Matt and Jonathan An, an Assistant Professor of Oral Health Sciences at the University of Washington School of Dentistry, explore the relationship between oral health and ageing, including research on how rapamycin affects oral health.

Key Points:

The podcast highlights the crucial link between oral health and overall well-being, offering practical tips and emphasizing the importance of regular dental visits and awareness of the impact of medications and systemic health on oral conditions. It advocates for proactive care and the use of modern dental technologies.

• Oral Health and Overall Well-being: The podcast discusses the often overlooked connection between oral health and overall body health. It highlights how oral health can influence systemic conditions and emphasizes the importance of recognizing this relationship.
• Challenges in Oral Health Awareness: There is a noticeable gap in awareness regarding the impact of medications and systemic health issues on oral health. Patients and some healthcare providers may lack understanding about how certain medications can affect oral conditions.
• Basic Oral Health Tips: The podcast provides practical advice for maintaining oral health, including regular brushing and flossing. It mentions the importance of brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly, and the benefits of using tools like electric toothbrushes or water picks.
• Dental Visits and Technology: Routine dental visits are crucial not just for cavity checks but for monitoring potential oral health issues such as oral cancer or bite alignment. Modern technology, such as 3D scanning, can help in providing a comprehensive view of a patient’s oral health.
• Addressing Common Oral Health Concerns: The discussion covers common issues like tooth sensitivity, grinding, and the use of mouthguards. It emphasizes the need to address underlying causes rather than just treating symptoms, advocating for a more proactive approach to oral health.