Mayo Clinic on Nutrition Whole-Body Care, Starting With a Smile
Jan 13, 2026
Dentist Alex Silvia, who specializes in nutrition and gum disease, highlights the shocking prevalence of gum disease in adults. He explains its links to over 50 systemic conditions, including diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Discover how oral bacteria can affect lung health and increase risks for heart issues. Alex shares practical tips on maintaining gum health, the importance of certain nutrients, and delves into the benefits of nasal breathing. He also emphasizes the role of the mouth as a gateway to overall health, making oral hygiene essential.
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Gum Bacteria Can Be Shared Between People
- Periodontal bacteria are transmissible between family members and partners, which can re-inoculate treated patients.
- Treating one partner without addressing the other's bacteria may allow reinfection.
Mouth Breathing Raises Oral Risk
- Mouth breathing dries the mouth, reduces saliva protection, and increases risk of cavities and gum inflammation.
- Weight gain can narrow airways and promote mouth breathing, compounding oral disease risk.
Encourage Nasal Breathing At Night
- Consider nasal breathing and, for some people, mouth taping at night to reduce oral dryness and bacterial growth.
- Use nasal breathing to harness nitric oxide benefits and protect saliva function.
