The Complete Truth About Dental Hygiene

Introduction

Maintaining good dental hygiene is not just about a beautiful smile; it’s crucial for your health.  October is Dental Hygiene Month. As a dental hygienist and registered dietitian, I thought this month would be the perfect time to examine the strong link between oral health and overall well-being. Because when it comes to oral health, just having a lovely smile isn’t the complete truth about dental hygiene. Your mouth is the window to your body.  Let’s look at the smile connection and how dental hygiene impacts your overall health. I also included two oral-friendly recipes to help promote good dental health.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Your mouth serves as the gateway to your body. Numerous studies have shown that the health of your mouth is intricately connected to your overall health. Recent research has uncovered strong correlations between poor oral hygiene and various systemic diseases. Let’s delve into some of these connections:

1. Heart Health: Studies have shown that gum disease (periodontitis) can increase the risk of heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in the arteries. This inflammation may contribute to the development of cardiovascular problems.
2. Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can worsen gum disease, while gum disease can make it challenging to control blood sugar levels. This two-way relationship highlights the importance of managing oral health for those with diabetes.
3. Respiratory Health: Poor oral hygiene can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which may be inhaled into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory infections like pneumonia and exacerbating conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
4. Digestive Disorders: Oral health issues such as loose or missing teeth can impact your ability to chew and digest food properly. Improperly chewed food is harder to digest, which can lead to stomach discomfort and other digestive woes. Difficulty chewing can also cause avoidance of certain foods which eventually can affect nutrition status and overall health.
5. Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with gum disease may be at higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make the gums more susceptible to inflammation. Good oral hygiene during pregnancy is essential.
6. Alzheimer’s Disease: Some studies have suggested a link between poor oral health and cognitive decline in older adults. The exact mechanisms behind this connection are still being researched, but it underscores the importance of oral hygiene for brain health.

The Role of Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists play a vital role in helping patients maintain good oral health. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues. Dental hygienists can also educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and diet choices to maintain strong teeth and healthy gums.

The Impact of Nutrition

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A diet rich in essential nutrients can help prevent dental problems. Here are some dietary guidelines:

1. Calcium and Vitamin D: These nutrients are essential for strong teeth and bones. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can help meet your calcium and vitamin D needs.
2. Vitamin C: This vitamin is vital for healthy gums. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and broccoli are excellent sources of vitamin C.
3. Fiber: A high-fiber diet can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your meals.
4. Water: Staying hydrated is key to maintaining a moist mouth, which is essential for preventing tooth decay.

Try one of these tooth-friendly recipes to eat toward better health.

Recommended Oral Health Products:

It helps to have the right equipment for any job. To make caring for your mouth easier, here are a few of my favorite oral care products. There are lots of them on the market so ask your dentist or dental hygienist for specific products to meet your needs.

1. Toothbrush: A good quality electric toothbrush like the Oral-B Pro 1000 can help you maintain optimal oral hygiene. Electric toothbrushes have shown superior cleaning ability in studies. I particularly like the design of the Oral-B.
2. Toothpaste: Choose a toothpaste containing sodium or stannous fluoride to strengthen enamel. One option is Biotene toothpaste which contains fluoride and xylitol. This combo has been shown to be effective at strengthening enamel and fighting dental decay.  
3. Dental Floss: Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Comfort Plus is an excellent choice for effective flossing. As the name implies, it seems to “glide” even between tight spaces.
4. Mouthwash: Consider a fluoride mouth rinse like ACT Anticavity for even more protection against tooth decay.  If you experience dry mouth, consider a toothpaste, mouth wash, lozenges, or spray especially formulated for dry mouth to help lubricate the oral mucosa such as Biotene.

Conclusion

Your dental hygiene is more than just a matter of keeping your teeth clean; it’s a gateway to better overall health. As a dental hygienist and dietitian, my focus is always on maintaining good oral hygiene practices and a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. By doing so, you can protect not only your smile but your entire body.

For further information on oral health products and resources, consider checking out the following links:

• American Dental Association
• Colgate
• Oral-B

Remember, a healthy mouth is a crucial component of a healthy life. Take care of your smile, and your body will thank you for it.

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References:

1. Desvarieux, M., & Demmer, R. T. (2013). Periodontal infections and cardiovascular disease: The heart of the matter. Journal of the American Dental Association, 144(9), 998-1000.
2. Taylor, G. W., Burt, B. A., Becker, M. P., Genco, R. J., Shlossman, M., Knowler, W. C., & Pettitt, D. J. (1996). Severe periodontitis and risk for poor glycemic control in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Journal of Periodontology, 67(10), 1085-1093.
3. Scannapieco, F. A., & Ho, A. W. (2001). Potential associations between chronic respiratory disease and periodontal disease: analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III. Journal of Periodontology, 72(1), 50-56.
4. Offenbacher, S., Katz, V., Fertik, G., Collins, J., Boyd, D., Maynor, G., … & Beck, J. (1996). Periodontal infection as a possible risk factor for preterm low birth weight. Journal of Periodontology, 67(10s), 1103-1113.
5. Wu, B., Fillenbaum, G. G., Plassman, B. L., Guo, L., & Liang, J. (2016). Association between oral health and cognitive status: a systematic review. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 64(4), 739-751.

Resources:

1. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2018). Periodontal (Gum) Disease.
2. American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). Oral Health and Hygiene.
3. American Dental Association. (n.d.). Gum Disease and Heart Disease.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Oral health: A window to your overall health.
5. American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Oral Health During Pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider for personalized dental and nutritional guidance.