Our parents always asked us if we had brushed our teeth when we were younger, and they may have been on to something with their persistence. Other than the obvious benefits of healthy teeth like having a nice smile and a clean mouth, brushing your teeth also helps the rest of your body. With so many germs on our hands and the food we eat, a clean mouth is the first line of defense to keep our body healthy and protected.
How are oral health and overall health connected?
Bacteria can be found almost anywhere on or within our body, but most bacteria are harmless. Simple prevention methods like washing your hands, bathing and practicing good oral hygiene can prevent serious problems and health risk from occurring. However, without proper hygiene, especially brushing and flossing, bacteria can reach dangerous levels. Oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease can be particularly crippling due to their delicate nature. Practicing good oral hygiene is a must.
Improper dental care can lead to larger health issues that may include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, endocarditis, and various other conditions. Also, some medications like painkillers and decongestants may reduce your natural saliva flow. Saliva is important because it rinses/washes away food and helps break down acids from bacteria in the mouth saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Thus, saliva is crucial in protecting you from an overgrowth of bacteria in your mouth that could lead to more harmful health issues.
Life Priority’s Suggestions to Improve Oral Health
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day (after breakfast and before bed)
- We suggest a NON-Fluoride toothpaste, like Tom’s Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
- Floss daily. I prefer to use a floss with wax, coupled with The Doctor’s BrushPicks
- Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and fresh juice
- Take your supplements to insure a healthy foundation, specifically Calcium for healthier teeth
Calcium helps to maintain healthy teeth. When calcium levels are low, the jawbone surrenders the mineral to other areas of the body in need. As the jaw weakens, teeth loosen, creating gaps susceptible to bacteria that can cause infection, inflammation and bleeding.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed. I would suggest Oral-B because it’s a quality American-made product.
- Schedule regular dental checkups at least every 6 months. Contact your dentist as soon as an oral health problem arises. Please notify your dentist if you’re taking any medications.
Need a calcium boost?
If you need a little help getting enough calcium in our diet, our 3-Way Calcium™ supplement offers three different sources of Calcium, tricalcium phosphate, calcium citrate, calcium ascorbate, calcium borate for high bioavailability and absorption, so they reach your bones quicker and are utilized more effectively. 3-Way Calcium™ also includes several nutrient co-factors which help the body use calcium ABCD. Four capsules of Durk & Sandy’s 3-Way Calcium™ contain 1,000 mg of calcium, the same amount in 20 ounces of milk and 800 iu of Vitamin D, or the amount in 1/2 gallon of fortified milk.