Mind, Mouth and Wellbeing: How Oral Health and Hypnotherapy Go Together

Hypnotherapy is deeply rooted in holistic wellbeing and very often, I’ll work with a client’s dentist or doctor to offer complimentary support alongside their conventional treatment. For example, if a client knows they need to stop-smoking to minimise the impact of an underlying health condition, they might seek help in quitting. If snoring is making life unbearable, I would initially refer a client to their dentist, while I work with their partner to help them learn to fall asleep in the meantime.

Education in the underlying issues is a key part of the process of ensuring a successful treatment plan. So I was delighted to ask an industry expert some questions about the holistic role of mouth health on overall wellbeing. Dr. Ilay Maden, the co-founder of Postcura, is a former Harley Street dentist who has gone on to train hundreds of dentists in the latest technological advancements in dentistry and has a special interest in the impact of mouth health on our overall wellbeing.

Liza: Why is keeping our mouth healthy so important to our overall holistic wellbeing?

Dr Ilay Maden: Your body and mind are deeply connected, and oral health plays a bigger role in overall wellness than you might realise. Poor hygiene can lead to infections, inflammation, and even impact conditions like diabetes. Stress from dental issues can create a cycle, leading to habits like grinding or avoiding care. Regular check-ups and proper hygiene aren’t just about preventing cavities, they help maintain your overall health and quality of life.

Liza: We know that smoking causes gum disease and increases the chance of tooth loss. What should tobacco users be aware of when putting a cigarette in their mouth? And what natural steps can they take to reverse the impact of a smoking habit on their oral and dental health?

Dr Ilay Maden: In addition to the elephant in the room – cancer – every cigarette has a direct impact on oral health. Smoking weakens gum health, increases the risk of infection and tooth loss, and slows healing after dental procedures, making oral health complications more likely. And beyond the physical effects, smoking is a deeply ingrained habit tied to stress and emotions. Many smokers light up unconsciously as a coping mechanism. Breaking the habit can significantly improve oral health.

Quitting is the first step, followed by hydration, a nutrient-rich diet, and good oral hygiene to help reverse the damage. Regular dental cleanings also play a key role in restoring gum health and preventing further complications.

Liza: One of my most successful services is helping people get a good night’s sleep when they live with a snorer. Snorers might be surprised to discover that their first port of call for help might be to consult their dentist. Why is that?

Dr. Ilay Maden: Snoring is often linked to oral and jaw issues, and dentists can help by providing custom-made oral appliances that reposition the jaw to keep the airway open. Snoring doesn’t just affect the snorer – it can lead to stress and exhaustion for their partner too. While dentists address physical causes with oral appliances, hypnotherapy helps train the mind for deeper, more restful sleep. A combined approach can make all the difference.

Liza: How are you seeing people’s diet and lifestyles impact their teeth and mouth-health? And what positive changes would you suggest?

Dr. Ilay Maden: Diet, hydration and stress all play a major role in oral health. High-sugar and acidic foods contribute to cavities, while stress can lead to griding an gum issues. Staying hydrated and reducing mouth breathing are key steps to protecting your smile.

Cutting down on sugar, eating crunchy vegetables to naturally clean the teeth and getting enough vitamins (especially calcium and vitamin D), whole foods (especially leafy greens and nuts), using coconut oil instead of processed oils, all support both dental and overall health.

Liza: For people who are afraid of going to the dentist and feel their phobia puts them off booking a visit, what do you suggest to make their experience less scary and more comfortable?

Dr. Ilay Maden: Dental fear is common and often leads to delaying care, making treatments more complex. Open communication with your dentist, calming techniques like music and hypnotherapy can help shift fear into a more comfortable experience.

You’re not alone. Try these tips to ease anxiety:

• Breathe and relax – Deep breaths help calm your nervous system.

• Tell your dentist – They can adjust treatment to make you more comfortable.

• Hypnotherapy – Rewire your fear into confidence before your visit.

You don’t have to suffer – there are many ways to make a dental visit stress free. Find out more about hypnotherapy and how it can support your overall holistic wellbeing and mental health. If you'd like support with smoking cessation, learn how hypnotherapy can help you stop-smoking. Further information about Postcura: At Postcura, we redefine dental tourism by combining expert care with advanced technology. From in-depth consultations in the UK to personalised treatments in Turkey, we ensure a seamless experience. With a strong focus on guidance, transparent communication, and comprehensive insurance coverage, we provide peace of mind at every step. Our mission is to make high-quality dental care accessible, efficient, and stress-free, helping patients feel healthier and happier. To learn more, visit the Procura website.