Integrative Health
Oral health is often overlooked in discussions about heart health, brain health, and gut health. Many people brush their teeth out of habit without understanding the link between oral hygiene and longevity.
“Oral health is a window into your overall health, and taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for long-term well-being,” said Jaskaren Randhawa, DMD, MPH, founder of SAMA. “Poor oral hygiene is associated with a higher risk of systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even certain cancers.”
Using the right toothbrush can make a difference. A reviewer spent six months testing the SURI Electric Toothbrush, a sustainable toothbrush that has received 10,000 reviews and a 4.9 overall rating.
Oral hygiene plays a key role in health and longevity. Studies show that inflammation in the gums can trigger or worsen systemic issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. “The mouth is the leading source of inflammation in the body,” Randhawa said. “Chronic oral issues can contribute to widespread inflammation, which accelerates aging and impacts longevity.” Randhawa added that the oral microbiome is a key player in gut health, digestion, and mental well-being. “Tooth loss has been shown to be a predictor of reduced longevity,” she noted.
Toothbrushes are a major source of waste. Every year, over four billion toothbrushes end up in landfills or oceans. SURI is a B Corp brand focused on reimagining oral care through sustainability. The SURI Electric Toothbrush heads are made from plant-based cornstarch, with bristles made from castor oil. The body of the brush is made from recyclable aluminum. The brush uses sonic vibrations to break up plaque without aggressive scrubbing. It can also be purchased with a UV cleaning travel case that kills 99.9% of bacteria between uses.
To use the SURI, the user presses a single button to cycle between two modes: a standard clean and a gentle setting for sensitive gums. The user moves the brush along teeth and gums without applying pressure. “Avoid pressing too hard and simply guide it along your teeth and gums,” Randhawa said. “Make sure to brush for the full two minutes, adhering to the recommended timing for each quadrant of your mouth.” The brush has a built-in two-minute timer that pauses every 30 seconds to prompt the user to switch quadrants. Randhawa emphasized that the brush head should be replaced every three to four months for optimal performance.
The bristles are soft and gentle against the teeth. The brush is lightweight, quiet, and comfortable to hold. The vibration is not aggressive. The battery lasts about 40 days with daily use. The long battery life, lightweight design, and sturdy case make it good for travel. The UV disinfectant light is a bonus. The brush costs less than $150. The reviewer noted that her mouth felt cleaner after using the SURI. The brush guides the user through the brushing process to ensure the right amount of time is spent on each section.
The brush heads show wear before the three-month mark. The UV case requires separate charging. Some reviewers wished for an app, but the reviewer preferred the simple design. “Small daily habits can have a major impact on your oral health and on your overall health and well-being,” the reviewer stated. “The SURI Electric Toothbrush makes sticking with these habits easy.”
