The self-care market is booming. From supplements and wearables to gym memberships and trending sports like paddle or pickleball, there is a real interest in keeping fit. The benefits extend to both mental and physical health and the healthier we are, the longer we live.
But what if a major factor for longevity was being overlooked – what if oral care was the biggest untapped opportunity to optimise our health?
It is recommended that we brush our teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. This is the minimum for keeping the teeth and gums clean, as interdental cleaning (whether using brushes, dental floss, a water flosser or an electric flosser) and mouthwashes are also important achieve a 100% clean smile each day. The missing link for proactive people in the search for longevity is why protecting the teeth improves overall health.
The rationale is simple: the more teeth that are lost, the greater the decline in oral function. Whether that’s eating or speaking, the impact on quality of life is big. On a dietary level, tooth loss limits the foods people can eat, potentially depriving them of useful nutrients and compromising their immune system. A long, happy and healthy life is therefore less likely.
In Japan, government initiatives focus on oral frailty to support their ageing population. The most well-known is the 8020 campaign which was launched in 1989 to encourage Japanese citizens to retain at least 20 natural teeth by the time they reach the age of 80. In 2016, over 50% of the population had achieved this goal.
There is much to be learned from the approach of the Japanese government. Recent data indicates that 59% of Canadian consumers and 57% of Brazilian consumers are planning to focus on oral health for its long-term advantages. Longevity is often associated with looks and physical appearance, but it is important that, when it comes to the teeth and gums, function is the priority. Afterall, what use is a bright smile if it cannot chew the foods needed for a healthy diet?
As well as avoiding the risk of malnutrition, a healthy smile that is consistently maintained can protect the rest of the body. The mouth serves as a critical indicator of overall health and is linked to chronic disorders like diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disorders and chronic respiratory diseases. By paying closer attention to daily oral care habits, the risk of developing a systemic health issue can be reduced.
The transformation of the oral care market by the philosophy of longevity is an exciting opportunity to enhance the UK’s oral hygiene standard. Innovations have already made a splash, such as electric toothbrushes with smart brush options and connections to apps that detail the success of each clean. With greater awareness and diligent care, a shift in oral health knowledge can support the quest for longevity.
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