The Functional Medicine Approach To Oral Health

Microbiome

The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem with significant implications for overall health. Todd LePine explains that the mouth hosts hundreds of organisms, with about 45% of these bacteria also found in the digestive tract. This connection means that oral bacteria can influence systemic inflammation, potentially affecting joints, the heart, and the brain 1.

You can't see the types of bacteria that you have in your mouth. And not only that, but your individual immune response to the bacteria is really critical.

--- Todd LePine

Mark Hyman adds that addressing dental issues can often resolve other systemic health problems 1.

   

Optimizing

Optimizing the oral microbiome involves various strategies, including supplementation and herbal therapies. Mark Hyman highlights the importance of nutrients like CoQ10, vitamin C, and vitamin D for maintaining oral health. He also shares an anecdote about an herbal gum tonic that significantly improved his oral microbiome 2.

There's an article from 2020 about oil pulling and the benefits of oil pulling on the oral microbiome and oral hygiene.

--- Todd LePine

Todd LePine discusses the use of oral probiotics and antimicrobial products to balance the microbiome and address issues like halitosis 3.