Probiotics for oral health!

10 years ago | Nutrition

By pH health care professionals

Oral hygiene is not just an issue of beauty and having a great smile. In fact, your oral health affects many areas of your health. For example, according to Mayo Clinic, some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke may be linked to inflammation and infections caused by oral bacteria. Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight, and gum disease seems to be more prevalent and severe in people with diabetes.

It’s been said that the mouth is the gateway to the rest of your health, so it’s important to be proactive with your oral hygiene.

So what do probiotics have to do with good oral health?

You have heard that you should limit or minimize bad oral bacteria by following your dentist’s recommendations for cleanings and hygiene routines, including brushing your teeth, flossing and using a good mouthwash. But it is equally important to promote the healthy kind of bacteria, which can be encouraged by using a toothpaste with probiotics. Research on the subject of probiotics for oral health is still in its infancy, and further research is needed. However, recent research has suggested potential applications for probiotics to be useful in preventing and treating oral infections, including dental caries, periodontal disease and halitosis (bad breath). The idea is that probiotics will help facilitate a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth, thereby helping maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Of course, don’t forget the basics for good oral health!

Form good brushing habits. Brush teeth twice daily, and change toothbrushes in regular intervals. Preferably use soft tooth brushes and avoid excessive or harsh brushing because it can lead to gum deterioration. Try toothbrushes which monitors and tracks brushing behavior in an app.

Don’t skip the dentist. Schedule a dental cleaning at least every 6 months. Be proactive and bring up any questions or concerns at your visit.

Rinse naturally. Use alcohol-free mouth washes. Alcohol may interfere with regular healthy oral bacteria and damage the gums and soft tissue of the mouth over time.

Limit sugar intake. Sugar can contribute to plaque and unhealthy bacteria overgrowth.

Don’t smoke. It deteriorates tooth and gum health.

Enjoy Your Healthy Life!

The pH professional health care team includes recognized experts from a variety of health care and related disciplines, including physicians, attorneys, nutritionists, nurses and certified fitness instructors. This team also includes the members of the pH Medical Advisory Board, which constantly monitors all pH programs, products and services. To learn more about the pH Medical Advisory Board, click here.