Once you start on this 5-step plan, you’ll be amazed to see the changes start taking place in your own mouth! Your teeth may get whiter, your gum puffiness may go away, and your dentist (that’s me!) may even tell you you’re cavity and plaque-free! If you constantly have a white coating, then consider oral chewable probiotics to control yeast imbalance. Research on oral probiotics2 has increased exponentially. A number of well-controlled studies3 indicate that a probiotic formula containing Lactobacilli is the most beneficial to suppress candida growth. Taken as directed, these strains should populate your mouth within just a few days so the good guys can get to work keeping out harmful bugs. Taking them just before going to sleep allows the probiotics to work all night on your behalf, without interference from food or drink—try Replenish the Good which contains strains of good oral bacteria. I also recommend rinsing with a little diluted 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide. Dilute it about 50% with water. It’s inexpensive and very effective. I like to have patients stay away from alcohol based rinses because they are really harsh with chemicals which can be irritating to the gums and dehydrating for teeth—in some patients it can cause hypersensitivity. Lastly, some supplements for periodontal support: Chronic mineral deficiency is common today because commercial agricultural practices have stripped minerals from the soil. I suggest taking a quality mineral supplement, such as Trace Minerals. Keep on reading: Solis has been practicing the science and art of dentistry since 2007. She moved into a holistic, mercury-free approach to dentistry in 2013. Understanding how the teeth directly influence other body structures is an integral part to the way she provides comprehensive care to her patients. The mouth is the entrance to the body. Anything we put into the mouth should be compatible with healing the body. Solis’ focus at LA Holistic Dentistry is to engage the patient in getting rooted in the health, starting with dental health. It’s all about Good Teeth. Good Health. Good Spirits.