You brush, you floss, and you see your dentist… so you’ve mastered the basics! But did you know that your mouth can hold some surprising secrets about your overall health?
This is one of the biggest surprises for many! Chronic gum disease (periodontitis) is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The theory is that the inflammation caused by gum disease allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream, which can then travel to the arteries and potentially contribute to conditions like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Taking care of your gums is literally a way to take care of your heart!
While sugary gum is definitely off the table, chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can be beneficial. The act of chewing stimulates saliva flow, which is your body’s natural defense against acid. Saliva helps wash away food particles, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria, and brings minerals to your teeth to strengthen enamel. Just make sure it contains Xylitol, a natural sweetener that can inhibit cavity-causing bacteria.
You diligently brush your teeth, but how often do you clean your tongue? Your tongue has tiny grooves and bumps that can trap bacteria, dead skin cells, and food particles, leading to bad breath. Using a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush to gently clean your tongue once a day is an essential step for fresh breath that many people overlook!
Many people think a vigorous scrub is necessary for clean teeth, but aggressive brushing can actually be harmful. Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down your tooth enamel and cause your gums to recede, exposing the sensitive tooth roots. The best practice: Use a soft-bristled brush and a gentle, circular motion. If the bristles on your brush look smashed or splayed out, you are likely brushing too hard!
Saliva is crucial for washing away food debris and maintaining a balanced pH level in your mouth. However, your saliva production dramatically decreases while you sleep. This is why dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common morning complaint and why the risk of bacteria and acid attacks is higher overnight. It underscores the importance of a thorough brush and floss right before bed to minimize the work your sleeping mouth has to do!