We’re taught about dental and oral health from a very young age and for most of us, we can go through life without even questioning if we’re doing it right or if what we’re doing is actually causing more issues than anything else. The truth is that dental and oral health is an essential part of our overall health and well-being. This week, I wanted to bring you some quick information on the topic plus a few sustainable brand recommendations for you to take care of your teeth and gums.
sustainable ORAL & DENTAL HEALTH
Like other areas of the body, the mouth is full of germs that are mostly harmless. But contrarily to other parts of our bodies, our mouths are the entry to both the digestive tract and the respiratory tracts. So sometimes germs in the mouth can lead to disease throughout the body. Most often the body’s defences and good oral care, from daily brushing to flossing, keep germs under control, but not all the time. First of all, without good oral hygiene, germs can lead to mouth infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Plus, bacteria from oral infections can enter the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body, which is why poor oral hygiene has been associated with various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Oral and dental health is not just about flossing and brushing; it also involves attending regular check-ups. Dentists can also identify symptoms that might indicate underlying health problems such as oral cancer, diabetes, or osteoporosis.
To support a sustainable approach to oral health, consider incorporating eco-friendly products into your routine. These products not only help maintain oral health but also reduce environmental impact. By choosing sustainable oral care products and maintaining regular check-ups, you contribute to both your personal well-being and the health of the planet.
As oral health is intricately linked to various systemic conditions, I wanted to bring you a few of the key health issues associated with oral health, so that you can be aware and understand how important it is to do these regular checkups.
Cardiovascular Disease
Poor oral health, particularly gum disease (periodontitis), has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Inflammation and bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, contributing to the formation of arterial plaques and inflammation, which can lead to cardiovascular problems.
Diabetes
There is a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease. Poor glycemic control in diabetic patients can lead to more severe periodontal disease, and severe periodontal disease can worsen blood glucose control, complicating diabetes management.
Respiratory Infections
Oral infections and poor oral hygiene can lead to the inhalation of bacteria into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory infections such as pneumonia. This is especially concerning in elderly individuals, very young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Pregnancy Complications
Poor oral health has also been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Even though it may seem surprising, infections and inflammation in the mouth can influence inflammatory processes throughout the body, affecting pregnancy too.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is evidence of a link between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both conditions involve chronic inflammation, and treating periodontal disease can sometimes help improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Emerging research suggests a possible link between periodontal disease and an increased risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic inflammation and bacteria from gum disease may contribute to brain inflammation and neurodegeneration.
Cancer
Some studies have found associations between poor oral health and certain types of cancer, including oral cancer, pancreatic cancer, and possibly other cancers. Chronic inflammation and infection may play a role in cancer development.
Chronic Kidney Disease
There is a connection between periodontal disease and chronic kidney disease. The inflammation and infection associated with gum disease may contribute to the progression of kidney disease.
Obesity
Obesity is also associated with an increased risk of periodontal disease. Both conditions involve systemic inflammation, and there may be shared risk factors and mechanisms linking them.
I’m aware some of these diseases sound like the extreme of what might happen if you don’t take good care of your oral health, but it is good to be aware of them. The truth is that, just like with everything else, maintaining good oral health is vital in preventing a range of health issues, supporting proper nutrition, and contributing to social confidence and quality of life, and I don’t see a reason why we shouldn’t be able to do that, and sustainably.
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ORAL HEALTH
While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they form just one part of a comprehensive oral care routine. Proper oral hygiene involves a combination of healthy habits, regular dental visits, a balanced diet, and lifestyle choices that contribute to keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums in peak condition. In this blog post, we’ll explore various strategies and tips that can help you take a proactive approach to your oral health, ensuring a bright smile and a healthy body.
Maintain good oral hygiene
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices by brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Ensure thorough cleaning between your teeth by using floss, a water flosser, or other interdental cleaning products to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Regularly replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are frayed, as worn-out bristles are less effective at cleaning your teeth.
MAINTAIN A balanced diet
- Support your oral health by consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting sugary foods and beverages that can contribute to tooth decay.
HAVE REGULAR DENTAL CHECK-UPS
- Schedule annual dental checkups and cleanings to monitor your oral health status, address any emerging issues promptly, and receive professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations for additional visits or cleanings based on your individual oral health needs. If you require specialised gum care, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for further treatment, and that’s good. When referred to a periodontist, you are effectively being looked at by a specialist.
- Be vigilant and contact your dentist promptly if you experience any oral health concerns such as toothaches, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or unusual changes in your mouth. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into more significant problems and safeguard your overall well-being.
Avoid using tobacco products
- Avoid using tobacco products, as they not only harm your oral health by increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss but also have detrimental effects on your overall health.
Understanding the profound connection between your mouth and your body underscores the importance of a holistic approach to dental care. By making these practices a regular part of your routine, you’ll not only ensure a brighter, healthier smile but also support your overall well-being for years to come. Remember, a healthy mouth is a gateway to a healthy life.
BRAND RECOMMENDATIONS
As usual, it’s time for your favourite part of my articles – my sustainable brand recommendations. Today, they’re all dental care focused, and if you’re unsure about how these companies can make oral health more environmentally friendly, don’t worry as I’ll also explain why!
Truthbrush
UK based and female founded brand Truthbrush, is an eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and vegan toothbrush made from organic bamboo with plant-based bristles derived from 100% castor bean oil, reducing fossil fuel reliance.
The brand is backed by the School for Social Entrepreneurs, a member of 1% for the Planet, and a certified B-Corp, meeting high ethical and sustainable standards. Truthbrush is celebrated for creating the world’s first solid bamboo electric toothbrush head and is one of the few brands using plant-based bristles. It has won multiple awards, including the Veggie Awards Health and Wellbeing category, judged by Jasmine Hemsley, and the Eco Excellence Oral Care Award.
Each brush is hand-wrapped in fully recyclable packaging, with carbon emissions from shipping offset. They also have your needs sorted with their subscribe and save feature. In fact, you can choose the frequency you’d like to receive new toothbrushes on their website and save 33% when you do. Their toothbrush is designed to look good in your bathroom and they have colour and size options for adults and kids too. I high recommend this brand for sustainable oral care!
Lochtree
Lochtree is a US-based company that is building a marketplace and community that promotes positive environmental change and provides high-quality, convenient eco-friendly products. Here you can find plastic-free toothpaste tablets, mouthwash tablets, silk dental floss and lots of different types of non-plastic toothbrushes. Just have a browse here and start your eco-friendly swaps!
Georganics
Georganics originated from a profound realisation about a pressing issue that affects us all involuntarily. Each year, about 230,000 tonnes of plastic waste are disposed of in the Mediterranean Sea, as reported by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Equally concerning are the yearly statistics regarding materials and cosmetics used in oral hygiene: 3,000 tonnes of waste from toothpaste tubes and approximately 5 billion toothbrushes are discarded in landfills. Compounding this issue is the fact that the majority of conventional plastic toothpaste tubes cannot be recycled due to their composite nature, combining different materials.
Considering that most of us brush our several times a day, Georganics came up with a comprehensive range of natural oral care that reduces the waste of plastic in this industry. From their mineral toothpaste sold in glass jars – like the spearmint flavour, a personal favourite of mine – to beechwood toothbrushes, mouthwash tablets and compostable dental floss, they have literally solved the plastic issue within the industry.
Their range is sustainable certified, as the company currently holds four different certifications: The Vegan Trademark, Cruelty Free International, Cosmos Organic & Cormos Natural.
Natural Collection
Natural Collection is an online marketplace committed to helping ethical consumers Buy What they Believe in. The online shop has the widest range of the finest quality fair trade, organic and eco-friendly products, and only brand who have a positive impact on people and/or the environment. From Fairtrade and organic grocery shopping to energy-efficient gadgets and unique ethical gifts that directly benefit the people who made them.
Natural Collection sells products from leading ethical brands as well as supporting independent traders and producers across the world and has a really strict screening process so that you can be sure of what you buy. In order for a product or brand to be sold by Natural Collection, it must have established ethical credentials in at least one of the following areas: Fair Trade, organic, eco-friendly, health and wellness promotion, education and awareness building, locally produced and giving back to charity. When it comes to products relatingto oral health, my absolute favourite from their selection is their interdental brushes with bamboo handles.
Eco Roots
Eco Roots is another US-based eco-friendly brand is focusing its attention on all things plastic-free when it comes to personal care as well as home. From natural deodorants to shampoo bars, dish soap bars and even plastic-free lip balms, they have it all! When it comes to their oral health, they sell a floss and refill bundle that is to die for. Bamboo dental floss in a reusable glass jar with lots of floss refills for only £20.
suri
You might have seen this already on social media, but many, including me, are loving the SURI sonic toothbrush for its exceptional clean and minimal impact on our planet, contrary to plastic toothbrushes! With plant-based heads made from corn starch and bristles from castor oil, these toothbrushes are bio-based and reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics. Additionally, SURI will recycle the heads for free in the UK and US if sent back.
The body of the SURI toothbrush is made from aluminum, ensuring it is long-lasting and easily recycled, with users likely keeping the same one for years. Boasting a 40+ day battery life, it also offers a UV-C light case, magnetic mirror mount, and other minimalist accessories. In the long run, this toothbrush not only reduces waste ending up in landfills but also saves money. The brand is currently awaiting B Corp approval.
SURI has partnered with ClimatePartner to offset 100% of the brushes’ emissions, including their manufacture and transportation. The company is committed to reducing and offsetting its carbon footprint each year. More information about Climate Neutral Certified Standards and SURI’s offset projects can be found here. You can explore the capsule collection here.
waken
Working closely with dentists and formulation chemists, Waken has crafted a set of products that perform brilliantly, offering solutions such as exceptional whitening toothpaste and mouthwash that delivers 12-hour protection for teeth and gums.
Sustainability is at the heart of Waken’s products. Their toothpaste tubes are made from recycled and endlessly recyclable aluminum, cartons from FSC-certified cardboard, and mouthwash bottles from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. Waken’s commitment to sustainability ensures consumers can make confident, eco-friendly choices. Additionally, Waken Mouthcare offers a like-for-like take-back service for their sonic toothbrushes, allowing customers to return old electric toothbrushes for responsible disposal within 28 days of purchasing a new one. This service helps prevent WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) from being improperly disposed of, reducing environmental damage.
In the UK, some councils offer WEEE collection services alongside standard recycling. The crossed-out wheelie bin symbol on household electrical equipment serves as a reminder that WEEE products can be recycled and should not be disposed of with household waste. By participating in Waken’s WEEE Take-back scheme, customers ensure the proper disposal of old electric toothbrushes and contribute to protecting the environment, helping reduce electronic waste and its harmful impact.
Waken products are highly effective, developed with dental experts to ensure proven results for teeth and gums. They contain natural mint and other extracts for an authentic taste and are packaged thoughtfully using recycled and sustainable materials. Certified suitable for vegans, Waken products never contain materials from animal sources, making them a responsible choice for oral care.
If you have any other brand recommendations I would love to hear about them – please feel free to message me in the box below.
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