Oral Health
The health of your mouth doesn’t just affect your teeth and gums. Because it’s the entry point to your digestive tract and respiratory system, bacteria in the mouth can cause infection, disease, and illness in all parts of the body. Untreated gum disease (gingivitis) can cause periodontal disease, a serious infection that can spread to the jaw and bones and set off an inflammatory response in the body. Gum disease has been linked to heart infection, diabetes, pneumonia and even Alzheimer’s disease. Cavities and tooth decay can cause distracting pain, depression, and harm self-esteem. Brushing and flossing after meals and regular dental cleanings can help prevent infections, gum disease, and tooth infections. Avoiding tobacco and reducing sugary drinks, candy, and sweetened foods can also help promote better oral health and help prevent cancer.
When Brushing Is Not Enough: How Xylitol Changes Oral Health
The best weapon against cavity-causing bacteria doesn't kill them–it tricks them.
Diabetes Can Sweeten Your Saliva, Increase Cavity Risk
'Sweet saliva' develops as fructose and glucose leak from blood vessels.
Missed Your Dental Cleanings? The Hidden Risks Are More Serious Than You Think
Oral health issues can spread beyond your mouth, affecting blood pressure, inflammation, and even long-term heart wellness.
27 Microbes Linked to Pancreatic Cancer, Major Study Finds
Scientists discover how gum disease bacteria may trigger pancreatic cancer.
Gum Disease Linked to Nearly Doubled Stroke Risk in Major Study
Experts say regular dental care may protect your brain and heart.
Mouth Ulcers Can Be Treated at Home—Here’s How
Experts suggest home remedies, including salt water or chamomile tea rinses, to aid in healing and reduce pain.
Hair Protein May Be Used for Dental Fillings
Researchers developed a keratin-based toothpaste ingredient that can repair early tooth decay without drilling.
How 1 Pantry Staple Helps Fight Acid, Inflammation, and Disease
Experts weigh in on the potential benefits and drawbacks of baking soda.
Teeth Grinding May Lead to Headaches and Jaw Pain–How to Find Relief
COVID-19 and other stressors have contributed to increased teeth grinding, experts say.
How Oral Health Could Shape Cognitive Decline
Simple dental hygiene habits and a diet rich in fibrous fruits and vegetables may reduce your risk of dementia.
Missing Teeth, Big Consequences: When and How to Restore Your Smile
Factors of consideration for tooth replacements include age, bone health, preference, and budget.
Dysbiosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches
Dysbiosis is an imbalance in the body’s microbes that can disrupt digestion, immunity, and mood, contributing to chronic health issues.
Canker Sores: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches
Canker sores are common, affecting up to 50 percent of people during their lifetime.
Your Genes May Make Starches Riskier for Tooth Decay
The number of copies of a specific gene affects your oral health, cavity risk, and how bacteria respond to starch in your mouth.
Another Reason to Floss: Protection From Stroke
In addition to supporting oral health, flossing may protect the heart and brain, according to recent research.
Periodontitis: A Potential Trigger for Chronic Systemic Inflammation
Periodontal disease is more than just an oral issue—it could be a hidden threat to overall health.
Esophageal Cancer: Risk Factors and Dietary Strategies for Prevention
This cancer often slips under the radar due to the esophagus's lack of sensory receptors, meaning symptoms may go unnoticed until the disease has advanced.
Sugar-Free Gum May Reduce Preterm Birth Rates: Study
A large-scale study in Africa found a 30 percent reduction in very-low-birth-weight babies born to pregnant women who chewed xylitol-sweetened gum.
1 in 5 US Adults Face Untreated Tooth Decay, CDC Finds
Half of all children aged 6 to 9 years have had cavities in their primary or permanent teeth.
Good Bacteria Against Breast Cancer and IBS
How beneficial bacteria can help counter breast cancer and improve skin and emotional health. Watch our exclusive episode, only on NTD. “Ladies with breast cancer have much more in the ...
Bone Marrow Cancer Drug Shows Success in Treating Rare Blood Disorder
A single patient served as the driving force behind the clinical trial.
New Antibiotic Fights Severe Gum Disease
A narrow-spectrum antibiotic targets harmful bacteria involved in severe gum disease and linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease and Alzheimer's.
Oil Pulling—an Ancient Practice With Modern Health Benefits
Oil pulling is a time-tested remedy, scientifically researched to be as effective as Chlorhexidine mouthwash, but without adverse effects.
Link Between Methylglyoxal and Cancer Poses Questions About Manuka Honey
Prized for its unique antibacterial properties, emerging evidence suggests that manuka honey may take on a tumor-promoting role in cancer.
Tongue-Tie Surgeries in Babies on the Rise: American Academy of Pediatrics Report
The AAP notes a growing trend in tongue-tie diagnoses and surgical interventions in babies despite lack of clinical consensus on treatment options.
Lack of Vitamin D Associated With Dental Cavities in Older Adults: Study
A new study reveals an inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and the risk of dental cavities in people ages 65 and older.
Scientists Harness Gold Nanoparticles to Fight Infection Without Antibiotics
A new animal study uses gold nanoparticles for both creating images of and destroying biofilms on teeth and skin wounds.