You might think brushing and flossing just gives you a sparkling smile and fresh breath, but ensuring your oral health is in good shape can, in fact, affect your overall wellbeing. It’s all linked to your oral mircobiome – a bustling ecosystem, home to trillions of microbes which are essential for digestion, immunity, and even regulating inflammation throughout your body. 

Research shows that oral bacteria travel to the gut and influence digestion and gut health. An imbalance in mouth bacteria can contribute to gut inflammation and may even affect whole-body inflammation. 

Look out for these four common signs that your oral microbiome needs support:

• Persistent bad breath
• Gum inflammation, bleeding, or sensitivity
• Tooth decay or enamel issues
• Digestive discomfort like bloating or irregularity

If you notice these signs, it might be time to rethink your oral care routine and diet to support a healthier microbial balance. Here are five steps to get you started: 

1. Choose microbiome-friendly oral care products: Look for toothpastes and mouth rinses free from harsh artificial chemicals. 
2. Eat prebiotic and probiotic foods: Fermented foods, like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, can help beneficial bacteria flourish.
3. Stay hydrated: Saliva is a natural defence mechanism that nourishes good bacteria and helps wash away food debris.
4. Limit sugar and refined carbs: Too much sugar can feed harmful bacteria and disrupt your oral microbiome.
5. Practice consistent oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing keep plaque in check without harming beneficial microbes.

Content by Faithful to Nature. 

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