Why Does Oral Health Matter?
Oral health is incredibly important for not only having a healthy mouth but also a healthy body. When the mouth is not healthy, bacteria and other pathogens can enter the bloodstream through the gums, creating inflammation both locally in the mouth as well as systemically. Having a clean mouth not only improves oral health but also metabolic health as well!
What is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the periodontium (gums); which includes tissues such as the gingiva, periodontal ligaments, cementum, and bone. It is estimated that roughly 42.2% of adults older than 30 years old in the United States have some form of periodontitis, with 7.8% having severe periodontitis and 34.4% having non-severe periodontitis. (1) Things that can predispose people to periodontitis include smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and pregnancy. Symptoms of periodontitis may include gum inflammation, pain, redness, swelling, changes in texture, bleeding, calculus build up, increased tooth mobility, shifting of teeth, and, eventually, tooth loss. (2)
Standard of Care Treatments
Standard of care treatments may include cleaning, scaling, and root planning, as well as educating patients on proper oral hygiene practices (including brushing 2-3x daily, flossing 1x daily, rinsing with mouthwash, smoking cessation, and routine professional cleanings). (2) In more severe cases, other therapies may be used including antibiotics, pocket reduction surgery, as well as gingival / bone grafts. (3) The number one toothpaste type that is generally recommended by dentists and periodontists for periodontal disease is called stannous fluoride, which has been shown to be generally more effective than standard sodium fluoride in the treatment of periodontitis. (4)
Pros and Cons of Fluoride
Fluoridation seems to be very effective at reducing the rate of dental carries and helping to calcify enamel. Stannous fluoride has also been shown to reduce bacterial growth in those with periodontal infections. (4) However, fluoride may cause dental fluorosis, as well as neurological, endocrinological, and nephrological toxicity. (5,6) However, fluoride is still recommended by the American Dental Association and is considered generally safe to use for the promotion of optimal oral health. (7)
Adjunctive Treatment Options to Consider
Theobromine based Toothpaste: Theobromine, the active ingredient of cocoa, has been shown to mineralize carious lesions at rates more or comparable to sodium fluoride. (8) It is thought that this is due to theobromine’s ability to increase the activity of osteoprotegerin, which helps to increase osteoblast activity and therefore, tooth enamel remineralization. (9,10) Icariin (the active ingredient in Horny Goat Weed) has also been shown to increase osteoprotegerin signaling and thus, bone remineralization. (11,12,13) Essential Oil (including thymol, eucalyptol, and menthol) based mouthwashes have also showed promise in the treatment of periodontal disease by reducing calculi and gingival inflammation. (14,15)
Who Might Benefit?
Theobromine based toothpaste is great for people with or without periodontitis trying to improve their oral health. There are both fluoridated and non-fluoridated theobromine products available on the market. Although fluoride is a great way to improve enamel remineralization, theobromine-based toothpaste may be an effective alternative for those who decide to stay fluoride free; or may be a great addition to those already using fluoride products in their oral hygiene practices. Herbal medicines that work by increasing osteoprotegerin may also be a great adjunctive treatment alongside a well implemented oral hygiene regiment.
Let’s Improve Oral Health Together
If you’re ready to explore how naturopathic medicine can support oral health, we’re here to assist you. Schedule a visit with a Heart Spring Health provider to take the first step.
To schedule an appointment, call 503-956-9396 or contact us now to schedule an appointment today.
