Your teeth and gums can cause what?!

When it comes to wellness, oral care isn’t always top of mind. But spoiler alert: your mouth is more than the gateway to your smile—it’s the cornerstone of your overall health.

From the foods you eat to the products you use, your oral hygiene routine extends well beyond your teeth. We’re diving into why oral health matters, how it connects to the rest of your body, and holistic ways to take care of your pearly whites.

Why Oral Health Matters

Did you know that the health of your teeth and gums impacts everything from your hormones to your heart? Oral issues—like gum disease and cavities—aren’t just a surface-level concern. In fact, they’re often linked to systemic inflammation. Furthermore, poor oral hygiene can disrupt your microbiome (both in your mouth and your gut!), leading to imbalances that affect your digestion, immunity, and hormonal health.

What’s more, the mouth-body connection goes both ways. Hormonal shifts—during pregnancy or menopause—are known to increase the risk of gum sensitivity and inflammation. It’s a reminder that taking care of your mouth is about supporting your entire body.

Diseases Impacted by Oral Health

🦷 Hormonal health: As mentioned, hormonal changes can make gums more susceptible to swelling or bleeding. Gum disease can also impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

🦷 Gut health: The bacteria in your mouth doesn’t just stay there—it travels down to your gut, shaping your microbiome along the way. In turn, an imbalance in oral bacteria may lead to leaky gut or digestive issues.

🦷 Cardiovascular disease: Yes, taking care of your gums also supports a healthier heart. By reducing gum inflammation, you’re not just preventing oral issues—you’re actively lowering your risk of heart disease and boosting your overall longevity.

🦷 Diabetes: Here’s something most people don’t realize: neglecting your oral health can throw off your blood sugar and increase the risk of health concerns.

Holistic Ways to Care for Your Teeth and Gums

Fortunately, taking a natural, proactive approach to oral care isn't rocket science! Here are a few ideas to upgrade your routine:

1️⃣ Nourish from the inside out.

• Nutrient-rich foods: Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are essential for strong teeth. Leafy greens, fatty fish, and bone broth are excellent choices.

• Chew raw veggies: Crunchy vegetables (carrots, celery, and cucumbers) act as natural toothbrushes! Their fibrous texture helps remove plaque and food particles from your teeth while stimulating saliva production, which is a natural defense against tooth decay.

• Sip green tea: Green tea contains polyphenols that help reduce oral bacteria and fight gum inflammation. Drinking a cup of unsweetened green tea daily can support healthy gums and prevent plaque buildup.

• Up your collagen intake: Collagen and gelatin (found in bone broth or taken as supplements) are rich in amino acids like proline and glycine. These are essential for repairing and maintaining healthy gums and connective tissue in the mouth.

• Limit sugar: It’s no secret that sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of cavities. Stick to whole foods and natural sweeteners in moderation!

2️⃣ Upgrade your oral hygiene routine.

• Tongue scraping: Effectively removes bacteria and improves breath. We prefer either a stainless steel tongue scraper (durable, easy to clean, and long-lasting) or a copper tongue scrapper—these have natural antibacterial properties.

• Natural toothpaste: Consider brands like FYGG, which use hydroxyapatite, a non-toxic alternative to fluoride that strengthens enamel.

• Oil pulling: Swishing coconut oil can help remove toxins and support gum health.

• Consider a sea salt rinse. Use high quality sea salt and warm water to help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. Simply swish around for 15-30 seconds once or twice a day. 

3️⃣ Schedule regular maintenance.

• Schedule cleanings every six months (or more often if needed).

• Don’t skip flossing—it removes plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach.

What About Fluoride?

If you know, you know: fluoride is a controversial topic. While it’s proven to reduce cavities, excessive use can lead to fluorosis (white spots on teeth) or potentially disrupt your thyroid. Consider whether you want to use fluoride toothpaste or opt for hydroxyapatite, which is equally effective without potential risks.

Elevate Your Wellness Through Your Dental Hygiene

To bring this full circle, incorporating holistic oral care into your wellness routine is a simple yet powerful way to support your overall health. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, upgrading your hygiene habits, and being mindful of your oral care products, you’re doing more than protecting your smile—you’re investing in your long-term vitality. Remember, your mouth is the gateway to your health.