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Oral health is recognized as a crucial factor affecting overall health, influencing numerous bodily functions including brain longevity, cardiovascular health, hormone regulation, and fertility. Good oral hygiene contributes to a balanced oral microbiome, which is essential for preventing various health issues. Specific practices such as proper brushing and flossing techniques are emphasized as beneficial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Moreover, a thorough understanding of the interconnectedness of oral health and systemic health is essential for comprehensive well-being.
Common myths surrounding tooth care often lead to practices that may harm oral health rather than enhance it. For instance, the use of strong mouthwashes and certain toothpaste products containing alcohols and astringents can damage the delicate oral microbiome. A more effective approach involves reducing the use of harsh dental products and instead focusing on proper diet and lifestyle choices to supplement oral health. Understanding these myths and their implications is key to optimizing oral hygiene routines.
Proper brushing techniques are vital for maximizing oral health benefits. It's recommended to use a soft-bristle toothbrush and gentle circular motions to effectively clean teeth without causing damage. Timing is also important; brushing is most beneficial when done before sleep to minimize plaque buildup during the night. Importantly, it’s advised to wait at least 20-30 minutes after eating before brushing to prevent enamel wear caused by acidity.
Flossing plays a critical role in dental care by helping to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth where toothbrushes cannot reach. Regular flossing, ideally once a day, can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Incorporating floss picks or water flossers can make the process easier, particularly for individuals who struggle with traditional flossing methods. Establishing a consistent flossing routine can lead to better oral health outcomes.
Tongue scraping is an effective practice for improving oral hygiene and maximizing taste perception. This method removes the biofilm that accumulates on the tongue and can harbor bacteria, leading to bad breath and other oral issues. Regular tongue scraping can also stimulate the production of saliva, which is important for maintaining a balanced oral environment. Integrating this practice into daily oral care can have noticeable benefits for overall mouth health.
A diet rich in whole foods while minimizing processed sugars and carbohydrates is essential for maintaining oral health. Foods that are high in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, support the remineralization of teeth and help strengthen enamel. Reducing sugar intake prevents the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that contribute to cavities and gum disease. Adopting a balanced diet can lead to a substantial positive impact on both oral and overall health.
Adequate hydration is vital for promoting optimal oral health through enhanced saliva production. Saliva acts as a natural protector, neutralizing acids and supporting remineralization of teeth. Dehydration can lead to a variety of oral health problems, including dry mouth and increased risk of cavities. Maintaining proper fluid intake and considering electrolyte balance can significantly contribute to sustaining healthy saliva levels.
Fluoride's role in oral health has been widely discussed, given its potential benefits and controversies surrounding its use. While fluoride can aid in reducing cavities, the topic of systemic exposure through water fluoridation raises concerns regarding potential neurodevelopmental impacts, especially in children. Some individuals may prefer alternatives such as hydroxyapatite toothpaste as a safer option for maintaining dental health without the risks associated with fluoride. Ongoing research and dialogue around this issue emphasize the need for informed decision-making regarding dental care.
The health of the oral microbiome is directly linked to various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and fertility issues. Poor oral health can lead to increased inflammation and translocation of harmful bacteria into the bloodstream, affecting overall health. Maintaining good oral hygiene can potentially prevent complications associated with these conditions. A proactive approach to dental care can contribute significantly to reducing the risk of systemic health problems.
Professional pressures and stress levels experienced by dentists and dental health professionals can have a cascading effect on oral health practices. High rates of anxiety and depression are reported within the dental community, potentially affecting patient care. Addressing the mental health needs of dental professionals is essential for fostering a supportive environment that promotes effective patient outcomes. Cultivating awareness about the pressures faced in the field can enhance the overall quality of dental care.
Preventive dental care strategies are critical in reducing the incidence of dental decay and gum disease. Regular dental visits, coupled with a strong focus on oral hygiene, nutrition, and lifestyle choices, can make a significant difference. Utilizing technologies such as salivary analysis and oral microbiome testing can identify issues before they escalate. Empowering individuals with knowledge about their oral health paves the way for better decision-making and health outcomes.
My guest is Dr. Staci Whitman, DMD, a board-certified dentist for kids and adults. We discuss the critical importance of oral care and the oral microbiome for brain and bodily health. We examine the negative effects of common oral care product ingredients such as alcohol, astringents, and bleaches. We also explore the history and real impact of fluoridated drinking water on oral, bone, and systemic health.
Then we discuss healthy, lesser-known solutions for bad breath, canker sores, cavities, and teeth whitening. We cover how teeth can be made to repair their own cavities and the connection between oral health and cardiovascular health, male and female fertility, dementia, and cancer.
This episode goes far beyond the best approaches to brushing and flossing and will be a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their oral health and appearance at any age.
Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com.
AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman
Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman
BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/huberman
Joovv: https://joovv.com/huberman
Function: https://functionhealth.com/huberman
LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman
00:00:00 Dr. Staci Whitman
00:02:04 Oral Health & Oral Microbiome
00:05:01 Oral Healthcare Ingredients, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS); Canker Sores
00:08:45 Sponsors: Eight Sleep & BetterHelp
00:11:38 Cavities & Teeth De-/Remineralization, Fluoride
00:19:14 Cavities, Tool: Meal Frequency, Fasting
00:21:51 Sugar, “Dissolvable” Carbs & Cavities, Tools: Feed the Rainbow, Clean Diet
00:27:41 White Teeth, Bleaching, Hydroxyapatite, Mouth Breathing
00:34:34 Antibiotics, Gut & Oral Microbiome, Tool: Probiotics
00:36:20 Mouthwash, Alcohol, Astringents, Cardiovascular Risk, Bad Breath
00:39:54 Sponsors: AG1 & Joovv
00:42:21 Saliva, Dry Mouth, Salivary Analysis, Tools: Hydration; Nasal Breathing
00:47:23 Mouth vs. Nasal Breathing, Hard & Soft Tissue Issues
00:54:19 Deviated Septum, Therapies, Kids & Adults, Mouth Breathing & Sleep Disorders
01:00:42 Gum Health, Flossing; Sexual Health
01:01:50 Shifting to Nasal Breathing, Mouth Taping, Tools: 3-Minute Test, Kiss The Sky
01:05:53 Chewing Gum, Mastic Gum, Tool: Xylitol; Chewing Food, Breastfeeding
01:11:28 Sponsor: Function
01:13:15 Gum Disease, “Leaky Gums”, Cardiovascular Disease, Dementia, Cancer
01:20:05 Antibiotics, Ozone Therapy, Oil Pulling, Mold, Tool: Coconut Oil; Facial Trauma
01:28:07 Nicotine Gum & Pouches, Oral Health; Coffee, Teeth Whitening
01:34:16 Whole Foods, Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste; Tool: Testing Oral Microbiome
01:39:39 Water Fluoridation, History, Other Fluoride Sources, Neurocognitive Issues
01:54:57 Drinking Water & Fluoride, Toothpaste, Cavities
01:59:51 Sponsor: LMNT
02:01:07 Water Fluoridation & Levels
02:04:52 Oral Health & Fertility
02:07:03 Toothbrushing, Flossing, Waterpik, Tool: Toothbrushing & Meals
02:13:23 Teeth Spots & Markings, Fluorosis, Hypoplastic Enamel
02:19:10 Oral Health, Women, Pregnancy, Menopause & Burning Mouth
02:23:16 Geographic Tongue; Lip Balm; Mouth Breathing, Symmetrical Chewing
02:27:09 Tongue Tie, Chewing & Speech Function, Intervention
02:32:27 Red Light Therapy, Peptides & Exosomes
02:34:40 Mercury Fillings, Ceramic Composites, Retainers, Sealants
02:39:08 Dentists, Depression, Anxiety, Suicide; Insurance
02:45:05 Recap, Top Behavioral Tools for Oral Health, Tongue Scrapping
02:52:10 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter
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