Professor Alp Kantarci discusses the crucial link between oral health and overall health, highlighting the impact of oral health on conditions like Alzheimer's, heart disease, and diabetes.
He emphasizes the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing teeth at least two to three times a day, flossing, and using mouthwash in moderation.
He also cautions about the potential risks of certain probiotics for oral health and mentions ongoing research on medications and immune-boosting compounds to improve oral health.
In addition, he stresses the significance of a well-balanced diet and the negative impact of excessive sugar consumption on oral health.
Prof. Alp Kantarci emphasizes that sugar was introduced to the human diet after the agrarian revolution and is not necessary to add into our diets. He also highlights that food good for systemic health is also good for oral health.
Prof. Alp Kantarci explains that the diet we eat does not directly change the oral microbiome, except for carbohydrates, rich foods like sugar. However, he mentions the possibility of using delivery systems like lozenges and mouthwashes to expose the oral cavity to helpful nutrients for longer.
Prof. Alp Kantarci advises against consuming acidic drinks like soda, as they can change the equilibrium between bacteria and the surface of the mouth. He also discusses the impact of acidic food and sugar on tooth enamel, and the personalized nature of the effects of carbonated beverages on tooth surfaces.
Prof. Alp Kantarci emphasizes the importance of preventive dental care to maintain systemic health and prevent diseases. Regular dental check-ups can help detect and prevent problems early on, saving costs and complications later.
Jonathan Wolff highlights the unique preventive model of dentistry compared to traditional medicine, where early detection and prevention are prioritized. He draws parallels between the visibility of oral health and the potential for new technology to measure and spot health issues early.
The discussion covers the significance of oral health beyond just clean teeth, including the impact on the entire mouth and the oral microbiome. It also touches on the link between oral health and conditions like Alzheimer's, dementia, and diabetes. Practical advice includes seeking dental help at the first sign of trouble, maintaining proper oral hygiene, and being mindful of sugar intake and acidity in food.
Jonathan Wolff and Prof. Alp Kantarci discuss the impact of lifestyle on health, emphasizing the potential to reduce risks through lifestyle choices.
They highlight the significance of dental care for long-term health and recommend Zoe's personalized nutrition program.
Jonathan Wolff expresses gratitude to Prof. Alp Kantarci and invites him for future discussions.