The SHIFT Method: Transforming Family Health with Simple Daily Habits

This week on the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, we got real about something most people overlook: your child’s health doesn’t start in the gut—it starts in the mouth. And as a dental hygienist, mom, and someone who’s been through the ringer with personal health battles and my daughter’s challenges, I created the SHIFT Method to make sure no one else has to walk that path blind.

Key Takeaways:

-Why oral health is foundational – Your mouth is ground zero for everything: bacteria, inflammation, sleep quality, and yes—even your child’s behavioral issues.

-What I wish I knew sooner – From breastfeeding to thumb sucking, and pacifiers to my daughter’s night terrors and bedwetting, I connected the dots between early mouth development and long-term health. Spoiler: perfectly straight baby teeth? Not always a good sign.

-The power of nasal breathing – Mouth breathing in kids is more than a habit—it can lead to poor sleep, misaligned jaws, and even ADHD-like symptoms. We’re not just talking toothbrushes here; we’re talking total body wellness.

The SHIFT framework:

S – Simple / Starts in the mouth

H – Hydration, Habits, and Harmonizing the body

I – Inhale Intentionally (how we breathe matters!)

F – Flossing (and busting myths around it)

T – Transformation through tongue training and awareness

I also introduced The Healthy Habit Experience, a bite-sized $47 training, and our growing SHIFT Circle community—where like-minded parents can connect, learn, and create habits that last generations.

If you’re a parent (or plan to be), it’s never too early to take charge of your family’s health—one small SHIFT at a time.

Book a consultation today:

I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.

https://shereewertz.com/15-min