Mouthwash: Stop Using It!

Dr. B discusses the connection between mouthwash use and high blood pressure, emphasizing the importance of oral health in overall well-being. He mentions studies from the late 2010s that suggest mouthwash ingredients, such as detergents and essential oils, may disrupt the oral microbiome and lead to health issues. He advises against using mouthwash, advocating for natural alternatives like water or saltwater rinsing, and tongue scraping as a superior method for maintaining oral hygiene. Dr. B also touches on the use of chlorhexidine, a chemical with potential cytotoxic effects, and its questionable benefits when compared to mechanical cleaning methods.

This paragraph delves into the role of the oral microbiome in health, particularly focusing on the production of nitric oxide, a vital signaling molecule for blood pressure regulation and overall health. Dr. B explains how mouthwash can negatively impact the oral microbiome, leading to a decrease in nitric oxide and potentially causing high blood pressure. He highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy oral environment to support the production of nitric oxide and suggests that the use of mouthwash can disrupt this balance, contributing to various health issues.

Dr. B stresses the importance of using natural alternatives to mouthwash for better health outcomes. He recommends tongue scraping and nose breathing as effective ways to support the oral microbiome and enhance nitric oxide production. Additionally, he mentions the potential benefits of certain lozenges and dietary choices, such as beets and arugula, which can contribute to a healthier oral and overall microbiome. The paragraph also discusses the negative impact of mouthwash on the production of nitric oxide and its implications for erectile dysfunction and gum disease.

The focus of this paragraph is on the benefits of tongue scraping for maintaining a healthy oral microbiome. Dr. B explains how tongue scraping can help restore the balance of the oral microbiome, which is essential for the production of nitric oxide and the prevention of bad breath. He also discusses the importance of avoiding mouthwash, which can kill beneficial bacteria and disrupt the natural processes in the mouth. The paragraph suggests that by scraping the tongue, individuals can improve their oral and systemic health, including potentially reducing high blood pressure.

In this paragraph, Dr. B discusses the impact of diet on nitric oxide production, emphasizing the importance of consuming foods that support the oral microbiome. He mentions that eating well and exercising efficiently are not enough if the oral microbiome is disrupted by mouthwash or poor tongue hygiene. Dr. B suggests that certain foods, like beets and arugula, can help increase nitric oxide levels, which can have positive effects on mood, strength, and exercise performance. He also warns against the use of toothpastes with emulsifiers and surfactants, which can harm the oral microbiome.

Dr. B argues against the reliance on chemical mouthwashes and toothpastes, advocating for mechanical methods of oral hygiene such as brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping. He explains that these mechanical methods are more effective at disrupting and removing biofilm than any liquid solution. The paragraph also addresses the potential harm caused by high concentrations of essential oils found in some natural toothpastes and the lack of regulation in the oral care product industry.

This paragraph highlights the significance of testing the oral microbiome to identify and address potential issues early on. Dr. B recommends the bristle test as a means to assess bacterial counts in the mouth and determine the health of the oral microbiome. He emphasizes that even those with seemingly good oral health can benefit from such testing to prevent future problems like gum disease or bad breath. Dr. B also encourages finding a dentist who is knowledgeable about the oral microbiome and can provide guidance on maintaining oral health.

Dr. B concludes by reiterating the link between oral health and systemic health, specifically high blood pressure. He advises against the use of mouthwash and encourages the practice of tongue scraping and other natural oral hygiene methods. The paragraph also touches on the importance of having a dentist who understands the oral microbiome's role in overall health and can provide appropriate care. Dr. B expresses his excitement about discussing these topics with Max Lugavir on the Genius Life podcast and invites listeners to explore these subjects further.