Natural mouth disinfection

Every day we carry with our hands and with the objects we use a multitude of microbes in our mouths. For this reason, we must always take care of the personal hygiene of our hands, washing them regularly during the day with soap and water or with the special antiseptic liquids. Daily disinfection of the oral cavity is necessary to prevent the occurrence of inflammation. The simplest means is daily brushing of the teeth in the morning and in the evening, for at least 3 minutes. Brushing removes food debris, cleans dental plaque and strengthens teeth with the calcium and fluoride it contains. Flossing after meals and rinsing with mouthwash complement the cleansing and disinfecting action of brushing. It is very important to visit the dentist regularly (every six months), in order to carry out the necessary cleaning of the teeth and to prevent inflammation of the oral cavity.

Shielding our immune system plays an important role in good oral health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, with a reduction in daily stress and a balanced diet, adequate intake of foods rich in iron, vitamins of the B complex and vitamin C, prevent the occurrence of oral infections. The diet must be poor in carbohydrates such as glucose, sucrose, and fructose, as these are the raw material used by microbes. A simple dietary habit, chewing a piece of gum after eating, also helps, as it increases saliva production. Diseases that reduce its production (dry mouth due to Sjogren’s syndrome, salivary stones) must be recognized early and treated effectively.

In elderly people who use dentures, it is important to clean the dentures daily and after each meal and remove them when not in use. To prevent mycosis in patients using respiratory sprays, it is necessary to rinse the mouth with water after using the medicine.

Angelos P. Karatzaferis, Specialist Pathologist/ Scientific Associate for the GET WELL Natural Corner service
Excellent Graduate of the School of Medicine of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Specialty in Internal Pathology at the Pathological Physiology Clinic of the University of Athens