Disease Prevention Begins in the Mouth and the Gut

As a dentist with over 35 years of experience, I have seen firsthand the connections between oral health and overall well-being. The oral-systemic link, which suggests that the earliest signs of disease can be found in the mouth, is often overlooked by most doctors and remains a foreign concept to many people. In this podcast episode, I will share my personal experiences observing the mouth-body connection and the importance of considering the mouth, nose, gut, saliva, pH, and microbiome in a routine dental exam. We will also discuss the oral cavity as a breeding ground for microorganisms and the links between oral health and chronic inflammation, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Join me to learn more about the vital role that our mouth plays in our overall health and well-being and the importance of a whole-health approach to healthcare. Key takeaways: -The oral-systemic link suggests that the earliest signs of disease can be found in the mouth. -The mouth, nose, gut, saliva, pH, and microbiome all play a role in oral health and should be considered in a routine dental exam. -The oral cavity is a breeding ground for microorganisms and oral health is linked to chronic inflammation, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. -Most doctors and many people are unaware of the oral-systemic link and its importance in overall health. -A whole-health approach to healthcare, which considers the interconnectedness of different parts of the body, is necessary for improving oral and overall health.