You are never too old to learn, and hopefully always open to seeing a bigger picture. I have learned a lot regarding oral hygiene in the past few months, after seeing a new dentist and learning I had infection in my gums. Out of shock I submitted to a painful and invasive gum cleaning procedure, only to be left with nerve pain in my face for several weeks. What is routine for most people, is often too much for my sensitive constitution. Because of this, all my life, I have sought out alternative ways to promote health and wellness.

We all have an environment in our mouths (known as biofilm), just as we do in our gut, that keeps our gums and teeth healthy.  A healthy pH in the mouth is maintained by the saliva and should be between 7 to 7.4. This range is considered neutral. If the pH becomes acidic, we become susceptible to demineralization of the tooth enamel. Eating a balanced diet full of alkalizing foods and avoiding acidify foods like sugar and citrus, can be very helpful.

Here are some suggestions for you to consider for maintaining healthy biofilm in the mouth:

1. Avoid sugary foods and beverages. If you do consume these, follow with a water rinse.
2. Avoid snacking between meals.
3. After eating and swishing with water, chew a xylitol based gum to inhibit the growth of bacteria. There have been many studies showing that Xylitol enables some rebuilding of tooth enamel and can heal cavities in the teeth. Xylitol can be used after each meal or snack, several times a day as needed.
4. Consider using 2 toothbrushes, one in the am and one in the pm to allow the toothbrush to dry out completely between use.
5. Avoid consuming acidic beverages that change pH in the mouth and weaken tooth enamel.
6. Avoid brushing with abrasive cleaning agents. 

 Be well and happy oral health,

-Kate