🦷 Mondays with Mark: Biofilms are not the enemy + a critical tip for those who skip breakfast

For decades, our profession has vilified biofilms, but the truth is, they are essential for our oral microbiome to function properly.

Biofilms play a crucial role in communication (remineralization), metabolism (nutrition), and defense (immunity).

Our role, as both patients and providers, is to support a healthy biofilm, not to disrupt or disinfect it. Disrupting the biofilm can lead to oral and systemic diseases.
This brings us to two important considerations:

Are the products you use supporting a healthy biofilm?

It might be time to re-evaluate. Look for products that align with this philosophy, promoting oral health without harsh chemicals that disrupt the biofilm. Check the ingredients. Avoid products with essential oils, surfactants, alcohol, triclosan, and other harsh chemicals. Opt for natural, biofilm-friendly products.

Is your dentist aligned with this way of thinking?

If not, how is that affecting your oral and systemic health? A dentist who understands and supports the importance of a healthy biofilm is crucial for your overall well-being. Have a conversation with your dentist about their approach to biofilm. If they don’t prioritize a healthy biofilm, it might be time to find one who does. This one thing will affect your dental health AND your overall health—heart health, brain health, even mental health, because as I always say—the oral microbiome is everything, and oral health is connected to everything else in the body!

Supporting a healthy biofilm is not just about avoiding cavities or gum disease. It’s about maintaining a balanced oral ecosystem that supports your overall health. Disrupting this balance can lead to a host of issues, from systemic inflammation to immune system challenges.

New Study: Fasting & Periodontitis Risk

Also, if you’re an intermittent faster, listen up! Skipping breakfast might not be a good thing, especially when it comes to risk of periodontal disease. A new study from June 2024 shows that there is an independent association between intermittent fasting (skipping breakfast) and periodontitis.

How could this be? Skipping breakfast disrupts metabolic processes and increases inflammation, both of which contribute to higher risks of periodontitis and other systemic health issues. Regular breakfast consumption supports better metabolic balance, reduces inflammation, and promotes oral and overall health.

So, for now, my recommendation is that if you’re prone to gum disease or are being treated for it, make sure you’re having a high-protein breakfast every morning, like eggs or a whey protein shake. My favorite whey protein shake is by Paleo Valley.

Mark

P.S. Fygg toothpaste is a product of this new way of thinking—no essential oils, no surfactants, and no fluoride. Get 15% off your first order with code ATD15.