What defines oral health?

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums involves proper brushing, flossing, and limiting your refined sugar intake. Nutritional deficiencies must also be avoided through a good amount of nutrient dense foods and supplements.

Dental and oral health is an essential part of your overall health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene has also been linked to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Symptoms of dental and oral problems

Ulcers, sores, or tender areas in the mouth that won’t heal after a week or two

Bleeding or swollen gums after brushing or flossing

Chronic bad breath

Sudden sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or beverages

Pain or toothache

Loose teeth

Receding gums

Pain with chewing or biting

Swelling of the face and cheek

Clicking of the jaw

Cracked or broken teeth

Frequent dry mouth

Please note: If any of these symptoms are accompanied by a high fever and facial or neck swelling, you should seek emergency medical treatment. Learn more about the warning signs of oral health issues.

There are many factors that contribute to gingivitis and periodontitis, including:

Smoking

Poor brushing habits

Frequent snacking on sugary foods and drinks

Diabetes

Use of certain medications (that reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth)

Family history, or genetics

Certain infections, such as HIV or AIDS

Hormonal changes in women

Acid reflux, or heartburn

Frequent vomiting (due to the acid)

Supplements for gum health and gum disease:

Vitamin C: This vitamin is responsible for the production of the structural protein called collagen, which is an important part of your gums. Deficiency can result in inflamed gums. Vitamin C 250mg Multi-Ascorbate Complex (Non Acidic)

Omega 3: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, making them effective for addressing the periodontal disease. Life & Soul Omega 3 Fish Oil Liquid (150ml)

Probiotics: many forms of probiotics support gut health. The probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri, in particular, has been seen to have benefits in oral health. Synerbio Daily Probiotic

Vitamin D: is required for the maintenance of musculoskeletal and the immune systems. Liquid Vitamin D3 (1000IU per drop)

Zinc: This mineral is essential for maintaining healthy gums. Zinc 30mg

CoQ10: CoQ10 has powerful antioxidant, protective and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that taking CoQ10 may be helpful for those with gum disease, as well as reducing heart health complications. Coq10 (30mg)

What are common dental health issues?

Cavities

Cavities are areas of the tooth that have been damaged and may even have some erosion. Cavities are fairly common. They occur when bacteria, food, and acid coat your teeth and form a plaque Over time, this leads to permanent damage.

Gum disease (gingivitis)

Gum disease, also called gingivitis, is inflammation of the gums. It’s usually the result of plaque building up on your teeth due to poor brushing and flossing habits.

Periodontitis

As periodontitis progresses, the infection can spread to your jaw and bones. It can also cause an inflammatory response throughout the body.

Cracked or broken teeth

A tooth can crack or break from an injury to the mouth, chewing hard foods, or grinding the teeth at night. You should visit your dentist right away if you’ve cracked or broken a tooth.

Sensitive teeth

If your teeth are sensitive, you might feel pain or discomfort after having cold or hot foods or beverages.

Tooth sensitivity is also referred to as “dentin hypersensitivity.” It sometimes occurs temporarily after having a root canal or a filling.

There are specific brands of toothpaste and mouthwash for people with sensitive teeth.

Shop for toothpaste and mouthwash made for people with sensitive teeth.

The link between oral and general health

Researchers have discovered a connection between declining oral health and underlying conditions in other areas of the body. A healthy mouth can help maintain a healthy body. Oral bacteria and inflammation may be associated with:

• heart disease
• endocarditis, or inflammation of the lining of the heart
• premature birth
• low birth weight

This is because bacteria can spread from your oral cavity to your bloodstream, causing infective endocarditis. Infective endocarditis is a life-threatening infection of your heart valves.

A note on probiotics:

Probiotics are mostly known for their role in digestive health. However, new research indicates that healthy bacteria may be beneficial for your teeth and gums also.

The mouth is included as part of the digestive system, therefore it is understandable that oral health is directly impacted by the health of the gut. Probiotics have been shown to prevent plaque and treat bad breath. They also help to prevent oral cancers and decrease inflammation from gum disease.

Take a probiotic supplement or eat foods high in beneficial bacteria, such as yoghurt, kefir, and kimchi. Other popular probiotic foods include sauerkraut, tempeh, and miso.

Daily Tips for Oral health:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day

Floss at least once a day (one of the most beneficial things you can do to prevent disease in your oral cavity)

Have your teeth cleaned by a dental professional every six months

Avoid tobacco products

Follow a high-fibre, low-fat, low-sugar diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables

Limit sugary snacks and drinks

Watch out for hidden sugars:

Condiments such as ketchup and barbecue sauce

Sliced fruit or applesauce in cans or jars that have added sugars

Sweetened yogurt

Sauces

juice or juice blends

granola and cereal bars

Menopause and oral health:

During menopause, lower amounts of oestrogen can increase your oral health issues.

A note on diabetes:

Diabetes affects the body’s ability to fight off bacteria, so people with diabetes have a higher risk of having oral infections, gum disease, and periodontitis. They’re at an increased risk of an oral fungal infection called thrush.