
- Mouth rinses
- Oral probiotics
Modifying lifestyle factors such as food choices, good oral hygiene and stress free living may help reestablish a health-promoting oral microbiome. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the following modifiable factors for oral and general health.
- Eat right
Diet has a huge impact on tooth decay and gum diseases. It is ideal to have a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet consisting of vegetables, fruit, grains and lean protein foods.- Lower the acidity
Reduce the amount and frequency of high-acid foods and sugary foods and drinks (the primary causes of tooth decay and damage.)- Avoid tobacco and alcohol
These can interrupt the natural balance of our oral microbiome.- Use Natural Oral Care Products.
Using natural products free of harmful chemicals will keep your mouth fresh, clean, and healthy. Learn more about how natural products and conscious companies are leading the way to a healthier planet and a healthier you!Restore your Mouth’s Equilibrium
Your mouth reflects your overall health status. It is believed that disrupting the normal composition and function of the microbiome can have significant consequences for human health. Dental diseases are as important as any other disease, after all teeth are an essential part of your body. Because oral disease significantly impacts quality of life when it interferes with eating, nutrition, self-esteem and health, remember to keep the mouth healthy for as long as possible. We need to create the right environment so the microbiome can effectively balance, restore and replenish itself…
Read more at Well.org…
