The Link Between Oral Health and Dementia: Could Your Mouth Affect Your Mind?

We’ve always known that our oral health plays a crucial role in preventing cavities and gum disease, but a fascinating new study suggests that the health of our mouths might also influence our brains as we age. A team of researchers at the University of Exeter in the UK has discovered a possible link between the microbial ecosystems in our mouths and the development of dementia.

Published in PNAS Nexus, the study explores two potential ways oral bacteria might impact cognitive function. The first is that harmful bacteria from the mouth could enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain. The second involves the displacement of nitrate-reducing bacteria in the mouth, which are essential for creating nitric oxide. This molecule is crucial for synaptic plasticity, a process necessary for learning and memory.

For the study, researchers examined the oral microbiome of 115 participants, including 55 individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). They found that participants with the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele—a gene variant linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's—had significant differences in their oral microbiomes compared to healthy participants.

Interestingly, the study revealed that a higher abundance of bacteria from the Neisseria genus was associated with better cognitive function. Specifically, among those with MCI, Neisseria correlated with better executive function and visual attention. For healthy participants, it was linked to improved working memory.

So, what does this mean for your brain health? According to the researchers, diet plays a key role in shaping the oral microbiome. A nitrate-rich diet, for example, may promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that are linked to improved cognitive outcomes. Foods like leafy greens, beets, and other nitrate-rich vegetables could be your brain’s best friend in the fight against cognitive decline.

This study brings an exciting new perspective on how maintaining good oral health could be more important than we thought—not just for a bright smile, but for a sharp mind as well.

Flossing and Its Surprising Link to Stroke Prevention

When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, most people think of flossing as a simple way to keep your teeth clean and gums healthy. But recent research suggests that the benefits of flossing may go beyond just dental care—it could also play a role in reducing your risk of stroke.

A new study presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference in Los Angeles has uncovered a fascinating connection between regular flossing and a decreased risk of certain types of strokes. The study, which followed 6,278 participants over the course of 25 years, found that people who flossed regularly experienced a significantly lower risk of ischemic stroke, cardioembolic stroke, and atrial fibrillation (AFib), a type of irregular heart rhythm known to increase stroke risk.

Here are the key findings:

• Those who flossed regularly had a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke caused by blocked blood flow to the brain.

• They experienced a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke, which occurs when a blood clot from the heart travels to the brain.

• Regular flossers also had a 12% lower risk of developing AFib, a condition that can cause strokes by disrupting normal heart rhythm.

These findings highlight the importance of flossing as more than just a way to avoid cavities and gum disease—it might be a simple but effective way to protect your heart and brain as well. So, the next time you pick up that floss, remember that it's not only helping your smile but potentially reducing your stroke risk too!

Minor adjustments to our oral hygiene routine may make the largest impact on our well-being

Many commonly used dental products contain ingredients that destroy bacteria indiscriminately and create conditions that allow undesirable bacteria to thrive. This includes antibacterial ingredients that wipe out both good bacteria and bad, sweeteners and chemical additives, alcohol, and even the banned hormone-altering ingredient triclosan.

Besides the damage that these ingredients do to your oral microbiome (and your gut microbiome, from swallowing small amounts during brushing and swishing), they can also help contribute to issues they're supposed to be solving––notably, bad breath. While oral hygiene products can mask or temporarily destroy the bacteria that cause foul odours, they also often set up conditions that allow those bacteria to regroup, instead of increasing the number of beneficial bacteria to address the underlying cause of bad breath.

 Many hygiene products contain ingredients to whiten teeth that are effective, but wear down your enamel in the process. Peroxide and abrasives are too harsh for enamel, leaving it weak and prone to further damage.

You might notice this as your teeth becoming more sensitive after a whitening treatment. 

Acid erosion from an unbalanced oral microbiome can also leave the nerves in your teeth closer to the surface of the tooth than they should be, which is why you might notice sensitivity even without whitening treatments. Once your enamel reaches a certain degree of damage, it's gone for good.

Apart from microbiome – considerate antibacterial action, a good toothpaste should have enamel restoring ingredient. Fluoride is an ingredient in most conventional chemical toothpastes that helps remineralize teeth. However, fluoride is not desirable for those who choose natural ways of maintaining health. Recent scientific scrutiny of fluoride has led us to believe that it MAY NOT BE the best chemical to throw in your mouth twice a day.

A number of natural toothpaste manufactures use a natural remineralization agent called hydroxyapatite (which is the main component in tooth enamel). Hydroxyapatite use have greater remineralization effect than fluoride and it’s completely non-toxic.

Take care of your good bacteria

Just like your gut, your mouth is home to hundreds of species of bacteria.  Most of them are beneficial, like L. paracasei and S. salivarius, but a few of them are invader species, like S. mutans and P. gingivalis. When you've got an appropriate balance of bacteria, you don't have too many unwanted bacteria in the biofilm that coats your teeth, so your enamel and gums are moderately healthy. Additionally, when your bacteria are balanced, your saliva stays at a relatively neutral pH and contains appropriate levels of the enzymes that jump-start good digestion.

When the bacteria in your mouth become unbalanced though, three things happen:

• Your mouth tends to become more acidic, creating ideal conditions for unwanted bacteria to take over and damage your teeth and gums.

• Bacteria start to enter your bloodstream via your gums, causing problems throughout the rest of your body, including your circulatory system, your brain function, and your gut microbiome.

• Your immune system suffers. Your mouth plays an important role in your immunity, since it's the gateway to the gut, where 80% of your immune system resides. But when numbers of the pro-immune bacteria in your oral microbiome decrease, you're more likely to feel under the weather.

Oral Microbiome and Autoimmune Health: What You Need to Know

Oral Microbiome and Autoimmune Health: What You Need to Know

Did you know your mouth is home to billions of bacteria, fungi, and other tiny microorganisms? This community is called the oral microbiome, and it does much more than just affect your breath or gums—it plays a vital role in your overall health.

Keeping this balance in check isn’t just about preventing cavities; research suggests it may also help protect against autoimmune diseases and other chronic conditions.

Why the Oral Microbiome Matters

Your mouth is the gateway to your body—everything that happens there can have a ripple effect on your health. When the balance between good and bad bacteria is disrupted (a condition called dysbiosis), it can trigger inflammation, allow harmful bacteria to spread, and contribute to serious health issues.

How Your Oral Health Affects Your Whole Body

1. A Balanced Mouth Means a Healthier You

When good bacteria thrive, your mouth stays healthy. But when plaque builds up and harmful bacteria take over, it can lead to gum disease, infections, and even trigger issues beyond the mouth.

2. The "Leaky Mouth" Effect

You may have heard of leaky gut syndrome, but did you know a similar process can happen in your mouth? When your gums are inflamed or infected, bacteria can enter your bloodstream and contribute to:

Autoimmune Reactions – Some oral bacteria may confuse the immune system, potentially worsening conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus.

Chronic Inflammation – Ongoing inflammation can worsen diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain.

3. Gum Disease: More Than Just a Dental Issue

Gum disease (periodontal disease) isn’t just about bleeding gums—it’s been linked to:

✅ Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Studies suggest treating gum disease may help reduce RA symptoms.

✅ Heart Disease – Oral bacteria can travel to the heart and increase plaque build-up in arteries.

✅ Lung Infections – Breathing in oral bacteria may worsen chronic lung conditions like COPD.

✅ Cancer Risks – Some research links gum disease to a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.

How to Keep Your Oral Microbiome Healthy

The good news? Keeping your mouth healthy is simple with a few everyday habits:

✔ Brush & Floss Daily – This removes plaque before it leads to bigger problems.

✔ Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Professional cleanings keep harmful bacteria in check.

✔ Eat a Balanced Diet – Whole foods like fruits, veggies, and yogurt support good bacteria.

✔ Drink Water Often – Hydration washes away food particles and balances your oral environment.

✔ Limit Sugar & Tobacco – These fuel harmful bacteria and disrupt your microbiome.

Why This Matters for Autoimmune Health

If you have an autoimmune disease, taking care of your mouth is even more important. Reducing inflammation in your gums may help lower your risk of flare-ups and other complications. Think of your oral care routine as an easy yet powerful way to support your body from the inside out.

The Bottom Line

Your oral health is about more than just your teeth—it’s a key part of your overall well-being. By taking small daily steps to support your oral microbiome, you can protect your health and feel your best for years to come.

How often should you be changing your toothbrush?

How often should you be changing your toothbrush?

Buying and replacing a toothbrush seems to be something that gets forgotten about from time to time. The recommended life span for a toothbrush is 3-4 months. This can vary depending on usage and personal preference. Usually if the bristles are frayed, it’s a sign that it may need replacing.

Which brush is best? 

There are so many options now for toothbrushes, but there are two main types of brushes to consider when purchasing a new brush: a manual toothbrush and an electric toothbrush.

The manual toothbrush is lighter, easy to travel with and leaves you in complete control of the pressure on your teeth and gums.

An electric toothbrush makes it easier to clean hard to reach places, between the teeth and at the gum line. It is a little bit tricker to transport and most require charging.

At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference and what will keep you motivated to brush twice a day, everyday.  The main thing is that your toothbrush must be soft. Not medium or hard.

How to maintain your toothbrush:

 Manual or electric, the key to keeping your toothbrush in a healthy condition is by looking after it. After you have brushed your teeth, be sure to rinse it under tap water to flush away leftover toothpaste and saliva and store it in an upright position, allowing it to air-dry.

 Storing your toothbrush in a container may seem like the most hygienic way to keep it, but being inside of a closed space can create a bacteria breeding ground, so air-drying is best!

Also consider distancing your toothbrush from a sick spouse or child if you keep your toothbrushes together. The bacteria from their illness can latch onto your toothbrush and spread the bacteria to you or you family. Opt for a new toothbrush after being ill.

If you have any questions on your different options for toothbrushes, please contact your dentist. Appointments are available, please call (03) 9687 7786 or book online at www.dental4u.com.au

Dental health during COVID: individual oral hygiene is key

While Victoria, and most other states, are out of the woods after going through an intense lockdown due to COVID - we cannot be certain what the next 6-12 months will bring. Oral care, is as much -if not more- important during this period. At Dental4U we have always advocated that preventative oral care is the right and the smart thing to do to avoid dental health problems, and costly procedures. Prevention is definitely much better than cure.

As restrictions ease and we come closer to the festive season, we encourage everyone to think about their dental management routines, practice better brushing methods, flossing techniques, and diet - to sustain both their oral and overall health.

Some of our top oral hygiene tips:

• Brush twice daily for two minutes, using firm pressure and a soft (not hard or medium) toothbrush

• Take the time to review a good brushing technique - it is not about scrubbing at your teeth and gums, but using circular motions

• Floss, floss, floss to clean in between your teeth. These areas can hold food, debris and bacteria. Remember: if your gums bleed - they need more flossing, not less. Bleeding is a sign of debris and bacteria in between your gums. Healthy gums do not bleed.

• Avoid brushing straight after eating, especially if you eat an acidic food or drink. Ideally wait 45 minutes to allow extra time for the saliva components to break down the food in your mouth.

• Don’t neglect brushing the tongue. Clean the tongue using your toothbrush or a tongue scraper

• Regularly check everything in the mouth looks and feels normal. Look out for random bleeding and texture differences

• Avoid sugar as much as possible. Remember, that fruit also has sugar (fructose) so best to be mindful of what you are eating and reading all labels.

We are open and continue to see patients. For more information on your individualised care, contact us on 9687 7786 or reception@dental4u.com.au

Proper brushing techniques and the right tools can make a huge difference to your oral health.

The Importance of Flossing (every day)

THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOSSING

We get it! Flossing isn’t exactly the most enjoyable task, but it is very important for your oral health.

While daily brushing is essential, you are only cleaning approximately half the surface of your teeth, while the other half is hidden between the teeth.

By skipping this step in your daily oral hygiene routine, you are putting yourself at risk of gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis (“bad breath”) and no body wants any of those things (especially the bad breath!)

HOW TO FIX THIS ISSUE

Whether you are an early riser or a night owl, it is best to floss when you have the time to focus on getting the technique right. Fitting a few extra minutes into your oral hygiene routine either in the morning or at night will point you in the right direction for a healthy and happy mouth.

TECHNIQUE

Everyone starts somewhere, and with each floss, it will become easier and quicker to effectively remove any unwanted plaque/food from between the teeth. Follow these easy steps:

1.   Start by winding approximately 45cm of floss around your middle fingers, creating a tight and secure thread

2.   Using your thumb and index finger, guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle movement (it usually works best to start from the back teeth and work your way around, ensuring you don’t miss any gaps)

3.   Using an up and down motion, glide the floss, between the tooth and gum on either side of the gum

4.   Gentle lift the floss out and use a fresh section of the floss for the next gap

If you are still unsure, your dentist will happily demonstrate the correct technique at your next check-up appointment!

WHAT IF USING FLOSS IS TOO DIFFICULT?

Due to reasons such as poor hand/finger mobility, tight/wide gaps, orthodontic appliances (braces/wire), bridges, crowns or dental implants, there are options other than floss that is available to purchase at either your dental practice or pharmacy/supermarket.

These include:

- Interdental brushes: These often look like little bottlebrushes. They come in various sizes, depending on the gaps between your teeth (your dentist can advise which size is best) and are most beneficial for people with gum disease, braces, crowns and bridges, etc. They work by gently pushing the brush between the teeth at the gum line. They are often used in conjunction with flossing.

- Water flossers: This appliance works by spraying water in between the teeth, flushing away trapped food/plaque. It is easy to use and is suitable for all patients, especially patients with a lot of bridge work or orthodontic treatment.

- Floss picks: These little “c” shaped plastic picks have the floss fixed in place and are ideal for patients who find it tricky to floss with regular dental floss, making access easier.

- Superfloss: This kind of floss comes with a slightly thicker and sturdier plastic at one end and a spongy, stretchy like floss, designed to make it easier to thread the floss between gaps. This is ideal for patients with braces/metal wire or bridge work.

Before using any alternatives to floss, please contact your dentist to be advised on which option is best for you and how to use them correctly and effectively.

 Appointments are available at Dental4U, please call (03) 9687 7786 or book online www.dental4u.com.au

The effects of sugar on your oral health

The effects of sugar on your oral health

It is nearly impossible to eliminate ALL sugar from our diets, but it is possible be aware of and limit how much sugar is being consumed day to day.

Tooth decay is a disease that is significantly linked to the foods and drinks that we put into our mouths. The sugar that is present in these foods and drinks latch onto the bacteria lurking on our teeth and gums and begins to turn this sugar into acid, which is then spread onto the tooth’s surface, gradually drawing out healthy minerals from the tooth.

If this happens only once, it’s not a big deal, but if this is continually happening, and nothing is done to stop it, it can and will result in tooth decay, which means a trip to your dentist is needed in the near future!

What is the recommended daily sugar allowance?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that for a healthy adult, sugar intake should be equal to 5% of their daily energy intake (measured in kilo joules (kJ)) the recommended kJ for an Australian adult is 8,700kJ. This is beneficial to not only overall health, but also to minimising the chance of tooth decay.

Calculating 5% of total energy intake (kJ):

5% of 8,700kJ

0.05 x 8700 = 435kJ 

1 teaspoon of sugar = approximately 68kJ

So for an adult with the daily energy intake of 8,700kJ, 5% of this equals 6.3 teaspoons of sugar per day.

Ways to prevent tooth decay:

• Learn how to read nutritional labels:

The sugar content will be listed on the food/drink’s Nutritional Information label, usually located on the back of the product. When comparing the amount of sugar in various foods or drinks, always compare by the 100ml/100g amount. This way you will get a more accurate representation of how which product has less sugar.

Once you have calculated your recommended daily sugar intake, you can use that information paired with the Nutritional Information to start making healthier choices. 

• Be wary of “hidden” sugars!

Companies often disguise additional sugar by listing them as a different name. Below is a list of 60 different names for sugars that you may find listed in the ingredients on the back of your product.

• Drink water, not soft drinks!

Soft drinks, energy drinks, cordial, flavoured water/milk, juice, smoothies, the list goes on! All of these drinks are packed with sugars, which as we now know can result in formation of tooth decay. Not only is water sugar free, calorie free and amazing for your health, in most parts of Australia water also contains fluoride, which helps to prevent tooth decay!

Drinking water after meals can also help to dislodge food stuck between the teeth, which is great news for people who have that work meeting scheduled after lunch!

• Chew on sugar-free gum!

Studies show that chewing on sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating can increase the saliva that is present in the mouth. Saliva is a natural shield for your teeth and can prevent tooth decay by neutralising acid from sugar consumption. So after eating, try and chew on some sugar-free gum.

For more information, please contact your dentist. Appointments are available at Dental4U, please call (03) 9687 7786 or book online www.dental4u.com.au

New Scientific Discovery about Tooth Enamel

Northwestern University scientists have gotten one step closer to figuring out what can compromise tooth enamel. 

Tooth enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body. Enamel covers the crown which is the part of the tooth that's visible outside of the gums. Scientists have now also discovered impurity atoms. The information will enable us to explore how enamel becomes soluble—and also how we can strengthen it.

Here is the original scientific paper should you would like to dive in deeper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2433-3

[Photo by Nhia Moua on Unsplash]