HEALTHY MOUTH, HEALTHY BODY

WHY DOES THE ORAL MICROBIOME MATTER?
• Oral Health: The microbes in the mouth help with processes like digestion (e.g., breaking down food particles) and protecting against harmful pathogens. However, if harmful bacteria become dominant (like Streptococcus mutans, which contributes to tooth decay), it can lead to dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
• Immune System Function: The oral cavity acts as a gateway to the rest of the body, and the microbiome plays a role in regulating local and systemic immune responses. A balanced microbiome helps maintain oral and overall immune health, while an imbalance can promote inflammation and increase the risk of infection.
• Systemic Health: The health of the oral microbiome is linked to broader health conditions. Poor oral hygiene and an unhealthy oral microbiome are associated with various systemic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications.

CONNECTION BETWEEN THE ORAL AND GUT MICROBIOMES
The oral microbiome and gut microbiome are connected in several ways:

• Microbial Transmission: The microorganisms in the mouth can be swallowed and enter the digestive system, potentially affecting the gut microbiome. For instance, harmful bacteria from the mouth can be carried into the stomach and intestines, where they might disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome.
• Inflammatory Pathways: An imbalance in the oral microbiome can cause inflammation, which might contribute to systemic inflammation and impact the gut. For example, chronic gum disease (periodontitis) can promote systemic inflammation, which may alter gut microbiota composition and contribute to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Shared Microbial Species: Some species of bacteria are found both in the oral cavity and the gut. The health of one microbiome may influence the other, as changes in the oral microbiome can impact gut health and vice versa. For example, the bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum has been found in both the mouth and the gut, and its presence is linked to diseases like colorectal cancer.

Maintaining good oral hygiene, like regular brushing and flossing, can help maintain a healthy balance of oral microbes and, by extension, potentially support overall gut health as well.

Additionally, a balanced diet rich in fiber, fermented foods, and probiotics can support both microbiomes. The products that you use do matter.

You don’t want to use something that will kill your good bacteria. Harsh detergents and antibacterial ingredients can throw the microbiome out of balance by wiping away ALL the bacteria. Stay away from ingredients such as cetylpyridinium chloride, triclosan, alcohol and high concentrations of essential oils.

An acidic environment (a low pH) in your mouth creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Make sure to limit very acidic drinks such as sports drinks, soda, hot lemon water and foods like balsamic vinegar. If you must have them, be sure to chase with a glass of water right after to help neutralize the acids. Make sure to brush with a toothpaste that is pH balanced such as IntelliWHiTE products which help keep your microbiome health intact.

In short, the oral microbiome plays a crucial role in both oral and systemic health, and its balance is closely linked to the health of the gut microbiome.

In Good Health,
Dr. Jennifer Jablow

For more information Dr. Jennifer Jablow,
visit DoctorJablow.com. 

You can send your questions or a subject you would like to see covered in a future story to
docsmilez@gmail.com

To learn more, please visit ShopIntelliWHiTE.com