In wellness, the early 2020s will be remembered as the time we went microbiome mad – ‘gut health’ were the words on everyone’s lips as we became slavish to ferments, fibre and the 30 plants a week challenge. But we’re learning that the secrets to longevity also lie in the mouth.
The oral microbiome is the second largest microbiota in the body, containing 700 different species of bacteria — and its diversity affects far more than whether we have bad breath. A growing amount of research has linked this community of microorganisms to everything from brain function to even heart disease.
Leading dentist and president of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Dr Sam Jethwa explains: “Maintaining balance in the oral microbiome is vital for healthy gums, preventing cavities and tooth decay, but it is also linked to our overall health.”
Dr Rizwan Mahmood, who is co-founder of Ruh Dental at Harrods, adds: “When this delicate ecosystem is disrupted — what we call dysbiosis —harmful bacteria can flourish. These bacteria don’t just stay put. They can enter the bloodstream via inflamed gums and contribute to systemic inflammation, which is increasingly linked to chronic conditions.”
The British Heart Foundation has published research outlining that 69 per cent of those with gum disease have a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk of heart disease. And research is mounting to suggest that bad bacteria in the mouth, which can also cause gum disease, is linked to Alzheimer’s.
As Dr Mahmood notes: “In short, a healthy mouth sets the stage for a healthier you.” So how do you reduce the risks and boost the good bacteria?
The amount of products to support the mouth’s microbiome is growing apace, with oral probiotics becoming a popular new category. However, both dentists note that many of us still fail to get a handle on the basics of oral hygiene.
“Looking after your mouth’s microbiome means doing more than just brushing vigorously twice a day. It’s about gentle, effective cleaning, avoiding excessive use of harsh mouthwashes that can wipe out good bacteria, and being mindful of sugar intake, which fuels the harmful bugs,” says Dr Mahmood.
Dr Jethwa notes that brushing the gum line, tongue and inside the cheeks is a step many people miss, as is flossing at least once a day with interdentals. “Almost half the surface area of your teeth is between them, and if you’re not cleaning there, plaque builds up, putting you at risk for gum disease and decay,” says Dr Mahmood.
Dr Mahmood also warns against “frequent snacking and sipping on acidic drinks, including ‘healthy’ ones such as smoothies, which can create an environment where your teeth are under constant acid attack”.
Dehydration is another potential pitfall when it comes to looking after your oral health. “A dry mouth can lead to gingivitis, tooth decay, cavities, bad breath and infections,” says Dr Jethwa. So be sure to drink plenty of water to help with saliva production which protects the mouth and washes away food debris.
The simple secrets to your healthiest smile yet
The basics of oral hygiene according to Dr Sam Jethwa and Dr Rizwan Mahmood
Floss before brushing for the most effective results
Brush before breakfast, around 30 minutes before eating
Take probiotics if you’re suffering with bad breath or your sense of taste feels off (signs your microbiome is off-balance)
Brush twice a day, including the gum line, cheeks and tongue (gently does it though!)
Use a toothpaste with flouride, and try one that is SLS-free (Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, which makes formulas foam) for a more sustainable approach
Drink plenty of water to aid saliva production and to wash away bacteria
Alongside attending regular check-ups, see your dentist if you notice bleeding when you brush, and any other signs of gum disease or soreness
Change your brush head or toothbrush regularly — every three months or more
An increased interest in oral health comes at a time when we’re already spending more than ever on our pearly whites. By 2026 the global market for cosmetic dentistry is projected to reach more than £45 billion. But in pursuit of symmetrical white smiles, some of us might be doing ourselves dirty.
Dr Mahmood notes that the rise in popularity of mail-order or DIY aligners “poses a real risk of damaging tooth roots or worsening gum health” while at-home whitening can increase sensitivity and weaken enamel.
As for ‘Turkey teeth’, Dr Jethwa warns that often these are in fact crowns rather than veneers, and the drilling down of natural teeth can lead “to extreme sensitivity and pain, inflammation, infection, and even bad breath as poor fitting can mean food debris and bacteria can get caught in the gaps between the gumline.” So ensuring you have any tweakments on your mouth performed by a trusted, registered professional is essential.
A new wave of dental care products is focused on oral health with a goal of longevity over superficiality, however. Suri’s hygienic electric toothbrush is one of the most hyped buys on the market now (£63.75, trysuri.com). It comes in a UV-light clean case that kills 99 per cent of bacteria in a minute. Plus, new toothpastes use more natural ingredients and the right levels of fluoride (at least 1,350ppm) and come in refined flavours. Try Tooth Angel in Cinnamon Mint (£9.99, toothangel.co.uk) or Selahatin’s Steam Will Rise (£19, johnbellcroyden.co.uk).
As well as regular check-ups, updating your at-homekit will help keep the microbiome in good shape.
