Did you know there’s often a 20-year gap between living a vibrant life and merely existing? While we’re living longer, polypharmacy is largely responsible for this extended lifespan. In the past, unsanitary conditions claimed lives; today, we face the opposite challenge. Our environment is more sanitized than ever—think antibacterial soap, hand sanitizers, mouthwashes, and an array of chemical-laden personal care products.

But while we’re winning the sanitation battle, we must ask: At what cost? Sure, we’re keeping harmful bacteria at bay, but what about the beneficial bacteria that play critical roles in our health? Just like any living organism, bacteria are sensitive to environmental changes—they need the right balance of temperature and a food source to thrive. In dentistry, for example, we know that cavities won’t form unless specific bacteria are present and fed the right fuel (hello, sugar!).

The balance of good bacteria in the oral environment is not just essential for oral health—it’s crucial for overall wellness. Here’s why:

The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body, offering critical clues about your health. Bad breath? It could indicate digestive issues or oral disease. Bleeding gums? A sign of inflammation. A bad taste? You might be dealing with an infection. We can’t easily see what’s going on inside our bodies, but our mouths—teeth, gums, and tongues—tell a vivid story.

How often do you inspect your tongue? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the tongue is a diagnostic tool for identifying imbalances in the body. Each section of the tongue corresponds to an organ system. A dry, cracked tongue might indicate your body needs more moisture, guiding you to choose hydrating foods. What’s remarkable is how quickly these shifts can reflect in your tongue's appearance.

As dental professionals, we weren’t taught to include tongue diagnosis in treatment planning. Most of us focus on checking for oral cancer or instructing patients to clean their tongues better if we see buildup. But we can do more—we must do more.

Imagine if dental hygienists embraced a functional approach, considering the entire body in their care. Picture testing saliva not just for bacterial levels but for hormone imbalances as well. After all, hormones, like gut health, profoundly influence our well-being.

This delicate gut microbiome is one of the most significant pieces in the health puzzle. Sadly, we’ve done a stellar job of disrupting it. Processed foods, preservatives, artificial flavors, and sweeteners, not to mention sugar or its substitutes, have wreaked havoc on our gut flora. These foods increase acidity, fueling the disease process by killing off beneficial bacteria and feeding harmful ones.

Yet, even small lifestyle changes can create a powerful ripple effect. Here are some actionable steps to start thriving today:

1. Meal Prep for Success – Pick one day a week to plan and prep your meals. When time gets tight, it’s too easy to reach for junk food. Instead, choose meals with high-quality protein, essential fats, and healthy carbohydrates.

2. Mocktails Over Cocktails – Alcohol isn’t brain or liver-friendly, but you can enjoy delicious beverages using herbs that calm and support your body.

3. Move More – Start by walking three times a week, then gradually incorporate weight-bearing exercises. As we age, especially women, building muscle becomes even more important.

4. Smart Substitutions – Giving up sugar isn’t easy, but some excellent alternatives are available. Xylitol, derived from natural plant materials, is one of my favorites. Avoid artificial sweeteners like Splenda, which studies (including one from Duke University) suggest can harm your brain. And I don’t know about you, but I need to keep my brain intact!

So, which step will you take first?