This week, we want to discuss healthy tooth and mouth care. Also, as we lead up to Thanksgiving, we wanted to share some tasty dishes to spice up your table. Check out our office schedule for next week and other happenings!
 

Fighting Tooth Decay with Diet

Skip the Sugar

If you are already following the Dr. P Protocol, this isn't a concern for you. Look, we know that sugar is terrible for us. It is a root cause of inflammation and disease. With respect to teeth, sugar is a major contributor to tooth decay caused by bacteria that feeds on sugar. This bacteria called plaque, sticks to your teeth and produces acids that eat through tooth enamel. One of the best things you can do for the health of your mouth is to skip the sugar. 
 

Reduce Phytic Acid Intake

Phytic acid impairs the absorption of iron, zinc and calcium, promoting mineral deficiencies in the body. It is also classified as an enzyme inhibitor and is often referred to as an anti-nutrient.  It is found in grains, nuts, seeds and beans. We blame the consumption of grains, a cornerstone of the Standard American Diet, to the spike in cases of mineral deficiency. This can present in the form of osteoporosis and weak teeth. About 80 percent of phosphorus in grains and beans is bound to phytic acid, rendering it unabsorbable. In addition to blocking phosphorus availability, these acid molecules bind to the minerals necessary for oral health. Phytic acid is much higher in foods grown using modern high-phosphate fertilizers than those grown in natural compost. When consuming nuts and seeds, find options that are organic and non-GMO. 
 

Consume Nutrient-Rich Foods

Increasing your fat-soluble vitamin intake (A,D, E, and K) as well as mineral intake will help to strengthen teeth and enamel. Consuming a diet rich in bone broth, meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and veggies (aka-the Dr. P Protocol) is best for ensuring that you are consuming the necessary vitamins and minerals. Also, make sure that you are getting enough vitamin D through time spent in the sun or through a vitamin D supplement. 
 

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is rooted in Ayurvedic medicine. It uses oil to clean and detoxify teeth and gums. Oil pulling fights harmful bacteria in the mouth, and has the added effect of naturally and gently whitening teeth. It is an effective method of cleansing your teeth including the smallest crevices along your molars that the bristles of your brush may not reach. As mentioned, bacteria is the root cause of bad breath, cavity formation, and gingivitis. These bacteria have fat-soluble membranes membranes that are broken down with the mechanical action of swishing and pulling oil. 

Whiten Teeth

Fight Halitosis

• Drink plenty of water. 
• Replace your toothbrush every two to three months.
• Chew a handful of cloves, fennel seeds, or anise seeds. Their antiseptic qualities help fight halitosis-causing bacteria.
• Chew a piece of organic, washed lemon rind. 
• Chew a fresh sprig of parsley, basil, mint, or cilantro. The chlorophyll in these green plants will neutralize odors.

Natural Toothpaste Recipe:

As we spoke about in last week's newsletter, there can be dangerous chemicals found in traditional drugstore toothpastes. Be sure to read the label of any purchased toothpaste, or you can make your own at home! There are lots of natural toothpaste recipes out there. Here's one to try. Just mix it in a glass, lidded jar and keep it next to your bathroom sink. 

• 4 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons baking soda
• 30 drops essential oils *Mix your own! We like a combo of peppermint and clove. :)
• 30 drops trace minerals *Directly applying trace minerals to teeth speeds up the remineralization process, especially if your diet has been lacking these essential nutrients.
• optional--stevia to taste