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
Use Piksters daily for interproximal cleaning 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!
Piksters: The Right Choice for Your Smile
When it comes to cleaning between your teeth, you’ve got options! While traditional string floss has been the go-to for decades, many dental professionals—like us—recommend interproximal brushes such as Piksters as a superior alternative.
Piksters are small, reusable brushes designed to fit between your teeth and remove plaque and debris with precision. They’re especially effective for people with wider spaces between teeth, dental work like bridges or implants, or those who find string floss difficult to use.
Using Piksters is simple—and once you get the hang of it, it only takes a few minutes a day!
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Choose the right size: Piksters come in a range of sizes to fit different gaps between your teeth. If you’re unsure, ask us at your next visit. We’re happy to help you find the perfect fit.
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Insert gently: Slide the brush gently between your teeth without forcing it. You want it to glide through comfortably.
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Move back and forth: Once in place, move the Pikster in and out a few times to dislodge plaque and food particles.
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Rinse and reuse: Rinse the brush after each use. Most Piksters can be reused several times—just replace them when the bristles start to wear down.
For best results, use daily after brushing. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in keeping your gums and teeth healthy!
