Generations of Smiles | Issue 17

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issue feb ‘25

Generations of Smiles Oral Health Means Better Health At Every Age and Every Stage

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Quality care from sea to shining sea.

Your Saliva Could Be Sending Signals About Your Long-Term Health Your saliva has more to say about your overall health than you may have known. In fact, you probably didn’t realize it had anything to say at all.

If you’ve been with us for a while, you’ve heard us refer to the Mouth-Body Connection® to explain the role of harmful bacteria and inflammation in the mouth in chronic systemic disease. Research continues to show strong links with diabetes, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s and more.

Saliva screening identifies these links by determining whether you have active breakdown of collagen, often used as a biomarker for gum disease. It can also predict the likelihood of developing symptoms of disease in the future.

Nearly half the world’s adult population1 is plagued by periodontitis, but it usually goes unnoticed until it develops into serious gum disease. By identifying the telltale enzyme2, activated matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8)—an indicator of inflammation in the gums—your dentist can help you preserve your whole-body health.

In the past, this type of screening required samples to be ordered from your doctor and sent out for laboratory analysis. But thanks to an investment in cutting-edge technology, Smile Generation-trusted dentists can now offer these saliva screenings during your regular dental visits.3 By decoding the signals in your saliva, you hold the key to valuable insights into your health. As we observe Gum Disease Awareness Month this February, I encourage you to take the opportunity to prioritize your oral health and consider how saliva screening could be sending you a signal for a healthier, longer life.

Until next time,

Dr. Carolyn Ghazal, DDS

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Keep smiling!

It's good for your heart.

Contents How to Cope When Stress Sets Your Teeth on Edge Explore how stress impacts oral health and practical tips for protection and relief.

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Cheers to Your Health: The Truth About Alcohol and Oral Health Dr. Christopher K. Tolmie on reducing alcohol to help protect your teeth, gums, and overall well-being.

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Heart-Healthy Foods Eat the colors of the rainbow? Learn how for a healthier you!

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Special Olympics' Inclusion Pledge Join us in pledging with Special Olympics to create a more inclusive world for all.

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How to Cope When Stress Sets Your Teeth on Edge Teeth clenching.

Heart pounding.

Blood pressure rising.

Stress causes a cascade of responses in the body, including the release of chemicals like cortisol, which can cause inflammation throughout the body–including the teeth and gums.

In fact, Hwang Dong-hyuk, the creator of the hit TV show “Squid Games,” confessed that stress during filming caused him to lose nine teeth! 1

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Long-term stress can contribute to a host of oral health issues, including:

• Canker sores. By sending your immune system into overdrive, your body may start to produce canker sores, small spots with white or grayish centers surrounded by red borders inside the mouth that can cause pain when chewing or talking.

• Cold sores. Unlike canker sores, cold sores (also called fever

blisters) are contagious. These painful, fluid-filled sores in and around the mouth are caused by the herpes simplex virus and seem to be triggered by the immune system during times of stress.

• Bruxism. Also known as teeth clenching and grinding, this common

response to stress can wear down or chip teeth, cause jaw pain, and strain muscles in the face. Because most teeth grinding occurs during sleep, your dentist might recommend you wear a night guard to bed.

• Tooth decay and gum disease. Stress has been linked2 to dry

mouth, a condition that allows oral bacteria to grow, which, in turn, can lead to cavities, gingivitis and tooth loss.

How can you protect your mouth when stress has set your teeth on edge?

• Eat well. “Comfort food” is no comfort to your health.

Choosing fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein can actually help improve your mood and give you the nourishment you need to cope with stressful situations.

• Treat your teeth. Wear your night guard! It’s not doing

you any good on your nightstand. And if you have mouth sores, talk to your doctor or dentist about over-the-counter and prescription medications that could help.

• Breathe. Practicing relaxation techniques can help calm

the heart, unknot the muscles and center the body and mind.

From mindfulness to breathing exercises, yoga and meditation, relaxation techniques abound. Find a method that is right for you and make time to practice it.

• Talk to someone. Your dentist can help with your oral health.

But sometimes a behavioral health expert or other professional can help you find ways to cope with the stress underlying your oral health issues.

For more information, check out the National Center for Health, Behavioral Health, and Safety’s tips for managing stress3 and supporting social and emotional well-being. 4 7

TO YOUR HEALTH: THE TRUTH ABOUT ALCOHOL AND ORAL HEALTH

By Christopher K. Tolmie, DDS, MBA

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While Dry January may have passed, the benefits of reducing alcohol consumption extend far beyond your overall health—they can significantly improve the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums.

Studies show that heavy and regular alcohol consumption can make individuals more susceptible to gum disease and other oral health issues.

As dentists, we frequently encounter problems caused by the combined effects of dry mouth, high sugar content, and acidic conditions—a trifecta created by alcohol consumption.

Alcohol acts as a diuretic, reducing saliva flow and causing dry mouth, which can contribute to oral health issues and even impact digestion.

Saliva plays a crucial role

in maintaining a healthy mouth by clearing debris, delivering nutrients to strengthen enamel, and providing immune factors that protect gum tissue. Without sufficient saliva, harmful bacteria can thrive, leading to gum disease and tooth decay.

The acidity of alcoholic beverages weakens enamel, creating an environment where bacteria can cause even more damage.

Additionally, sugary cocktails can feed harmful bacteria, exacerbating the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Alcohol also weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections like gum disease.

Despite these risks, many patients are unaware of the connection between alcohol and oral health.

This is partly because there are no immediate symptoms after consuming alcohol. Dentists often notice signs during routine exams, such as unusual patterns of enamel erosion or wear, which can indicate frequent exposure to acidic substances. These findings prompt conversations to uncover lifestyle habits that may be contributing to the damage.

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Discussing alcohol consumption can be challenging, as patients are often hesitant to share details about their habits. For example, someone might mention drinking club soda daily without noting that it’s mixed with vodka.

However, creating a safe and judgment-free environment encourages more open dialogue, allowing dentists to offer tailored advice.

1. Drink an equal amount of water for every alcoholic beverage you consume to counteract dehydration and rebalance the acidity in your mouth.

To minimize alcohol’s impact on oral health, consider these practical tips:

3. Choose water or salt water for rinsing your mouth after drinking rather than mouthwash, which can eliminate beneficial bacteria.

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2. Chew sugar-free gum or eat crunchy vegetables to stimulate saliva flow.

If you’re planning a night out, protect your teeth by ordering water alongside your drink, keeping sugar-free gum handy, and opting for crunchy vegetables as an appetizer. After drinking, wait 30 to 45 minutes before brushing your teeth to allow saliva to restore a neutral pH. Brushing too soon can damage softened enamel. By adopting these small habits, you can enjoy social occasions while maintaining a healthy, confident smile. Reducing alcohol consumption not only benefits your overall health but also safeguards your teeth and gums, ensuring they stay strong and healthy for years to come.

Dr. Christopher K. Tolmie, DDS, MBA is a multi-practice owner in South Florida, focusing on comprehensive oral health through his Mouth-Body Connection® philosophy. He holds dual doctorates in dental surgery (University of Maryland) and osteopathic medicine (Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine), along with an MBA from the University of Miami.

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Heart-Healthy F

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While eating more fruits and vegetables is always a good idea, eating the colors of the rainbow will increase your intake of nutrients and improve your overall health, including your heart and your brain1.

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RED PINK

&

ORANGE

YELLOW

GREEN

&

WHITE

beets cherries cranberries pink grapefruit pomegranates radicchio red apples

corn bananas lemons mangoes peppers pineapples yellow squash yellow peppers

BLUE PURPLE blackberries blueberries dates eggplants grapes plums prunes purple figs raisins

acorn squash apricots cantaloupes carrots nectarines peaches pumpkins sweet potatoes yams

avocados broccoli collard greens green beans limes okra pears spinach zucchini

cauliflower garlic artichokes mushrooms onions potatoes parsnips shallots

Add color to your plate each day with the five main color groups.

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Increasing Access to Care Smile Generation partners with Special Olympics International to support athletes in their journey to finding great dental care and understanding the importance of good oral hygiene. Together we are bridging the gap that patients with intellectual disabilities have in receiving comprehensive oral healthcare.

Join us in signing Special Olympics’ Inclusion Pledge.

Sign the pledge

#ChooseToInclude

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Gum disease can significantly impact heart health. That's why maintaining excellent oral health is crucial. Save 20-50% on most treatments with same-day discounts—no waiting.

Discover how the Smile Generation Dental Plan can enhance your health journey.

LEARN MORE 17

Healthie Happi Generations of Smiles A Smile Generation Magazine

LET'S DO THIS AGAIN! The Smile Generation exists to connect you with trusted dentists in your area and to offer education on the critical link between oral and overall health. We’d love to know what you think of our magazine.

DROP US A NOTE!

Sources Your Saliva Could Be Sending Signals About Your Long-term Health 1. Global Prevalence of Periodontal Disease and Lack of Its Surveillance 2. Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 as an Inflammatory and Prevention Biomarker in Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases 3. Matrix Metalloproteinase-8 as an Inflammatory and Prevention Biomarker in Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases

How to Cope When Stress Sets Your Teeth on Edge 1. ‘I lost nine teeth filming Squid Game’: BBC on set with show’s director 2. Effect of stress, anxiety and depression on unstimulated salivary flow rate and xerostomia 3. Managing Stress 4. Supporting Social and Emotional Well-being

Heart-Healthy Foods 1. Phytonutrients: Paint Your Plate With the Colors of the Rainbow

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