Smile Brighter, Feel Better: How Oral Health Affects Your Entire Body
Your smile might be the key to more than just making a good impression! Recent research from the University of Sydney has uncovered a significant link between oral health and chronic pain conditions, particularly in women.
The groundbreaking study found that poor oral health is strongly associated with higher instances of migraines, abdominal discomfort, and body pain. Participants with the poorest oral health were 60% more likely to experience moderate to severe body pain and 49% more likely to suffer from migraine headaches.
Scientists discovered that specific bacteria in our mouths may interact with our nervous system, potentially triggering or worsening pain conditions. This research highlights what we’ve always believed—that oral health is a crucial component of your overall wellbeing!
To keep your mouth healthy and potentially reduce your risk of pain, remember to:
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
Maintain regular dental check-ups and cleanings
Limit sugary foods and drinks
Your journey to better health starts with a healthy smile! Schedule your next cleaning with us today and take a proactive step toward overall wellness.
The Dental Benefits of Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet isn’t just good for your heart—it’s fantastic for your smile too! This eating pattern, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, offers numerous benefits for your oral health.
Olive oil, a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that may help combat gum inflammation. Nuts and seeds provide calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium—essential minerals for maintaining strong tooth enamel.
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are packed with vitamins that support gum health, while fruits and vegetables naturally clean teeth as you chew. Additionally, cheese provides calcium and probiotics that strengthen enamel and create a healthier oral microbiome.
Perhaps most importantly, the Mediterranean diet minimises processed sugars—the primary food source for harmful bacteria in your mouth. By choosing fresh, whole foods instead, you’re naturally reducing your cavity risk while enjoying delicious meals!
Water Flossers vs. Traditional Floss: The Right Choice for Your Smile
When it comes to cleaning between your teeth, you’ve got options! Traditional string floss has been the go-to method for decades, but water flossers have gained popularity for their ease of use and effectiveness. Let’s compare these tools to help you make the best choice for your oral health.
Traditional floss excels at physically scraping plaque from tooth surfaces when used correctly. It’s portable, inexpensive, and highly effective when used with proper technique. However, many people find it challenging to reach back teeth or use with orthodontic appliances.
Water flossers, on the other hand, use a pressurized stream of water to flush out food particles and bacteria. Studies even show they may reduce your chance of developing gingivitis compared to string floss! They’re particularly beneficial for people with braces, dental implants, or dexterity challenges.
The verdict? Both methods effectively clean between teeth when used correctly and consistently. The best method is ultimately the one you’ll use regularly!
Jun 06, 2025 at 4:20 AM
What about interdental brushes? They are easier/faster to use than floss, and (for me) they seem to do a better job.
Jun 07, 2025 at 12:11 PM
Hi Gordon, It’s excellent you’re using interproximal brushes and I would advise continuing to do that. For additional benefits flossing is advised too, as this actually cleans under the gum between the teeth rather than just between the teeth. Experiment with different types of floss/ tape and find one that works for you . Happy Oral Health Regards Dr Peter Raymond.