Today on Live Well Be Well, I’m diving into a topic that’s often overlooked but incredibly important—your oral microbiome. I’m joined by Dr. Katie Lee, who’s been exploring this field long before it started getting the attention it deserves.

We've all heard about the gut microbiome, but did you know your mouth houses billions of bacteria that significantly impact your overall health? From heart disease and dementia to fertility struggles - the connection between your oral health and these conditions is astonishing! Dr. Lee explains how bleeding gums are actually a warning sign of "leaky gums" allowing bacteria to enter your bloodstream and potentially cause harm throughout your body.

We discuss practical tips for maintaining a healthy oral microbiome, from proper brushing and flossing techniques to choosing the right products. Dr. Lee shares eye-opening insights about how snacking habits, breathing methods, and even certain toothpastes can disrupt your oral microbiome.

About Dr. Katie Lee:

Dr. Katie Lee is a renowned dentist and author of Save by the Mouth, where she explores the crucial connections between oral health and systemic wellness. With extensive clinical experience and a passion for preventative care, Dr. Lee operates a telehealth service helping patients optimize their oral microbiome through testing and personalized treatment plans.

Connect with Dr. Katie Lee:

Love, Sarah Ann 💛

***

Thank you to my wonderful sponsors! 

VivoBarefoot | 'If you can’t be barefoot, be Vivobarefoot’

For 20% off, use code LWBW20

www.vivobarefoot.com

OneSkin | Topical Products for Healthy Aging

http://oneskin.co/LWBW

Use code LWBW for 15% off your first order 

***

If you enjoyed this episode you might also like:

The Gut-Mind Doctor: The Mind & Food Strategies That Can Heal Your Gut Microbiome | Dr. Emeran Mayer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yL5ZtoJAUBs

How to FIX Leaky Gut, Improve Health and Stop Cravings | Dr. James Kinross

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvupSI_S7_Q

The Surprising Truth on How Snacking Impacts Gut Health & Blood Sugar Spikes | Dr Sarah Berry

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VgJaI5-yCM

***

Sign up to Sarah’s Compassionate Cure newsletter: 

Science Simplified, Health Humanised. Join thousands in exploring actionable insights that prioritise compassion, clarity, and real-life impact. https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/

***

Highlights:

Introduction (00:00)

Are Teeth Actually Organs? Here’s Why It Matters (00:44)

From Hippocrates to Today: The Medical Roots of Oral Health (02:06)

What Is the Oral Microbiome and Why Is It Critical? (06:05)

The Surprising Daily Habits That Damage Your Oral Microbiome (07:48)

Xylitol, Gum, and Smart Hacks for a Healthier Mouth (13:16)

How Oral Bacteria Affect Fertility in Men and Women (17:50)

Should You Test Your Oral Microbiome? What It Can Reveal (26:46)

Oral Health and the Brain: Links to Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Decline (29:25)

The Oral Microbiome-Heart Disease Connection You Need to Know (37:06)

Can Oral Health Influence Cancer Risk? Here’s What We Know (42:33)

Early Signs of Diabetes That Show Up in Your Mouth (45:01)

Mouth Breathing vs. Nasal Breathing: The Hidden Impact on Health (50:47)

The Ultimate Oral Hygiene Routine for a Balanced Microbiome (55:42)

Fluoride, Toothpaste, and the Truth About Dental Products (01:05:41)

How Diet Impacts the Oral Microbiome and Inflammation (01:12:57)

Final Takeaways: Rewriting the Rules of Oral Health (01:15:25)

***

Let’s be friends!

📷 Instagram:  / sarahannmacklin

📹 Subscribe:   / @livewellbewellsarah  

🐦 Twitter:  / sarahannmacklin  

📱 TikTok:  / sarahannnutrition  

💌 Newsletter: https://sarahmacklin.substack.com/