Understanding the Morning Oral Care Routine
Dr. Mark Burhenne, a renowned natural dentist, emphasizes the importance of establishing a thorough and mindful oral care routine. He suggests starting your day by understanding the products you use and how they impact your oral microbiome. Some products might be harmful and negatively affect this microbiome, making it essential to choose wisely.
The Role of the Oral Microbiome
The oral microbiome consists of various bacteria, some of which promote health while others can lead to oral diseases such as cavities and gum disease. However, Dr. Burhenne points out that indiscriminately killing these bacteria can be harmful. The goal should be to maintain a symbiotic balance rather than a disbiotic one.
Evening Routine for Optimal Oral Health
Dr. Burhenne recommends brushing and flossing before bed with non-minty, non-bactericidal toothpaste. Minty toothpastes can stimulate the brain and disrupt sleep. He also advises using floss to break up the biofilm, allowing remineralizing agents in the toothpaste to work more effectively.
Mouth Taping for Stable Oral pH
One lesser-known tip shared by Dr. Burhenne is using mouth tape at night. Taping the mouth closed can help maintain the saliva’s pH balance, which is crucial for a healthy oral microbiome. This habit can prevent dry mouth and bad breath upon waking.
Morning Oral Care Essentials
Upon waking, keeping hydrated is key. Dr. Burhenne suggests drinking a full glass of water and considering adding electrolytes. He follows this by using a hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste, which provides the necessary minerals to the teeth after a night with reduced saliva flow.
Importance of Tongue Scraping
In addition to brushing and flossing, Dr. Burhenne highlights the importance of tongue scraping both in the morning and before bed. This practice significantly contributes to maintaining a healthy oral microbiome by removing unwanted bacteria buildup on the tongue.
Mindful Eating and Oral Health
Dr. Burhenne advises against brushing immediately after consuming acidic or processed foods. Instead, he recommends waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing to prevent potential damage to the enamel caused by acid exposure.
Avoiding Harmful Products
Mouthwash, particularly those containing essential oils, is discouraged by Dr. Burhenne. Such products can negatively impact the oral microbiome by killing beneficial bacteria needed for processes like nitric oxide production, which is beneficial to cardiovascular health.
Daily Routine and Diet Considerations
Dr. Burhenne highlights the overall importance of a stable daily routine that includes proper oral hygiene practices and dietary considerations. He suggests using alternatives like xylitol gum to maintain oral pH levels when brushing isn’t immediately feasible.
Conclusion
Adopting a holistic approach to oral care can lead to better long-term health outcomes. Dr. Burhenne’s routine underlines the significance of understanding your body’s natural processes, selecting non-harmful products, and maintaining practices like mouth taping and tongue scraping to support a thriving oral microbiome.
