Episode 28 - A Healthy Oral Microbiome - Practical Dental and Lifestyle Advice with Dr. Surina Sehgal

3 Feb

Healthily | 02/03/22

Dr Surina Sehgal is a dentist on a mission to help people prevent issues with dental health, as she understands the impact of the oral microbiome on the whole body. In this episode, I quiz Surina on the best ways to support good oral health, why it's so important, and practical measures we can take for ourselves, including diet and what dental products we should consider, including toothpaste. It was fascinating learning from Surina, and I hope you find this episode helpful.

TAKEAWAYs

✔️ Oral Health Starts With Lifestyle

Surina emphasizes that good oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. Diet, hydration, stress management, and overall lifestyle habits directly impact the condition of your teeth and gums.

✔️ Mouth-Gut Connection

The mouth is the entry point of the digestive system. Poor oral health—like cavities or gum disease—can introduce harmful bacteria into the gut, affecting digestion, immunity, and even brain and cardiovascular health.

✔️ Nutrition Tips for Healthy Teeth:

Minimize frequent snacking to maintain neutral oral pH and prevent enamel erosion.
Eat fiber-rich foods and a variety of vegetables to support beneficial oral bacteria.
Limit sticky foods and dried fruits that adhere to teeth.

✔️ Oral Care Practices:

Brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste. Avoid rinsing immediately after brushing to allow fluoride to work.
Floss or use interdental brushes daily to remove plaque from areas a toothbrush cannot reach.
Mouthwash is supplemental, not a substitute for brushing.

For children or sensitive mouths, consider SLS-free toothpaste like Zenium, which also supports oral microbiome health.

✔️ Practical Advice

Don’t overcomplicate oral care with expensive products—consistency matters more than novelty.
Preventive care is key: see your dentist every 6 months, or more frequently if you have gum disease.
Simple, enjoyable habits like brushing with children can make dental routines sustainable.

✔️ Debunking Myths

DIY toothpaste or abrasive whitening products should be used sparingly to avoid enamel wear.
Natural sweeteners like xylitol are safe for teeth and can stimulate saliva, which protects enamel.
Brushing immediately after meals can damage enamel; wait 30 minutes for pH restoration.

Surina’s holistic approach highlights that oral health is not isolated—it’s intertwined with your overall wellbeing. Small, consistent habits in diet, oral care, and lifestyle can prevent disease, improve your microbiome, and enhance your quality of life.