Surprising Key to VIBRANT HEALTH
Safeguarding your smile does more than prevent cavities — it helps optimize mood, metabolism and more
“If you want to change your health for the better, it’s key to start with your mouth.” Steven Lin, D.D.S.
You know the drill on oral hygiene: brush, floss and visit your dentist to keep teeth sparkling and gums healthy. And now science suggests good oral health delivers benefits far beyond a pretty smile. “The microbial health of our mouth is a window into the microbial health of our gut — and research has shown gut health can influence risk of concerns such as heart disease and diabetes, as well as vital body processes like brain function and immunity,” says Steven Lin, D.D.S., author of The Dental Diet. “If you want to change your health for the better, it’s key to start with your mouth.” But getting the benefits isn’t all about brushing and flossing. Here, his surprising (and simple) strategies that can make all the difference!
SWITCH UP YOUR SWISH
“Commercial mouthwashes have a bacteria-fighting action that can undo the good you’re doing for your mouth,” says Dr. Lin, who explains that many popular rinses kill nearly all oral bacteria — even the good bugs. His advice: Skip the swish, or make a DIY rinse that freshens breath without upsetting bacterial balance. To do: Add 1 drop of spearmint or peppermint oil to 4 oz. of water.
HUM A TUNE
Odds are your dentist doesn’t ask if you hum daily — but maybe she should! “Humming for two minutes a day trains the vocal chords and diaphragm to keep airways open — even during sleep,” explains Dr. Lin. This in turn reduces the open-mouthed breathing and nighttime snoring that dry out oral tissues and create an environment in which bacteria that cause gum disease and illness thrive.
DO THIS BEFORE MEALS
Risk of dry mouth rises after age 50. But breathing through your nose improves saliva output — and that helps keep bad oral bacteria in check, says Dr. Lin. For bonus benefits, he suggests a premeal deep-breathing exercise: Take five deep breaths in through your nose, inhaling for three counts and exhaling for two. “Nasal breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.”
CRUNCH ON THESE
Munching on carrots, celery, nuts and sunflower seeds helps scrub bad oral bacteria off teeth. And since the pressure of chewing helps to build bone, crunchy foods also protect against the bone loss that can lead to tooth loss over time, adds Dr. Lin. What’s more, good gut bacteria feast on the fiber in these foods to protect against the inflammation that has been linked to weight gain and fatigue.