Is the oral microbiome the secret to longevity?

Awareness of our gut health is ever increasing, with the science—and supplements—supporting it evolving rapidly. But now, conversations surrounding our oral health are increasing, too—not least because the oral microbiome is considered the second largest microbial community in the human body.

But what exactly is the oral microbiome? And what does impact does it have (besides how pleasant our breath smells)? A significant one, Dr Tom Crawford-Clarke, cosmetic dentist and owner and founder of Luceo Dental, tells us.

What is the oral microbiome?

The oral microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microbes, that live in the mouth, Dr Crawford-Clarke explains. “This ecosystem plays a critical role in maintaining our oral health by helping with functions such as digestion, immune defence and the prevention of overgrowth of pathogenic species—or ‘bad bugs’.” A balanced oral microbiome is essential for overall health, he says, as imbalances can not only lead to dental conditions—like cavities, gum disease and oral infections—but wider systemic diseases, too.

The connection between oral health and gut health

The oral microbiome is connected to the gut microbiome, the dentist explains, “with imbalances linked to impacting digestive health”. This happens, for example, via the saliva carried with our food. “The immune system of the mucosal surfaces in the mouth and gut work cohesively to manage microbial populations,” he schools. “Imbalances in the gut can trigger immune responses in the oral biome and vice versa.”

How the oral microbiome affects our health at large

The mouth’s bad bacteria can not only travel to the gut, but all over the body, “causing or exacerbating problems, from cardiovascular disease and cancer to Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis,” the New Scientist reports. Not only that, but the health of the oral microbiome has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes and even erectile dysfunction, Dr Crawford-Clarke adds. And then there’s the oral health’s impact on one’s general physical and mental health, including “nutrition, speech, and self-esteem”.

Maintaining a balanced oral microbiome, on the other hand, can reduce these risks, while also supporting our overall immune function. Meanwhile, “on-going research into the oral microbiome may lead to new treatments for diseases,” oral and otherwise, the dentist reveals. Expect it to pierce the zeitgeist soon.

How to know if your oral microbiome is unhealthy

When it comes to your own personal oral microbiome, Dr Crawford-Clarke says there are some common red flags to watch out for.

These include chronic bad breath, which “can indicate an imbalance in the oral microbiome”; easily bleeding gums, “which may be a sign of gum disease linked to microbial imbalance”; tooth decay, as “frequent cavities can be a result of harmful bacteria dominating the oral microbiome”; oral infections and sores in the mouth; and sudden changes in taste sensation, “for example a metallic taste, which can be linked to microbiome imbalances”.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, see a dental professional for advice and treatment.

How to maintain a healthy oral microbiome

To maintain a healthy, balanced oral microbiome, there are some simple ‘dos and don’ts’ Dr Crawford-Clarke recommends, as outlined below.

Follow good oral hygiene practices: “This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste; flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth; and using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria—ideally at a separate time to brushing.” However, avoid excessive use of antimicrobial mouthwashes, the expert adds, as “like antibiotics, they can actually kill the beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones, disrupting the microbiome balance”.

Consuming a healthy diet: “Reduce consumption of sugary foods and drinks, which promote harmful bacterial growth; eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to support overall health and a balanced microbiome; and include fermented foods to promote beneficial bacteria.”

Book regular dental check-ups: “Visit a dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups to monitor and maintain oral health.”

Prioritise hydration: “Drink plenty of water to maintain saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.” In addition, “avoid high alcohol consumption, which can alter the balance of the oral microbiome and cause dehydration”.

Quit smoking: “Smoking and chewing tobacco can disrupt the microbiome and increase the risk of oral diseases.”

Pay attention to your oral microbiome: your future self will thank you.

This article originally appeared on Harper’s Bazaar UK.

Lead image credit: Pexels

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