5 tips to improve your oral health

Did you know that after the gut, your mouth is home to the largest and diverse microbiota in your body? Comprising over 700 species of bacteria, it gives a pretty good indication of your overall health. When we neglect our oral health, it can lead to issues such as bad breath, gum inflammation, dry mouth, and tooth decay, including cavities. 

What’s more, your oral health can also significantly impact your overall health. Causing inflammation, gut dysbiosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and pregnancy complications, taking a more holistic approach to looking after your body starts with your mouth. 

Thankfully, all it takes is a few quick additions to your daily routine. Discover these simple, evidence-backed steps for fresher breath and a healthier, happier mouth.

Tip #1: Try tongue scraping

As one of the latest trends in oral health, tongue scraping is a simple and effective way to get rid of that unpleasant stuff on your tongue. In fact, the bacteria coating your tongue is one of the biggest causes of volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs)—a main offender in bad breath. 

Studies have found that mechanical tongue cleaning can reduce bad breath and tongue coating. Consider adding this simple tool to your routine for a fresher mouth in under a minute.

Tip #2: Use a probiotic mouthwash

The oral microbiome is present in everything from the soft tissues of your inner cheek to the hard surfaces of your teeth. So, feeding them probiotics is one of the best things you can do for oral health. 

Rather than taking a supplement, you can get two benefits for the price of one with oral health probiotics. With regular use of a probiotic mouthwash, you can get fresher breath, a cleaner mouth, and a healthier microbiome. (Psst, we love this one from Henry Blooms.)

Likewise, studies are still investigating the benefits of coconut oil for oral health, with early findings indicating that swishing and pulling with this natural ingredient can do wonders for your mouth, too. 

For the most effective clean, add oil pulling to your morning routine, immediately after scraping. Put a teaspoon of coconut oil into your mouth and swish around for up to 10 minutes. When it's time to rinse, simply spit the oil into a tissue and throw it in the bin.

Tip #3: Focus on gut health 

Just as your oral health can impact your gut health, your gut health can have the same effect on your mouth. Recent studies and clinical trials suggest that probiotics may play an active role in preventing and treating oral infections.

Want to improve your gut health? A holistic approach is best. Prioritise regular sleep and exercise, eat a diverse range of whole foods, and incorporate prebiotics and probiotics into your diet. Your teeth will feel good, but your body and mind will feel even better.

Tip #4: Eat more high-fibre foods

High-fibre foods are great for gut health, but they’re also exceptional for oral health. Earning the title of ‘nature’s toothbrush’, fresh fruits and vegetables are a must if you want fresher breath.

Not only does the fibre in fruit and veg scrub your teeth, but it also stimulates the production of saliva that fights bacteria. Plus, incorporating more oranges and Brussels sprouts into your diet through mindful eating provides more vitamin C, which helps strengthen your blood vessels and connective tissues, slowing the progression of gum disease. 

Additionally, the naturally occurring antioxidant compound CoQ10 can protect against damage and reduce inflammation, with studies showing it may be beneficial in preventing gum disease. Foods naturally rich in CoQ10 include fatty fish, whole grains, and nuts, but supplements are also available over the counter.

Tip #5: Floss, floss, floss

Sounds simple, but according to stats, three-quarters of Australians don’t floss their teeth. Adding flossing to your daily routine helps keep your breath fresh and removes stuck pieces of food that your toothbrush can’t reach. Today, you can find all kinds of floss options, including bamboo, silk, and cotton, so there’s something for every mouth.

A healthier body starts with your mouth

Fresh breath and a clean mouth are just some of the benefits of improving your oral health. With the right foods, some simple changes to your brushing routine, and a focus on gut health, you can get a healthier mouth and a healthier you.

Want more practical tips about improving your health and wellness? Read the rest of The Wellness Blog for scientific backed, expert advice.