PATIENT EDUCATION: DENTAL HEALTH

Your dental health is more than just a bright smile—it plays a crucial role in overall wellness, airway function, and orofacial muscle balance. Poor oral hygiene and improper oral posture can contribute to cavities, gum disease, breathing issues, and even facial structural changes.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation, or persistent bad breath, it’s time to take action. This guide will help you understand how dental health and Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) are connected, how to evaluate your oral hygiene, and what habits can improve both.

A healthy mouth supports proper chewing, breathing, and swallowing. When oral hygiene or muscle function is compromised, it may contribute to:

• Cavities and tooth decay, which affect bite and alignment 
• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), which can damage oral and systemic health 
• Mouth breathing, which alters facial development and dries out oral tissues 
• Dysfunctional tongue posture, affecting swallowing and speech 
• TMJ (jaw joint) pain and muscle tension, impacting posture and jaw movement
   

Oral health and orofacial function are deeply connected—making both daily dental care and myofunctional exercises essential for overall well-being.

✅ I brush my teeth twice a day using proper technique
🚩 I sometimes forget to brush my teeth or rush through it
🚩 I rarely floss or don’t floss at all
🚩 I don’t use fluoride or remineralizing alternatives like nano-hydroxyapatite

✅ My gums are pink and firm
🚩 My gums bleed when brushing or flossing
🚩 I have tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
🚩 I have visible plaque buildup or discolored teeth

✅ I breathe through my nose with lips closed
🚩 I breathe through my mouth often, especially at night
🚩 My tongue rests low in my mouth instead of on the palate
🚩 I experience jaw tension, clenching, or clicking
 

If you marked several red flags, it's time to improve your dental hygiene, oral function, and breathing habits.
 

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste 
• Hold the brush at a 45° angle toward the gumline 
• Use gentle circular motions—clean 1–2 teeth at a time 
• Brush all surfaces (outer, inner, chewing) for at least 2 minutes 
• Don’t forget to brush your tongue and roof of your mouth 

✅ Helps remove plaque, protect enamel, and reduce gum inflammation.

• Wrap the floss around each tooth in a C-shape 
• Slide it gently below the gumline and move it up and down 
• Use a clean section for each tooth
   

✅ Helps clean where brushes can’t reach, preventing gum disease and cavities.

• Fluoride: Strengthens enamel and reduces early decay 
• Nano-Hydroxyapatite (nHA): Repairs microscopic damage and reduces sensitivity 
• Recaldent (CPP-ACP): Delivers calcium/phosphate to enamel and reduces decay
   

✅ These agents support enamel health, reduce sensitivity, and prevent cavities.

• Keep your tongue resting on the palate 
• Maintain closed lips and nasal breathing 
• Practice exercises to support airway function
   

✅ Improves facial development, swallowing, and breathing efficiency.

• Drink water regularly throughout the day 
• Chew xylitol gum to stimulate saliva 
• Xylitol: Prevents bacteria from sticking to teeth and stimulates saliva 
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and smoking
   

✅ Keeps your mouth moist and neutralizes harmful acids.

• Eat firm, whole foods (e.g., apples, carrots, nuts) 
• Practice jaw relaxation and gentle stretching 
• Perform lip seal and tongue exercises
   

✅ Supports TMJ health, facial tone, and balanced oral posture.

• Use fluoride or remineralizing toothpaste 
• Limit sugar and acidic foods/drinks 
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months 
• See your dentist every 6 months
   

• Dentist – For exams, cleanings, and cavity or gum disease treatment 
• Periodontist – For advanced gum health concerns 
• Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist – For oral posture, swallowing, and breathing patterns 
• ENT Specialist – For nasal obstructions, allergies, or enlarged tonsils
   

A healthy mouth and well-balanced orofacial function are essential to breathing, chewing, swallowing, and overall health. By adopting daily dental care habits and supporting oral posture and muscle function through OMT, you can protect your teeth, enhance your airway, and support lifelong wellness.

Disclaimer:
The content on MyoPhysX.com is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding medical concerns.

Huberman, A. [Huberman Lab]. (2025, March 24). How to improve your teeth & oral microbiome for brain & body health | Dr. Staci Whitman [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/_oOEKKiwdDE