Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Welcome back to Ask the Dentist! Join us for insightful discussions debunking online myths and the importance of asking questions at the dentist. Learn about engaging with your dental hygienist during cleanings and explore the controversial topic of fluoride use. Discover our groundbreaking fluoride-free dental varnish, a game-changer in at-home dental care. We dissect its formulation, discuss dental billing code advancements, and highlight the scientific advantages of our varnish and oral microbiome-friendly toothpaste. Look into the future of toothpaste, where our remineralizing varnish could replace it for specific oral health needs. Key Points From This Episode: 00:26 - Democratize Dental Care 04:56 - The Impact of Dental Varnish and Fluoride 06:40 - Fluoride is Toxic 07:53 - A Revolutionary At-Home Varnish 19:40 - Who Should Use the Varnish 24:53 - Fluoride Lawsuit Against EPA 26:36 - The Future of Toothpaste and Varnish Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Have you ever considered what's lurking inside your toothpaste tube? This week, we peel back the label on oral care products to uncover the truth about sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and its role as a surfactant in your daily brushing routine. It's more than just froth and bubbles; we're talking about the balance of your oral microbiome and the potential for SLS to disrupt it. From the historic use of these chemicals in our toothpaste to their classification as minimum risk pesticides, we question the necessity of such harsh ingredients in light of emerging research highlighting the importance of a healthy mouth flora.  00:04 - The Impact of Surfactants in Toothpaste 04:10 - Toothpaste and the Oral Microbiome 10:09 - Surfactant-Free Toothpaste Importance 19:31 - Toothpaste Without Emulsifiers and Surfactants 20:55 - The Importance of Toothpaste Ingredients 25:07 - Tips for Maximizing Toothpaste Usage 28:36 - Oral Health Tips and Recommendations Sponsored By: BiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthrough www.magbreakthrough.com/askthedentist Code ASKTHEDENTIST gets you 10% off any order Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Join us as we wrap up an incredible year in oral health on Ask the Dentist. Reflecting on the leaps we've made, we explore groundbreaking products that have reshaped our approach to dental care. We're also buzzing with excitement over the impact of our growing podcast community and the launch of Fygg, the brainchild of myself, Dr. Staci, and my daughter, promising a fresh take on oral care. Sponsored By: BiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthrough www.magbreakthrough.com/askthedentist Code ASKTHEDENTIST gets you 10% off any order Show Links: Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Bristle test - code DRB gets you a discount Bristle probiotic - code DRB gets you a discount Xlear  Mouth tape  Xylitol gum Slate flosser - Code ASKTHEDENTIST gets you a discount Fygg Toothpaste + Varnish  Tongue scraper  Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!My walk down memory lane uncovers the love-hate relationship we've all had with fluoride varnish treatments, the cornerstone of dental decay prevention.  Yet, it's the very same sensory shock and potential risks that have us in pursuit of something gentler, something that doesn't wage war on our mouths. Stick with me as I reveal a game-changing, fluoride-free varnish that's not just winning smiles but also changing the landscape of pediatric dentistry.Key Points From This Episode:00:05 - Evolution of Fluoride Varnish and Alternatives09:51 - The Strength of Fluoride Varnish 13:16 - Varnish Chemical Composition Concerns 19:45 - Effect of Varnishes on Oral Microbiome26:28 - Childhood Dental Trauma Affects Dental Care 31:09 - My New Line of Dental Products!Sponsored By:BiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthroughwww.magbreakthrough.com/askthedentistCode ASKTHEDENTIST gets you 10% off any orderShow Links:Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!Silver Diamine Fluoride: A Guide to Its Uses, Risks, And BenefitsCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Get ready to redefine your lifestyle as we unravel the complex world of toxicology with our special guest, Dr. Yvonne Burkart. Prepare to be enlightened on the intricate correlation between environmental toxins, reproductive health, and cancer. You'll also gain firsthand insights into Dr. Burkart's transformational journey to improved health through adopting a low-tox lifestyle. Let's equip ourselves with practical ways of controlling our exposure to toxins at home and at work, because surprisingly, we do have control over the toxins we come into contact with daily.We then venture into the sphere of oral health and the often overlooked role of glutathione. With Dr. Burkart's guidance, we'll shed light on the association between glutathione levels and dental decay, especially in children. But beware, there are potential pitfalls when it comes to over-supplementing. Our conversation will also cover common causes of oral health issues, from an imbalance of microbes to mouth breathing, and the underdevelopment of the oral microbiome in children. It's not all doom and gloom though, we'll share tips on managing oral health through diet and lifestyle modifications.Key points from this episode:0:00:05 - Toxicology, Environmental Chemicals, and Health0:03:24 - Avoiding Environmental Toxins0:12:46 - Glutathione in Oral Health and Disease0:21:56 - Natural Ways to Increase Glutathione Levels0:24:33 - Diet's Impact on Oral Health0:28:09 - Gum Disease and Use of Surfactants0:29:40 - Harsh Effects of Synthetic Detergents0:39:11 - Tips for Choosing Safe ProductsSponsored By:BiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthroughwww.magbreakthrough.com/askthedentistCode ASKTHEDENTIST gets you 10% off any orderCheck Out Yvonne:InstagramApproved ProductsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This is Part 3 of my 4 Part series on hydroxyapatite.  In this series Dr. Staci joins me to answer all of your questions on this incredible yet complicated topic.  In the four part series we will start off with what is it, how does it work + how does it compare to fluoride, its safety and efficacy and finally, what version is best + what toothpaste should we be using?Key points from this episode:00:39 - Debunking Controversies05:47 -  Hydroxyapatite's Long History and Uses 14:13 - Regulations and Concerns Over Nano Products 20:38 -  Hydroxyapatite Solubility and Carbonate's Impact 32:22 - Nano Technology Research in Portugal  37:17 - Upcoming Announcement and Toothpaste Recommendations Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistBiOptimizers + Mag BreakthroughBIOptimizers' Black Friday Mega Sale is happening right now and lasting throughout the entire month of November! The biggest discount you can get and amazing gifts with purchase are available only on my page bioptimizers.com/askthedentist with code ASKTHEDENTISTCheck Out Dr. StaciOnlineInstagramCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This is Part 2 of my 4 Part series on hydroxyapatite.  In this series Dr. Staci joins me to answer all of your questions on this incredible yet complicated topic.  In the four part series we will start off with what is it, how does it work + how does it compare to fluoride, its safety and efficacy and finally, what version is best + what toothpaste should we be using?Key points from this episode:00:00 - Exploring Hydroxyapatite and Oral Health04:08 - The Mechanism of Fluoride Replacement07:28 - Acidic Environment and Tooth Dissolution12:15 - Saliva Integrity in Dentistry27:16 - Understanding Nano Hydroxyapatite Therapeutic Dose39:42 - Dental Health Information and ResourcesSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistBiOptimizers + Mag BreakthroughBIOptimizers' Black Friday Mega Sale is happening right now and lasting throughout the entire month of November! The biggest discount you can get and amazing gifts with purchase are available only on my page bioptimizers.com/askthedentist with code ASKTHEDENTISTCheck Out Dr. StaciOnlineInstagramCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This is Part 1 of my 4 Part series on hydroxyapatite.  In this series Dr. Staci joins me to answer all of your questions on this incredible yet complicated topic.  In the four part series we will start off with what is it, how does it work + how does it compare to fluoride, its safety and efficacy and finally, what version is best + what toothpaste should we be using?Key Points From This Episode:0:06:20 - Benefits of Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste 0:10:20 - Unpacking and Discussing Hydroxyapatite Research 0:18:07 - Nano vs Micro Hydroxyapatite0:25:30 - The Importance of Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Check Out Dr. StaciOnlineInstagramSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistBiOptimizers + Mag BreakthroughBIOptimizers' Black Friday Mega Sale is happening right now and lasting throughout the entire month of November! The biggest discount you can get and amazing gifts with purchase are available only on my page bioptimizers.com/askthedentist with code ASKTHEDENTISTProducts Mentioned:RiseWell Toothpaste - use code ASKTHEDENTIST for a discountFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletterCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

On this episode, I break down a study about yeast infections in the mouth.  We expose how Candida thrush, a common oral yeast infection, can impact not just your oral health but also potentially trigger Alzheimer's disease   Get equipped with knowledge about the symptoms, preventive measures, and treatments to stay a step ahead of this infection.Key Points From This Episode:0:01:00 - What is Candida thrush?0:07:02 - Fungal Infections and Alzheimer's Disease0:14:07 - Causes of Yeast Infections and Prevention0:17:39 - Connecting Oral Health to Neurodegenerative Disease0:25:18 - Testing and Nutrients for Oral MicrobiomeSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistBiOptimizers: Magnesium Breakthroughwww.magbreakthrough.com/askthedentistCode ASKTHEDENTIST gets you 10% off any orderProducts Mentioned:ProbioticTestingTongue Scraper Option 1Tongue Scraper Option 2Links Mentioned:https://www.cell.com/cell-reports/pdf/S2211-1247(23)01252-4.pdfFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Listen in as we explore the underestimated benefits of gum chewing for oral health, specifically focusing on the key ingredient, xylitol.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:05 - Is Chewing Gum Good For Oral Health?0:10:56 - Xylitol Gum + Dental Cavity Prevention0:13:54 - Xylitol Gum and Tooth Surfaces Effects 0:17:36 - Importance of Frequency in Xylitol Gum 0:23:02 - The Benefits of Xylitol0:28:28 - The Benefits of Chewing Xylitol Gum Products Mentioned:Simply GumStudies Mentioned:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10096456/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8281565/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7486925/How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Have you ever considered the hidden power of your tongue in maintaining oral health? Are you familiar with the practice of tongue scraping? Join me, Dr B, as we unearth the secrets behind this little-known oral hygiene practice.  I explain why a tongue scraper is the best tool for the job. We'll take a look at the different types of tongue scrapers available out there and the ideal way to utilize them for maximum results.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:05 - Why Tongue Scraping is Crucial0:09:43 - When to Scrape Your Tongue 0:20:43 - Comparison of Serrated Tongue Scraper Surfaces 0:29:09 - The Importance of Tongue Scraping 0:34:11 - Slate Flosser & Fluoride Lawsuit Update Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistProducts Mentioned:Tongue Scraper Option 1Tongue Scraper Option 2Slate Electric FlosserHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Did you know that your oral health can be a gateway to your overall systemic health? Join me, Dr. B, as I pull back the veil on the historical divide that has unfortunately separated oral health from general health.  We're bridging this divide by discussing "the three I's" - inflammation, injury, and infection.  I even introduce a fourth "I" that you will not want to miss!Key Points From This Episode:0:00:05 - The Oral Systemic Connection0:07:34 - Oral Health's Impact on Systemic Health0:11:56 - Alzheimer's and the Oral-Systemic ConnectionSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistProducts Mentioned:Tongue Scraper Option 1Tongue Scraper Option 2Show Links:Functional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

10 Insider Secrets to Dental Care PDF: https://askthedent.ist/insiderWhat would you say if I told you that your mouthwash might be doing more harm than good, potentially elevating your blood pressure? It's a shocking revelation that we delve into on this episode. We unravel the surprising connection between oral health and high blood pressure, shedding light on how everyday items like mouthwash can disrupt nitric oxide production, disturb the balance of your oral microbiome, and negatively affect your overall health. Key Points From This Episode:0:05:09 - Negative Effects of Mouthwash, Importance of Nitric Oxide0:07:00 - Mouthwash's Impact on Oral Microbiome 0:12:41 - Nitric Oxide's Role in Oral Health 0:18:47 - Importance of Hydration for Oral Health 0:20:36 - Improving Oral Microbiome and Bad Breath0:23:50 - Benefits of NO, Oral Microbiome Optimization 0:33:37 - Mouthwash Impact on High Blood Pressure Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistPaleo ValleyFor 15% off go to: https://paleovalley.com/askthedentistProducts Mentioned:NO2U Nitric Oxide LozengeTongue Scraper Option 1Tongue Scraper Option 2Studies Mentioned:OTC mouthwash and it’s connection to HBPTongue Scraping Can Lower Your Blood PressureGut Epithelial Barrier Damage Caused by Dishwasher DetergentsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As we're all aware, the simple act of breathing is an essential part of our lives. Yet, how many of us have taken the time to truly contemplate the power it holds over our health? In our latest episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Chuck McGee, an enthusiastic breathwork coach. He walks us through his intriguing health journey and enlightens us on the transformative potential of conscious breathwork.We begin by discussing how adjusting common routines like the way we sit, stand or even use our mobile devices can affect our health. Chuck provides us with a deeper understanding of various breathing techniques, such as mouth taping and lateral expansion of the lower ribs. You'll be surprised to learn how these simple changes can lower stress levels and drastically improve your wellbeing. We also delve into the benefits of nasal breathing and its role in enhancing sleep, reducing sympathetic tone, and improving oral health. Key Points From This Episode:0:00:00 - The Power of Breath0:16:12 - Wim Hof Method and Breath Training0:21:03 - Optimal Tongue Posture and Breathing Techniques 0:25:24 - Nose Breathing vs. Mouth Taping0:32:25 - The Impact of Breathing Techniques 0:35:19 - Mastering Breathwork and Its Benefits 0:38:48 - Practicing Biomechanics and Breath Modulation0:48:44 - Proper Breathing Techniques With Masks 0:52:59 - Impact of Holding Stomach In 1:13:29 - Box Breathing and Intentional Excitement Show Links:Unblock Your Nose!Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistPaleo ValleyFor 15% off go to: https://paleovalley.com/askthedentistCheck Out Chuck McGee:Online: https://icedvikingbreathworks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icedvikingbreathworks/The link for my free breathworkTopic: Chuck McGee III's Breathwork sessionTime: 11 am PST Sundays + 9PM pst MondaysJoin Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/750599401How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Ever wondered why those unsightly lesions, known as abfractions, appear on the side of your teeth? Well, you're not alone. Today, we're diving into an in-depth discussion on abfractions, their causes, and most importantly, how to prevent and treat them. The culprits could be as commonplace as grinding your teeth or using a worn-out toothbrush. And yes, we're also talking about the impact of our sleep habits on oral health. We discuss how fillings, mouth guards, orthodontics, and even the right toothpaste could help resolve abfractions, and the importance of treating the root cause for lasting results.Key Points From This Episode:0:03:35 - Preventing and Treating Abfractions0:08:07 - Recognizing Symptoms of Tooth Wear 0:16:19 - Mouth Guards and Fillings on Teeth 0:25:54 - Proper Dental Filling TipsSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistPaleo ValleyFor 15% off go to: https://paleovalley.com/askthedentistHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Listen in as we explore the surprising link between chemical toxins and dental health. The conversation focuses on the increasing appearance of white spots on teeth and their potential connection to endocrine disruptors like BPA. We break down the reasons behind the formation of these spots, the health risks they may present, and ways to limit our exposure to these toxins.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:00 - Chemical Toxins and Dental Health0:02:09 - Tooth Development and BPA Exposure 0:10:26 - Reducing Plastic Exposure and Protecting Teeth0:11:24 - Enamel Disease and Environmental Pollutants0:16:26 - Lesion Treatment and Dental Repair OptionsSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistShow Links:Functional Dentist DirectoryFillings Option 1Fillings Option 2StashersRadius Silk FlossSlate Flosser - code ASKTHEDENTIST for a DiscountHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Did you know the design of your toothbrush plays a pivotal role in your dental health? It’s an everyday tool we often overlook, but it's time we bring it to the spotlight! We delve into the intricate world of toothbrush design, scrutinizing the significance of bristle design, stiffness, size, and pattern, as well as the brush head design and size. Discover how an abrasive toothbrush or toothpaste can gradually wear down your teeth, leading to sensitivity. We unravel invaluable tips for choosing the optimal toothbrush for maintaining a healthy mouth and smile.We also shed light on the often overlooked importance of oral hydration and its crucial role in saliva production. Learn about the various tests you can conduct at home to evaluate your toothbrush, such as the thumb or finger test, the opaque test, and the sound test. To top things off, we delve into a comparison of some of the most popular toothbrushes in the market, from budget-friendly picks to extravagant options.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:35 - Mistakes in Choosing Toothbrush Design 0:08:04 - Toothpaste Abrasiveness and Toothbrush Flexibility 0:12:12 - Sonic Toothbrush's Effect on Dentin 0:18:53 - Features of a High-Quality Toothbrush 0:23:32 - Toothbrush Ergonomics and Design Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistShow Links:Toothbrush Recommendations Radius Tour ToothbrushRadius Source ToothbrushFunctional Dentist DirectoryHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Join me for another Small Bite, as I shed light on a hidden yet crucial connection between oral health and overall health. Listen in as I reveal the startling statistics about gum disease and its prevalence, especially in older adults. I connect the dots between periodontal disease and metabolic syndrome, highlighting the various conditions that form this syndrome.Prepare to be shocked as I uncover the alarming link between gum disease and diabetes, and explain the impact of periodontal disease on glycemic levels and systemic inflammatory responses. Find out about the bidirectional relationship between diabetes and gum disease and learn how addressing your oral health can lead to significant improvements in your overall health. This episode is packed with eye-opening insights and practical tips to help you understand the importance of oral health in the larger context of your wellbeing. Don't miss out on this critical information!Key Points From This Episode:0:01:30 - What Is Gum Disease 0:02:22 - Risk Factors and Metabolic Disease Awareness 0:08:19 - Link Between Gum Disease and Diabetes0:10:02 - Bleeding Gums and What It Could Mean0:15:53 - What You Can Do If You Have Been Diagnosed with Gum Disease Sponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistShow Links:Reset Your Oral Microbiome: A 10-Module, Self-Paced Online Course with Dr. B and Dr. StaciHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Get ready to revolutionize your oral health! We've got a wealth of wisdom to share that will empower you to take control of your smile. This episode of Ask the Dentist is all about oral health, hydration, and the powerful role of minerals and electrolytes. We dive into why staying hydrated is more than just good for your body—it's key to maintaining a vibrant smile.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:00 - Importance of Electrolytes for Oral Health0:09:33 - Saliva and Minerals for Tooth Health0:13:45 Critical pH + What Dehydrates Us0:17:01 - How Much Sodium Should One Take + What I Use0:19:10 - Does Consuming Minerals Curb Hunger?0:21:00 - How To Re-Mineralize Your WaterSponsored By:LMNTGet 8 FREE packs with any order at DrinkLMNT.com/AskTheDentistShow Links:Reset Your Oral Microbiome: A 10-Module, Self-Paced Online Course with Dr. B and Dr. StaciHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

On the first episode of my "Small Bites" series, I am going to share with you how to clean your oral appliances effectively without harming your oral microbiome.  Did you ever stop to think that your oral appliance might be contributing to an imbalance in your mouth’s microbiome? That's the startling realization I came to after noticing recurring issues with my oral health. In today's episode, we're venturing into the often-neglected realm of oral appliance care, exploring how improper cleaning routines can inadvertently disrupt our oral microbiome. We'll also dive into the potential dangers of using aggressive cleaners, and how they can have a more harmful impact than you'd imagine.Key Points From This Episode:0:03:54 - The Importance of Cleaning Oral Appliances0:06:07 - How to Tell if Your Appliances Are Not Clean0:07:09 - Ultrasonic Cleaners0:12:33 - Retainer Care and the Oral Microbiome Products Mentioned:Ultrasonic Cleaner - use code ASKTHEDENTIST for 10% off https://www.zimadental.co/discount/ASKTHEDENTISTBristle Oral Microbiome Test -  Use code “DRB” for 10% offhttps://www.bristlehealth.com/?ref=zju5nwi Check Out Dr. Mark:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Prepare to broaden your dental knowledge as we delve into the world of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in dentistry.  I'll guide you through the intricacies of SDF, discussing its components, FDA approval and off-label uses. We'll also evaluate the role of silver and fluoride in SDF and their potential benefits against dental hypersensitivity and tooth decay, arming you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about using this product.  I also confront potential risks and concerns with SDF treatment as well as silver's properties, the potential bioaccumulation, and the effects of it entering the body.Key Points From This Episode:0:05:24 - Understanding Silver Diamine Fluoride0:09:32 - Discussion on Fluoride and Silver Toothpaste 0:14:40 - Treating Cavities With SDF Varnish 0:20:47 - Contraindications and Concerns With SDF Treatment0:25:24 - Silver Diamine Fluoride Safety and Efficacy0:35:43 - SDF Procedure and Silver Accumulation ConcernsShow Links:https://oralscience.com/en/products/advantage-arrest/https://askthedentist.com/directory/How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Get ready to untangle the mysteries around children's dental care woes. In this episode, we're tackling a surprisingly common issue - loose baby teeth. We offer kid-friendly practical advice that's easy to understand and use. We also dive into a more complex case of our friend Calhoun, who's experiencing tooth decay due to low saliva count post-surgery and radiation therapy. We demystify why Calhoun has been prescribed a potent fluoride rinse and even explore potential alternatives.Key Points From This Episode:0:02:18 - Loose Baby Teeth + What to Do0:07:09 - Tooth Eruption Dental Care and Comfort 0:09:08 - Non-Fluoride Alternatives for Dental Care0:21:04 - How to sign up for my Oral Health Newsletter 0:23:05 - Importance of Professional Dental CareHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Did you know that the oral microbiome plays a crucial role in not only oral health but also in systemic health, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, and even Alzheimer's disease? Join us as we dive into this fascinating topic with Dr. David Lin, PhD, the Chief Scientific Officer at Bristle, to understand the importance of testing and interpreting our oral microbiome for better overall health.Key Points From This Episode:0:00:41 - Interpreting Oral Microbiome Test Results 0:04:33 - The Importance of the Oral Microbiome 0:09:13 - Targeted Detection of Pathogens 0:19:19 - Easy Access Health Baseline Test0:23:39 - Oral Microbiome and Halitosis 0:32:38 - Microbiome Analysis and Comparison 0:43:30 - Personalized Phage Therapy for Oral Microbiome0:47:39 - Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment 0:50:50 - Customization and Coaching for Dental Patients Check Out David LinDavid Lin on LinkedInBristleCass Nelson-DooleyInterview: Why We Shouldn’t Ignore the MicrobiomeBristle Oral Microbiome At-Home TestingHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Check Out Dr. BAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Discover how to combat recurrent decay and protect your teeth from cavities that lurk beneath fillings and dental restorations. Join me, Dr. B as I share over 36 years of functional dentistry knowledge and dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence in dentistry.Learn about the variety of fillings available, their lifespans, and the risks of polymerization shrinkage – all crucial factors in preventing recurrent decay. We'll also discuss the game-changing potential of AI in detecting decay, the importance of sticking with a trusted functional dentist, and how to find the perfect practitioner for your needs through our ever-growing directory. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain invaluable insights on maintaining your oral health and staying ahead of recurrent decay.Key Points From This Episode:0:05:45 - Recurrent Decay and Marginal Opening 0:10:27 - The Risks of Leaking Fillings 0:14:53 - Advantages of Plastic Fillings 0:18:21 - Advantages and Disadvantages of Metal Fillings 0:22:06 - AI in Dentistry 0:25:35 - Recurrent Decay and Dental Work How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Our Instagram page has seen a recent influx of questions about cavities, so today; Dr. B answers some of those questions to help you gain a better understanding of how cavities are formed and what you can do to prevent them. It seems that dentistry is caught in a tunnel-vision cycle of cavity re-restoration, but to end this cycle, we need to first understand that cavities are an ongoing disease process and also still the world’s number one disease. After laying out the differences between demineralization and remineralization, Dr. B explains the Stephan Curve and how it gives us a better understanding of how cavities are formed.  We also learn more about critical PH, how long it takes for a cavity to form, why remineralization is slower than demineralization, and the ever-present importance of saliva.  Dr. B wraps up this episode by explaining why he chose this topic and offering some useful tips on how to both treat and prevent cavity formations. Key Points From This Episode:Dr. B answers a series of questions from Instagram about cavities [00:18]A quick look at the history of dentistry and fixing cavities [01:34]The tunnel-vision cycle of re-restoration [02:38]Why it’s important to understand that cavities are a disease process [03:20]Understanding the equilibrium of demineralization and remineralization [04:54]The ins and outs of the Stephan Curve as an explanation of how cavities form [06:28]Diving deeper into demineralization: the beginning of the formation of a cavity [12:54]The tipping point of critical PH [18:01]How long it takes for a cavity to form [19:18]Exploring the enamel remineralization process [20:42]How remineralization is a slower process than demineralization [22:58]The importance of saliva quantity and quality in cavity prevention [25:00]How fluoride helps facilitate remineralization and other ways to achieve equilibrium [26:15]The way saliva promotes remineralization through proteins [29:32]Recapping everything Dr. B has discussed today and why he chose this topic [31:40]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Stephan Curve Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today we are joined by Dr. David Perlmutter to discuss how oral health (and health in general) relates to brain health. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Dr. Perlmutter’s illustrious career, what prompted him to study the brain microbiome, and how your overall health affects the health of your brain. Dr. Perlmutter has discovered that there are two primary issues causing leaky gut and in this episode, he explains what they are and how they are treated/worsened. We even delve into how the brain works, what permeates the blood-brain barrier, inflammation in the brain, and so much more! Next, we get into the nitty gritty as we discuss how oral diseases affect the brain, the effects fluoride has on the brain and IQ, and what happens when the mitochondrial brain function is disrupted. Finally, Dr. Perlmutter explains why the pineal gland calcifying prematurely is problematic. You don’t want to miss out on this incredibly informative episode, so tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing our guest, neurologist, Dr. David Perlmutter to discuss oral health as it relates to brain health [00:00:21]An overview of Dr. Perlmutter’s career so far, his achievements, awards, appearances, and books [00:01:57]The connections between oral health and overall health [00:04:36]What prompted Dr. Perlmutter to get involved in brain microbiome research and how inflammation plays a role [00:11:23]The two primary things that are causing leaky gut: dysbiosis and non-celiac gluten sensitivity and how medication and food affect gut bacteria [00:14:16]What affects the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, what types of bacteria and viruses are found in the brain, and how inflammation affects the brain [00:20:39]How to handle daunting oral diseases knowing how negatively they affect the brain and why there are times when having an inflamed brain is advantageous [00:40:35]What fluoride does to the brain and how it affects IQ, and the importance of calcium [00:44:09]What happens when mitochondrial brain function is disrupted [00:48:26]The effects when the pineal gland calcifies prematurely [00:53:00]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. David PerlmutterOral bacteria and your health - With Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. David Perlmutter on Instagram @davidperlmutterFollow Dr. David Perlmutter on Twitter @DavidPerlmutterAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

In today’s episode, Dr. Staci joins Dr. B to discuss the misinformation about flossing spread online by social media influencers. They explain why social media algorithms can be incredibly harmful, the destructive nature of clickbait and fearmongering, how studies against flossing measure up to the truth, and the positive results Dr. Staci has witnessed in her own patients who floss regularly.  Our doctors then explore exactly what social media influencers say about flossing, the vital information they’re conveniently omitting, why our hosts are irked by the iteration that flossing causes bleeding, and how some influencers use their large fan base in a highly irresponsible way. Dr. Staci’s advice is simple: Please floss! And she warns against accepting medical advice that hasn’t referenced any credible sources. Finally, we look at the Bristle Health study confirming the benefits of flossing, why Dr. B thinks that flossing is a no-brainer, and the transmissible nature of bacteria and other factors you must consider when making decisions about your oral health.  Key Points From This Episode:Dr. Staci and Dr. B discuss the misinformation being spread online about flossing [00:52]Why social media algorithms are more harmful than helpful [01:22]The perils of clickbait and fearmongering [01:45]Assessing the studies that go against flossing [01:57]What Dr. Staci has witnessed in her patients who floss regularly [03:03]The (wrong) things social media influencers are saying about flossing [03:49]The vital information that influencers are omitting [05:59]Why Doctors B and Staci are irked by the statement that “flossing causes bleeding” [08:07]How it’s utterly irresponsible to use a big following to spread misinformation [09:02]Dr. Staci’s professional advice: Please floss [10:11]Talking about the Bristle study that confirms the benefits of flossing [11:00]Water picks as a great alternative to flossing [13:30]Dr. B gives his take on why flossing is a no-brainer [14:14]Why you need to also consider the transmissible nature of bacteria [15:39]A quick summary of what we’ve covered in this episode [18:33]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Bristle Research: The effect of flossing on the oral microbiome‘How to clean the back of your tongueBristle Health Slate Electric FlosserAsk the Dentist Shop | FlossDr. Staci WhitmanFollow Dr. Staci on Instagram @doctor_staciFollow Dr. Staci on Twitter @doctorstaciFollow Dr. Staci on Facebook @doctorstaciAsk the DentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

In a slight detour from our usual undertaking, today’s episode is a somewhat negative review of a patented anti-tartar toothpaste that has been brought to Dr. B’s attention (thank you, Leonard, for the question). After giving a brief background on TartarEnd®, Dr. B lays out the claims of the product and how they measure up to the truth, as well as why the information on its website seems too good to believe. We discuss how to properly check the ingredient list of a product, what you’ll find in TartarEnd® and, more importantly, what’s missing, and the concerns that Dr. B has about this anti-tartar toothpaste. We end with learning about the dangers of using any patented toothpaste and why you should never use a product that hasn’t been backed by scientific studies. If you are a representative of TartarEnd® and would like to reach out, we welcome you to do so either via our website, askthedentist.com, or through any of our social media channels. Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s topic, which is new to Dr. B (and thanks to Leonard for asking) [00:22]Background on the product in question, TartarEnd® [02:08]What TartarEnd® claims to accomplish and how those claims measure up to the truth [02:29]Why the information on the TartarEnd® website seems too good to be true [06:11]How to properly check the ingredient list of any product [06:51]A closer look at the TartarEnd ® ingredients, and notably, what’s missing [07:19]Dr. B’s concerns about the anti-tartar toothpaste [08:40]The problems with the claims made by (any) patented toothpaste [10:30]Why you should stay away from products that have not been backed by studies [14:05]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Article about vitamin k2Article about calciumTarTarEnd®TarTarEnd® on AmazonAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Opinions on oral irrigators are varied and in this episode, Dr. B explains how his has changed over time and why. In response to a listener’s question about the benefits and uses of water flossers, he dives deep into the origins of the tool, why he was previously wary of them, and how they should be used to optimize safety and effectiveness. Dr. B specifies who should use water picks and why, and shares the caveats for using them, as well as his concerns about the use of dental floss. Tune in to discover the ideal personal oral health toolkit to optimize your overall health!Key Points From This Episode:A brief recap of James Nestor’s recent breath retreat [00:16]The growth of our listenership [02:26]Introducing today’s topic: water flossers [02:50]How Dr. B’s opinion of water flossers has changed over the years [03:28]The early origins of oral irrigators [04:50]The results of various studies on water flossers [07:03]How a water flosser should work for safety and effectiveness [08:25]Dr. B’s current recommendations for using a water pick [11:34] His concerns about the use of dental floss [12:17]Caveats for using water flossers [13:45]The ideal personal oral hygiene toolkit [15:20]How oral health impacts overall health [17:58]How to find a functional dentist [19:25]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:James NestorWebetop Water FlosserRADIUS Silk FlossAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Microbes can create molecules that help mineralize teeth and prevent invaders from coming in and causing cavities. They can also be the cause of various different types of oral diseases including tooth decay, thrush, and burning mouth syndrome. Furthermore, Alzheimer's, adverse pregnancy outcomes, diabetes, and certain types of cancer have been found to be associated with certain microbes in our mouths. During this episode, Dr. B is joined by Dr. David Lin for a discussion around how a dysbiotic microbiome causes ill health within and outside of the mouth, the importance of doing oral microbiome testing on every patient who comes into your practice, and the different types of oral microbiome testing tools available to you. Discoveries that have been made about the oral microbiome in recent years have catalyzed a new era of evidence-based dentistry, and a dentist that is not considering the oral microbiome is practicing below the standard of care, so be sure to listen to this episode. Key Points From This Episode:What the oral microbiome is and the role it plays in oral disease [03:44]The different types of biofilm found in the mouth [05:28] Symbiosis versus dysbiosis in the context of the oral microbiome [06:46]Examples of the roles played by beneficial microbes [08:57]The link between your oral microbes and your gut [10:46]Two examples of microbial interactions that demonstrate the importance of community [11:13]Exploring the different types of oral microbiome testing [15:54]A case study that highlights the value of microbiome testing [31:18]Recapping how oral health is linked to overall health [34:51]The correlation between personal health data and behavioral change [37:45]Factors that affect the pH levels in your mouth [45:16]How to approach the prescribing of antibiotics [48:26]The process of assessing microbiome testing results [51:28]Reiterating the connection between oral health and systemic health [54:20]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:David Lin, Ph.D. at BristleBristle Health on InstagramGet your oral health test kit from BristleDr. David Lin on LinkedInDr. David Lin on TwitterAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

David Lin is the go-to guy for oral microbiome! During today’s conversation, we get an overview of the oral microbiome, and how it should be treated. Through our discussion about prebiotics and probiotics, feeding microbes, and researching the oral microbiome, you’ll learn what we mean by ‘weeding, feeding and seeding,’ and when to implement each strategy. We know firsthand that the prevention route can reduce pain and maximize efficiency, and today’s episode teaches listeners plenty of vital truths to do just that. All dentists want to be a hero to their patients. Today’s episode is sure to equip you with some powerful tools to help you to make a difference in the lives of your dentistry patients. Thanks for tuning in!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to David Lin and his background in oral microbiome [00:25]The weed, feed, or seed concept and how it relates to the oral microbiome [01:50]Prebiotics and probiotics [03:01]Feeding the right microbe [05:30]What ‘weeding’ means in the microbiome and what it looks like [08:30]Antimicrobials that work for a client neglecting their oral health [09:16]The right time to ‘seed’ and how to do it [12:25]Determining which combination of weeding, feeding, and seeding to use [15:17]Choosing an appropriate starting point for each particular client [17:52]Early research on the oral microbiome [21:05]Questions to ask your dentist around pre- and probiotics [23:09]The benefit of knowing that the prevention route is much less painful [27:01]What dentists want out of their patient relationships [27:40]David’s preferred food that supports gut health [31:05]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:David Lin on LinkedInBristleCass Nelson-DooleyInterview: Why we Shouldn’t Ignore the MicrobiomeSlate FlosserAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

No matter what you eat, how much you exercise, how skinny or young or wise you are, none of it matters if you’re not breathing properly. Today’s guest has written a revolutionary book called Breath, which challenges the way that we think about breath and its implications for our overall health. In this episode, you’ll hear about James Nestor’s work as a journalist, researching, writing, and publishing the book. You’ll also hear about a tool that James has purchased which has completely changed his perspective on air quality. Join us for an enriching conversation about all things breath and breathing, as well as the importance of good sleep for a healthy lifestyle today. Thanks for tuning in!Key Points From This Episode:Writing and publishing Breath, and its global impact [05:17]Seeing the response to Breath while touring globally [08:25]Why James does not consider himself a medical journalist [10:25]A pulmonologist’s perspective on the book [19:43]The body’s ability to compensate for poor-quality breath [27:03]How James came up with the term ‘pulmonaut’ [30:33]James’s experience of writing and publishing the book [35:55]The CO2 Monitor that has changed his perspective on air quality [40:04]Where James is at with regards to writing another book [46:50]Why he doesn’t talk about what he’s writing next [48:08]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:James NestorJames Nestor on LinkedInJames Nestor on InstagramJames Nestor on FacebookCar, Vehicle, Aircraft Carbon Monoxide CO DetectorBreath on AmazonDeep on AmazonFast Food Nation on Amazon20000 Leagues Under the Sea on AmazonWhy We Sleep on AmazonBREATH: Expert Q&A | Mouth TapingAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Flossing has been around for a long time (since the 1800s, in fact!). And today, flossing is considered to be an integral part of an effective everyday oral healthcare routine. But for a good many of us, flossing is a difficult chore that we often end up avoiding. This is due in large part to how time-consuming traditional flossing can be (especially if you’re still struggling with long loops of flosser string as you navigate those hard-to-reach sections at the back of your mouth). While there have been some advances over the years in the type of flossing products on the market, the new Slate Flosser, designed by our guest, Danny Snyder, is a uniquely innovative invention that is having a transformative effect on how people floss. In today’s episode, Dr. B sits down with Danny Snyder to discuss his new electric flosser product, the Slate Flosser, where he got the idea from, and the incredible ways it is helping people floss better and more regularly without the hassle that comes with traditional flossing. If you’ve ever struggled with flossing, and are curious about how you can improve your technique, then you won’t want to miss this informative conversation!Key Points From This Episode:How Danny reinvented the way people floss with his new product, the Slate Flosser [02:37]Tips to help you floss more regularly [04:42]How flossing benefits and supports your overall oral health [06:01]How Danny and his wife came up with the name Slate Flosser [14:02]A description of the tongue scraper that is paired with the Slate Flosser and the central flaw of many other tongue scrapers on the market today [14:36]A breakdown of the Slate Flosser heads and how often users can expect to replace them [16:37]Advice on how to use the Slate Flosser if you have tight contacts [18:38]How the design features of the Slate Flosser are allowing people with physical impairments to floss [19:53]Danny’s opinions on the best time of day to floss [23:44]Find out more about Danny, like where he practices and how his kids are enjoying his new product [27:37]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Slate Electric Flosser - use the promo code “askthedentist” for 10% offSmile Source SpokaneReach FlosserAsk the DentistFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

A big part of modern dentistry is occupied by the subject and practice of teeth whitening, and while these aspirations and values do not have to be a problem per se, there are some serious things to consider when broaching the subject. Whitening has grown to be the most desirable dental procedure, and a remarkable dimension of this is the frequent requests from parents for brightening their children's teeth. As functional dentists, we have some important concerns to raise in this regard, and there are some simple rules and facts that all parents should be aware of before diving into bleaching treatments. In this episode, we explore some of the effective natural methods for whitening, what the stance of a dentist should be in these conversations and procedures, and how to mitigate the strong influence many young people experience from beauty standards on social media. We also spend some time talking about things to avoid, while noting the value of self-esteem and its relationship to our personal appearance. So to hear it all from Dr. B and Dr. Staci, be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:Common questions and requests from parents about whitening children's teeth [01:36]Natural approaches to whitening teeth [06:52]Thoughts on dentists bringing up the subject of whitening with their patients [08:25]Issues and dangers regarding bleaching [11:01]The problem with charcoal toothpaste and certain types of usage [15:35]Touching on the real impact of fluoride overuse [20:22]Veneers and bleaching; common practices for young people on social media [22:00]Comments and concerns about different light treatments [26:11]Misinformation and the role of dentists in correcting this [33:54]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistDr. Staci WhitmanAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsLumineux Whitening StripsInvisalignCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Once again, we are thrilled to welcome the impeccable Dr. Staci Whitman to the show, as she and Dr. B fill you in on everything you need to know about sores in your mouth. We begin by taking a look at the differences between canker sores and cold sores, why you should reexamine your oral products, and the often overlooked harmful effects of sodium lauryl sulfate. Then, we discuss skin trauma and mouth breathing as causes of mouth sores, and we later add stress and fatigue to the list. When choosing oral products for children, you should do so with careful consideration, and our hosts give examples of common oral ailments found in kids. You should always seek medical advice when mouth sores are a common problem for you, and you’d be wise to avoid certain essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, and other harmful products. For more on how the oral microbiome relates to mouth sores, why Dr. Staci is obsessed with pickleball, and the highs and lows of the week, tune in now! Key Points From This Episode:Dr. Staci’s obsession with pickleball as she asks the audience for pickleball tips [01:20]Doctors B and Staci discuss the electric flosser and bee propolis [02:38]The difference between a canker sore and a cold sore [11:11]Why you should take a closer look at the oral products you use [16:11]Breaking down the harmful effects of sodium lauryl sulfate [17:48]How skin trauma and mouth breathing can cause mouth sores [20:42]The power of salt [22:01]Some nutritional advice for dealing with mouth sores [28:24]Why essential oils are not always a good idea [32:42]The overuse of hydrogen peroxide and other harmful chemicals/products [33:47]How the oral microbiome could affect mouth sores  [36:56]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Waterpik Electric FlosserBeekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Throat SprayBristleList of names for sodium lauryl sulfateSaturated salt water rinse recipeAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM) Certified Practitioners set the standard for functional medicine in their industry and today’s guest is no exception! In this episode, Dr. B is joined by Dr. Staci Whitman; an IFM-certified pediatric dentist, founder of NoPo Kids Dentistry, and a repeat visitor on the show. Tuning in, you’ll hear about Dr. Staci’s holistic approach to her practice and why she had a hard time “bootstrapping” the education she needed to become a true leader in functional dentistry, which still isn’t accepted as a specialization by the ADA. Dr. Staci highlights the importance of being proactive and empowering patients and shares her advice for any practitioners looking to take a more natural, whole-body approach to dentistry. Tune in to learn more about what it can look like when medicine and dentistry actually work together, plus get a sneak peek at the exciting functional dentistry course that Dr. B and Dr. Staci are codeveloping!Key Points From This Episode:How Dr. Staci’s Instagram following contributes to (or detracts from) her practice [00:33]Ways that social media engagement can help counteract patient gaslighting [02:28]A better understanding of Dr. Staci’s recent IFM accreditation [03:00]How Dr. Staci is helping to move the needle on a functional dentistry curriculum [06:22]Some of the other courses that Dr. Staci is taking to supplement her holistic approach [07:18]Learn more about the Institute of Functional Medicine [08:54]What it looks like when medicine and dentistry actually work together [14:00]Some barriers for traditional providers who want to take a more holistic approach [17:31]The functional dentistry course that Dr. B and Dr. Staci are launching soon [21:33]This week’s highs and lows, why you should be kind to your colleagues, and more! [26:40]How to find a functional provider using the Functional Dentist Directory [33:36]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Staci Whitman's Website: https://doctorstaci.com/Follow Dr. Staci Whitman on Instagram @doctor_staciTeeth: The Story of Beauty, Inequality, and the Struggle for Oral Health in AmericaC-Reactive Protein (CRP) Testing LetterBristle Oral Microbiome Testing and CareDr. Burhenne's website Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Craze lines. Those little fractures you find on teeth could be an early indicator that something is wrong. How do you uncover the root cause and how can you nip it in the bud as early as possible?(Note that there is a difference between craze lines and cracked teeth, the latter of which is a serious issue for which you would need a root canal.) To identify craze lines, Dr. B recommends what’s called a “transillumination device” to spot them even before they become visible to the naked eye and become an aesthetic issue. At that point, you would need a dental restoration; although, a potential solution to avoid this is to whiten your teeth and lighten the craze lines to render them invisible. You may have to go through this process once every few years. If restorative work is unavoidable, what is needed is the application of a veneer which should last anywhere between 15-20 years before needing to be redone. What are the root causes of craze lines? They include bruxism (teeth grinding during sleep or in the daytime), misaligned teeth, nail-biting, and chewing on non-food items (ex. ice, bone, pencils, etc.). As with all issues, real or suspected, the best course of action is to talk to your dentist to address it as early as possible!Key Points From This Episode:●     Introducing today’s topic: How to identify craze lines [00:00]●     How to use a transillumination device to identify craze lines early [01:23]●     Root causes of craze lines [04:00]●     Cracked teeth versus craze lines [06:17]●     How to whiten your teeth to render craze lines invisible [07:46]●     How sudden temperature changes can cause craze lines [11:02]Resources:Click Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

In this episode, Dr. B addresses the question; what are the alternatives to fluoride varnish on toddlers' teeth?  He highlights the dangers it poses to the human body and the alternatives to fluoride in varnishes and toothpaste. Dr. B explains the science behind the use of varnishes, the steps being taken to ensure available alternatives to fluoride varnishes and the challenges with creating and adopting these alternatives.Key Takeaways❏      Fluoride is a neurotoxin that should not be in our mouths because it gets absorbed, goes to the brain, and has permanent effects. Hence it should be removed from our toothpaste and water. ❏      Fluoride varnish is a highly concentrated form of fluoride, containing 5% sodium fluoride, which is applied to the tooth surface after cleaning to help the teeth remineralize or repair themselves. ❏      Varnish has chemicals in it that enable it to be painted on the tooth surface. With this, fluoride in the varnish can be continually released over three to four hours into the saliva to recalcify teeth. However, fluoride is toxic, and as it gets released into the saliva, it is absorbed into circulation through the oral mucosa from where it goes into the brain. ❏      Although fluoride is widely used, there are not many good studies on it.  While some studies say it is good for the prevention of dental caries, the FDA only recognizes its use in desensitizing sensitive teeth but not as an anti-decay agent. ❏      Currently, in the US, there are no well-known alternatives to either fluoride or the chemicals used to make the varnish stick. The only viable alternative to fluoride is a biomimetic material already in use in Europe and Japan, which contains Hydroxyapatite, a natural building block of the enamel and dentine. ❏      Say no to fluoride treatment, and  address the causes of decay.  Use hydroxyapatite toothpaste two or three times a day.❏      Very soon, hydroxyapatite varnish will also be available in stores.❏      If you have been shamed about declining fluoride, find another dentist. Episode Timestamps●     [01:50] A short overview of the dangers of Fluoride use. ●     [03:32] About fluoride varnishes and why they should be discouraged. ●     [10:08] Alternatives to Fluoride varnish. ●     [16:57] How can the industry change from the use of fluoride?Resources:Karex hydroxyapatite ToothpasteDr. B’s recommended hydroxyapatite toothpastesClick Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

 “I have a question about fluoride varnishing on toddlers’ teeth: What would be the alternative treatment?”Fluoride varnish is a highly-concentrated form of fluoride, typically composed of 5% sodium fluoride. It is applied to the tooth’s surface after cleaning and lasts up to four hours. The problem with fluoride is not the mineral’s contact with your teeth, but the coating serving as a “glue” which ensures that the fluoride sticks to your saliva. Unfortunately, this “glue” causes the fluoride to absorb into the oral mucosa, allowing it to enter the brain via the bloodstream. This is especially harmful when happening to a developing brain. So, what alternatives are out there for your child? 40 years ago, Japan developed a biomimetic material made of a natural substance used as one of the building blocks of enamel: hydroxyapatite. Hydroxyapatite does, in fact, work excellently as a varnish, and there are plenty of natural plant-based substances (including a probiotic) within it that allow the mineral to stick to your kids’ teeth for two-to-three hours. You can find certain toothpastes in the U.S. containing small, safe concentrations of hydroxyapatite, and a dedicated varnish is in the works which will be released within the first half of 2023, so stay tuned!Key Points From This Episode:●     Introducing today’s topic: The problem with fluoride●     Hydroxyapatite as an alternative to fluoride varnish●     Upcoming varnish products made with hydroxyapatitResources:Podcast episode with Dhru PurohitHydroxyapatite Vs. Fluoride blog postFluoride Action NetworkClick Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Dr. B sits down with Natasha Beck. The mother of four is the face behind Dr. Organic Mommy, a platform created to help every family make healthy decisions for themselves, drawing on her experience as a mom and her expertise in psychology, neuroscience, and public health. She is also a board member of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping you live your healthiest life. When working at LA County + USC Medical Center, Natasha saw firsthand how diet and lifestyle affected children’s behavior, exacerbating conditions like Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism. As a result, she became keenly focused on her patient’s diets and lifestyles and worked to help their families make healthy choices. Her parenting method combines a number of philosophies, including RIE Parenting, the Pikler approach, Waldorf and Montessori education, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy and play therapy. Listen in as Natasha dives into her best practices around raising children, good oral habits, and improving one’s overall health while considering environment and epigenetics. Natasha also talks about the often-overlooked value of teaching your child how to regulate emotions. She encourages parents not to be afraid of tantrums because these are probably the best teachable moments in childhood. In other words: “Making your child happy is not your job. Your job is making your child comfortable with being uncomfortable.” Through utilizing tried-and-true strategies such as modeling, previewing, storytelling, and demonstrating predictability—whether to wean a child off of pacifiers, minimize fear at the dentist, or instill good eating habits—parents will be able to provide an educational foundation for their children that sets them up to make their own decisions as they grow.Key Points::●      Introducing today’s topic: How Natasha’s academic and clinical background helped her to be a better mom [04:15]●      Making your child comfortable with being uncomfortable [07:21]●      Weaning your child off of pacifiers [09:20]●      Dealing with a nervous child at the dentist [16:58]●      Modeling oral hygiene to your kids before bed [24:03]●      Instilling good eating habits in your kids [31:43]● Make sure you do not shame your child as you educate them on healthy eating [37:48]●      Being purposeful and mindful of your parenting style [43:58] About Natasha:Dr. Organic MommyEnvironmental Working Group (EWG)Follow Natasha Beck on Instagram @dr.organicmommyResources:Click Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the Dentist About Dr. Mark Burhenne Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

 Dr. B sits down with Dawn Winkelmann, a Speech-Language Pathologist and Pediatric Feeding Therapist specializing in infant swallowing. She is the co-author of the book Making Mealtime EZPZ, featured on The View and Shark Tank.Dawn is also the product designer for EZPZ, a company that offers developmental feeding tools to help children feed independently and meet critical milestones. Dawn provides in-home feeding therapy and online coaching through her private practice, helping parents start solids safely with the baby-led weaning (BLW) approach. She also teaches techniques to help with picky eating, tube feeding, children with special needs (Autism, Down syndrome, etc.), and medically-compromised children who struggle to eat various foods and liquids.  Dawn talks about the moment she grew tired of seeing the same mistakes repeated again and again regarding how babies, toddlers, and even college kids eat and drink—mistakes that stunt facial development. She had witnessed “all of these delays, damages, and disorders that come from the abuse and misuse of everyday feeding products.” At the same time, Dawn understood the difficulty that medical providers faced in explaining to parents what their child is supposed to be doing, without having the products to support what they are being asked to do. So she decided to invent those products herself.She offers her best strategies to help your baby graduate from bottle feeding to open-cup drinking, as well as wean them off a pacifier and introduce alternative ways to self-soothe.Key Points From This Episode:●      Introducing today’s topic: Inventing products that facilitate kids’ independent feeding [02:33]●      Why babies shouldn’t rely on bottle-feeding from 4-9 months of age [07:31]●      Getting your child off the baby bottle [12:35]●      The difference in developmental timing between open-cup drinking to straw drinking [22:45]●      How to alter your children’s straws if ezpz is not available in your country [31:24]●      When a child should start eating solid foods [34:15]●      Weaning your baby off a pacifier [38:49]●      Your child’s mealtime milestones [50:09]Pre-feeding activities checklistgo.msdawnslp.com/PreFeedingChecklistInstagramWww.instagram.com/msdawnslpWebsiteWww.MsDawnSLP.comWww.ezpzfun.com with your affiliate code askthedds10Resources:Click Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the Dentist About Dr. Mark Burhenne Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Registered dental hygienists Sarah Hornsby and Melissa Mugno sit with Dr. B to discuss the importance of myofunctional therapy not just to one’s oral health, but to their overall health.Sarah and Melissa define myofunctional therapy as the identification and treatment of issues within the oral cavity and the head/neck that are affecting potentially any area of the body, from the airway to the stability of occlusion, to the way we speak, chew, and swallow. Myofunctional therapy consists of personalized exercises aimed at accomplishing four goals: To be able to breathe through your nose all day and all night; to have your tongue fully on the roof of your mouth all day and all night; to keep your lips together all day and all night, and to swallow correctly.In 2014, Melissa became an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist to tie all her experience and knowledge together so that she could begin to help patients, with a focus on the whole body.From the understated importance of the tongue as “the mouth’s natural retainer” to stamping out compensation behaviors via neuromuscular reeducation, Sarah and Melissa offer a thorough guide on the complementarity between oral health and myofunctional therapy.Dr. B concurs, saying, “A dentist that does not practice with a myofunctional therapist or does not have access to one is not practicing dentistry correctly.”Key Points :●      Introducing today’s topic: What is myofunctional therapy and why is it important? [02:08]●      Buteyko Breathing Technique versus myofunctional therapy [14:35]●      What patients can expect out of myofunctional therapy [17:58]●      Why undergo myofunctional therapy before surgery [22:15]●      How long it takes to get long-term results from myofunctional therapy [29:39]●      How to determine whether you need to see a myofunctional therapist [32:49]●      How dentists can work with myofunctional therapists on oral appliances [43:32]Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahkhornsby YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCitw9axoo6_VAaQXmjRNLuw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahKHornsby/ Faceology’s website: https://myfaceology.com/ Resources:Melissa Mugno Webisite: https://www.melissamugno.com/Click Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today’s episode covers an essential aspect of healthcare that is not often discussed and just so happens to be the root cause of the majority of chronic diseases: facial development. We shed light on the ramifications of an underdeveloped lower face and what we need to keep in mind if we want to minimize this phenomenon in ourselves and our children.Lending his expertise to this vital topic is special guest Dr. Steven Park. He is a former ENT surgeon and sleep medicine doctor based on the East Coast. For the past 13 years in private practice and 9 years in academia, Dr. Park has helped thousands of men and women breathe better, sleep better, and live more fulfilling lives. He is the author of the Amazon Best-selling book, Sleep, Interrupted: A physician reveals the #1 reason why so many of us are sick and tired Dr. B and Dr. Park bridge the gap between medicine and dentistry in this much-needed discussion on facial development and how to identify improper lower facial development in yourself or in your children. They also speak on how the average human facial structure has changed even in just the past few decades, touching on the rise in prominence of thinner faces and crooked teeth, among other things.Unfortunately, there is still very little collaboration between dentists and physicians, and, from a profit point of view, there is little incentive to do so. Dr. B notes that “dentistry is under attack by organized healthcare.” In a similar vein, Dr. Park highlights the lack of proper training and education when it comes to tongue ties and how they directly impact lower facial development.“By educating the public,” he says, “we can do a lot more to help people than through trying to change it from the top-down.”Key Points From This Episode:●      Introducing today’s topic: What is facial development and why is it important? [07:20]●      Good facial development versus improper facial development [15:43]●      How the tongue factors into facial development [39:59]●      Dr. Park’s mouth-taping tips and Breathe-Rite strips [1:18:39]About Our Guest:Dr. Steven ParkResources:Dr. Steven Park YoutubeDr. Steven Park PodcastJames Nestor Book: BreathDr. Steven Park: 7 Insanely Simple Ways to Unblock Your Stuffy NoseClick Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today, Dr. B welcomes  Dr. David Lin to the podcast to discuss how one company is reinventing our approach to oral health—by highlighting the foundational importance of the oral microbiome. Dr. Lin has a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology and is the Co-Founder and CSO of the startup Bristle. The newly launched company is on a mission to help people understand and improve their oral health using its non-invasive, at-home oral microbiome test. Your saliva is tested and used to measure the bacteria that cause bad breath, tooth decay, and gum inflammation. Using the insights gathered via these tests, clients are given personalized recommendations to kickstart their journey to better oral and overall health. Dr. Lin breaks down Bristle’s comprehensive oral microbiome test, who should take advantage of it, and how to take action on resulting insights and recommendations. The oral microbiome includes all the bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea in your mouth and is a “community” that, under symbiosis, prevents disease. Dr. Lin explains how preventing dysbiosis and maintaining a thriving oral microbiome leads to improved remineralization and its immunological benefits, such as preventing oral cancer, ulcerations of the oral mucosa, and gum disease. Dr. Lin also shares why a high-fiber, low-to-no-sugar diet is the absolute best way to minimize cavities and boost the oral microbiome for the long term. Dr. Lin dives deep into the crucial yet often overlooked link between systemic disease and oral disease. It is only when the microbiome is in a state of imbalance that symptoms of poor oral health begin to manifest themselves. He discusses the limitations of “reactive” dentistry, which only considers visible symptoms while failing to consider the health of the oral microbiome.Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s topic: What is the oral microbiome and why is it paradigm-shifting in the world of oral health? [05:38]How to determine whether or not your oral microbiome is functioning well [11:04]The benefits of maintaining a good oral microbiome [15:40]How an unhealthy gut microbiome translates into systemic disease [20:58]The limitations and potentially harmful effects of using oral healthcare products [24:48]An introduction to Bristle’s comprehensive oral microbiome test [36:08]Who should take the test? [43:31]How to take action based on the results of the test [48:57]The future of Bristle and its technology [56:56] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:BristleGet your oral health test kit from BristleClick Here to Record a Message for Dr. BFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark Burhenne Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

On this episode of Ask the Dentist, Dr. Mark Burhenne takes a deep dive into Spermidine and the many benefits it offers not only in optimizing oral health but also supporting longevity. He explains why this critical building block – widely available and well-tested – is essential (most especially if you’re undergoing treatment for gum disease). In response to a listener’s question, Dr. B spells out exactly how Spermidine, a naturally occurring polyamine, plays a vital role in cell function and survival. KEY TAKEAWAYS:o     (03:30) A little background about Spermidine as a supplement to support both gum health and longevity.o    (04:15) Understanding the concept of Blue Zones, as well as the inequitable access to healthy resources to support long, healthy lives.o    (19:20) A closer look at the mouth’s vulnerabilities to inflammation, autoimmune over-response, and how it can be modulated by practitioners through gum treatment.FURTHER READING/ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:"Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who've Lived the Longest," by Dan Buettner."Food Fix: How to Save Our Health, Our Economy, Our Communities, and Our Planet -- One Bite at a Time," by Mark Hyman, M.D. Oxford Health Span – maker of high-quality longevity supplements. Study: The polyamines putrescine, spermidine and spermine in human gingival crevicular fluidIf you enjoyed this episode of Ask the Dentist, you might also enjoy reading Dr. B’s bestselling book, "The 8-Hour Sleep Paradox: How We Are Sleeping Our Way to Fatigue, Disease, and Unhappiness."ABOUT DR. B:Dr. Mark Burhenne is a bestselling author and family and family dentist who has been in private practice for 30 years. His focus is preventative and functional care with patients who come to him from all over the world. He received his degree from the Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco and is a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He is a TEDx speaker and his advice regularly appears on NPR, CNN, Prevention, Men's Health, and MindBodyGreen, and national television. SpermidineAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

The hallmark of functional dentistry is its holistic approach, and Dr. Mark Burhenne’s guests on this episode of Ask the Dentist are Exhibit A. Dr. Kimberly Baer and Dr. Jennifer Tipograph are sharing thoughts on the many benefits associated with their integrative approach and use of non-reactive dental implant techniques. Their toxin-free, bio-friendly family practice, based just outside Washington, DC, offers the gold standard for functional dentistry. And why are those dental implants so important? You’ll learn about the many ways having a full set of teeth is critical to overall systemic health and lifespan. It’s about more than chewing and smiling!  KEY TAKEAWAYS:(09:27) Putting the Pieces Together: Coming to understand the role of heavy metals in triggering a spectrum of mental and physical health issues. (14:37) Different protocols functional dentists deploy to help patients maintain optimal health and integration of their implants, including markers for inflammation.(18:19) An overview of what an implant really is and how thoroughly its incorporated in  bone, (22:02) What’s the optimal timing for placing an implant?(27:08) All about bone grafting.(40:35) All the reasons (some surprising!) it’s important to keep a full set of teeth.FURTHER READING/ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:About alternative dentistry advocate Hal Huggins, who campaigned against the use of dental amalgam fillings.About The Klinghardt Institute and Heart of Healing.About Ingvar Branemark, the Swedish physician and researcher whose accidental discovery made him the father of the modern dental implant.About Swiss Dental Solutions, a thought leader on dental implant protocols.About the Counterstrain Methodology.About Airway Growth and Function.ABOUT DR. KIMBERLY BAER: WEBSITE | LINKEDINABOUT DR. JENIFER TIPOGRAPH: WEBSITE | LINKEDINAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

On today’s episode of Ask the Dentist, Dr. B breaks down the myths and misconceptions surrounding glycerin in toothpaste. He unpacks the question:“Does glycerin in toothpaste coat the teeth and prevent absorption of minerals?” Here is the short answer: Glycerin’s solubility factor is actually quite high, and it does not seal your teeth off from all the important ingredients in saliva. Unfortunately, there is a current of misinformation surrounding glycerin, amplified especially by social media. Dr. B reminds us that, as new research comes out, many of the things that society as a whole has deemed “true” can change. What was once thought of as harmless is proven otherwise, and what was once demonized is shown to, in fact, be beneficial. In discussing the benefits of glycerin, Dr. B highlights two groups. The first is the elderly and those who are suffering from cancer. When treating either of these two groups, it is important to keep the pH of the mouth as neutral as possible—between 6.8-7.2, to be exact—and without saliva that is impossible. Dr. B recommends using Biotene, which contains artificial saliva in gel form, made up of 100% glycerin. Biotene addresses low saliva flow and has a neutral pH. While it does not have all the wonderful ingredients that saliva has, it can save you from getting cavities and the consequences that follow.Artificial saliva, says Dr. B, is absolutely key if you are low on saliva and getting a lot of decay, or if your dentist tells you that you have a dry mouth.He adds that chewing gum, particularly xylitol, helps in certain cases when it comes to stimulating saliva flow. But, if your saliva glands are temporarily shut down, it is much more preferable to use a product that is loaded with glycerin.Dr. B closes the discussion with a three-ingredient recipe list for his ideal toothpaste: water, hydroxyapatite, a prebiotic, and silica as the binder (rather than glycerin). He reminds us that, as an overarching goal, we need to nourish and feed—not weed—the oral microbiome.Key Points From This Episode:●      Introducing today’s topic: Addressing common myths surrounding glycerin, and how social media has exacerbated misinformation [00:26]●      Does glycerin in toothpaste coat the teeth and prevent the absorption of minerals? [02:32]●      The benefits of artificial saliva for the elderly and those suffering from cancer [03:32]●      In conclusion: Glycerin is not harmful. In fact, it is crucial for dental health. [05:11]●      When is it time to weed your oral microbiome? [08:50]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Midnight snacking is quite common for those with Type 1 diabetes, who need to maintain their blood sugar levels. If you do find yourself reaching for a simple source of sugar after bedtime though, should you brush your teeth afterward? Today, Dr. B answers this question by sharing his recommendations for which snacks he believes are best and how to take care of your oral hygiene in the middle of the night, from swishing with water to taping your mouth and more!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s topic: do you need to brush your teeth after a midnight snack? [01:59]Dr. B’s suggestions, from investing in a CGM to keeping juice on your nightstand [05:57]Why he recommends swishing your mouth with water rather than getting up to brush [07:03]The benefits of mouth taping for reducing your chances of tooth decay [07:18]How your sleep will improve if you address sleep apnea first [08:26]Why you might want to try experimenting with other fruit and vegetable juices [12:50]How to Submit Your Question:Click Here to Record a Message for Dr. BLinks Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Most patients smile when they hear about Invisalign, as it’s both affordable and effective. However, as soon as interproximal reduction (IPR) is mentioned, their hackles go up. Today’s question is all about IPR: what it is, its role in aligner therapy, and whether it’s a safe procedure. The enquirer in question is worried that IPR will affect the health of her teeth long-term and, in this episode, Dr. B gives an in-depth explanation of the uses, precision, procedure, and safety of IPR in the context of aligner therapy (when administered professionally). You’ll find out what questions to ask your dentist prior to receiving treatment and what to look out for post-IPR. If the safety of IPR is a question of concern for you, tune in today to find out all you need to know about this intricate, yet effective procedure!Key Points From This Episode:Today’s question: What is IPR, how does it relate to Invisalign treatment, and is it safe in the long run? [01:29]The cosmetic and practical benefits of Invisalign [02:43]What interproximal reduction (IPR) is and the role it plays in aligner therapy [05:46] How Dr. B performs IPR in his practice [07:01]The importance of doing IPR correctly [08:06]How 3D scans ensure precision and safety [09:11]What the correct execution of IPR involves and achieves [10:03]The incredible precision of Invisalign in terms of space management [13:01]What to look out for post-IPR treatment [13:36]The negative side effects of an overly aggressive Invisalign [13:51]The safety of IPR if done professionally [14:33]Is it wise to deal directly with Aligner companies without professional guidance? [16:18]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsSmileDirectClubCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today’s question comes from Megan who found herself experiencing very serious gum sensitivity four days after getting a filling. In light of the fact that she has more cavities to be filled, she would like to know about the cause of this pain and whether or not she should be taking a different approach to the care of her gums in the future. In this episode, Dr. B explains the process of putting in a filling, how the technique of putting in a regular filling differs from a two or multi-surface filling, and how the band necessary for the latter can cause this post-op discomfort. He breaks down different scenarios of why you may experience discomfort at various points after your filling, what causes this discomfort, and how to treat it in each situation. If you suspect you may have any fillings in the future, tune in today to find out everything you need to know about the specific causes and treatments for any post-filling discomfort.Key Points From This Episode:Today’s question: Why do some people experience pain or sensitivity after a filling and should one take a different approach to the care of their gums? [01:59]The first of two scenarios of what you may experience after a filling and how you should treat it [02:59]Scenario two: what a patient may experience on the third or fourth night after a filling [03:53]Insight into the process of putting in a filling and why a band is often used [04:10]What you can expect from the filling substance in a regular filling [05:55]How the filling process is different if the cavity is in the side of the tooth [07:11]What can go wrong with the band that can cause discomfort on the night of the filling [09:28]How discomfort experienced three or four days later is usually caused by debris [10:58]The third scenario as a combination of the previous two [12:42]Why Megan should bring up her concerns with her dentist and consider a follow-up appointment [13:29]Dr. B explains why there’s nothing different that she can do the next time [14:23]What can cause post-op pain months or weeks later: an overhang [14:54]What an open-contact is and how this can also be caused by the bands used in fillings [16:48]A recap of the different things that can cause gum pain after a filling and how to tell which one you are experiencing [18:55]Why it is possible to have a filling done and experience no pain whatsoever [19:51]How common Megan’s problem is and Dr. B’s final words of advice on this topic [20:57]The importance of always asking the dentist [22:32]How to reach out to Dr. B if you have a question or find out more information [24:19]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhat Dr. B RecommendsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As you may know, sugar is highly addictive, it’s found in many of the products we consume, and it is a major cause of chronic disease. But not all sugars are created equal. In today’s episode, Dr. B shares why we should stay far away from artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sorbitol, and choose natural sweeteners like monk fruit (luo han guo) instead. Monk fruit is 200 times sweeter than sugar, contains no calories or carbs, and it tastes good! That’s why Dr. B recommends monk fruit-sweetened products (Evolved Keto Cups, for example) as a tooth-safe snack for your kids. Tune in today to hear more about this natural sweetener, other sources of “healthy” sugars, and a reminder that sugar is something that should be consumed in moderation!   Key Points From This Episode:The ubiquity of sugar in the products we consume [02:05]Why human beings are prone to sugar addiction [02:29]Dangers of consuming too much sugar [03:05]Dr. B explains why monk fruit (luo han guo) is better than artificial sweeteners [05:28]A warning to stay away from aspartame [06:26]Why we should limit our sugar intake as much as possible [06:47]Examples of healthier sources of sugars [07:22]Beneficial characteristics of monk fruit [07:50]Where monk fruit derives its sweetness from [08:57]Dr. B shares some details about the mogroside 5 compound found in monk fruit [11:17]Keto Cups: why these are a perfect monk fruit sweetened snack for your child (or you!) [13:08]Why eating fruit is better than drinking fruit [17:55]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Podcast Episode #47: How Can You Kick the Sugar Habit?Podcast Episode #43: Does Sorbitol Cause Cavities?Evolved Keto CupsThe Big Fat SurpriseEvolved Keto CupsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryProducts I LoveCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If your dentist has recommended that your child undergo a pediatric sedation, it’s completely normal to feel anxious about it (even though only one in a million of these procedures has a negative outcome). In today’s episode, Dr. B. is joined by specialist pediatric dentist, Dr. Staci Whitman, who is going to equip you with information that will make the whole idea a lot less scary. Dr. Staci explains the value of pediatric sedation, and why she prefers general anesthesia over oral or IV sedation. She also explains how she makes the decision about whether or not a child needs to be sedated, and shares examples of important questions that you should ask your child’s dentist prior to the procedure. Cavities are the number one chronic disease in children globally, and Dr. Staci recommends taking your child to a pediatric dentist from as young as 6 months so that you can prevent the need for pediatric sedation later on!   Key Points From This Episode:A mother expresses her concerns about her two year old undergoing sedation to have his cavities treated [0:03:18]An introduction to specialist pediatric dentist Dr. Staci Whitman [0:06:50]Comparing oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia [0:10:12]Why Dr. Staci doesn’t use oral sedation in her office [0:10:52]Dr. Staci explains why she performs general anesthesia with a board certified anaesthesiologist present [0:13:49]Paradoxical reactions that children can have to oral sedation [0:15:49]The number of pediatric sedatives that Dr. Staci performs each month [0:17:35]How Dr. Staci decides whether to do a pediatric sedation or not [0:17:55]The importance of finding a pediatric dentist whom you trust [0:19:48]Examples of questions that you should ask your dentist prior to the sedation [0:21:07]Statistics which highlight how the safety of anesthesia has improved over the years [0:23:35]Symptoms which indicate a dental emergency [0:25:38]The extent of insurance coverage for pediatric sedation [0:27:58]Why Dr. Staci likes to see children from the age of 6 months old [0:28:41]When Dr. Staci will use nitrous oxide instead of sedating a child [0:29:56]Benefits of taking your child to a pediatric dentist rather than a regular dentist [0:32:26]How education can reduce the need for pediatric sedation [0:35:33]Common causes of upper teeth decay in young children [0:37:45]Other areas of your child’s life that can be negatively impacted by tooth decay [0:41:01]Dr. Staci shares a summary of her advice regarding pediatric sedation [0:44:40]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Staci Whitman on LinkedInDr. Staci Whitman on InstagramDoctor Staci WebsiteNoPo Kids DentistryAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Multiple systemic illnesses are linked to dysregulation of the oral microbiome, highlighting the importance of understanding the oral-systemic connection. However, we see dentists and physicians separately! Join us today to learn about the oral-systemic connection and why your physician and your dentist should be communicating. Dr. B explains why he wrote the Physician's CRP Letter, how dentistry and medicine split apart, and why this is such a bad model for overall patient health. We learn about the three mechanisms of how bacteria get into the bloodstream (infection, injury, and inflammation), and the different manifestations of the oral-systemic connection. We also find out what CRP is, why it's important as a marker of inflammation, and what to expect when you download the Physician's CRP Letter. So, to discover how to optimize your health from dentist to physician, press “Play” now. Key Points From This Episode:The oral-systemic connection, and why it's a core principle of functional dentistry [0:00:11]Why Dr. B created the Physician’s CRP Letter, and today’s question [0:02:35]The importance of communication between your physician and your dentist [0:04:15]Why there’s a schism between dentists and physicians [0:05:06]The negative health impacts of separating dentistry and medicine [0:06:53]What the oral-systemic connection is [0:10:25]How gum disease can be the foundation of inflammation through the body [0:12:02]What CRP is used to detect [0:16:12]The manifestations of the oral-systemic connection [0:16:56]How the CRP letter can help you, where to find it, and what the CRP test is [0:20:17]What your dentist needs to fill out in the CRP Letter [0:24:01]How root canals can elevate your CRP, even though Dr. B supports them [0:24:25]Dr. B’s wishes for the future union of oral and general healthcare [0:28:35]The importance of the oral microbiome in the oral-systemic connection, and where you can find out more [0:30:27]When and where to find a functional dentist [0:32:06]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:C-Reactive Protein Testing: Why We Need Collaboration in Medicine & DentistryInterview: Why We Shouldn’t Ignore the Oral MicrobiomeOral Microbiome: What Is It & Why Is It Important with Cass Nelson-DooleyAsk the Dentist Physician's CRP LetterTeeth: The Story Of Beauty, Inequality, And The Struggle For Oral Health In AmericaAn examination of periodontal treatment and per member per month (PMPM) medical costs in an insured populationAsk the Dentist: Collected Articles and Podcast Episodes About Root CanalsAsk the Dentist:Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

With climate change being the issue it is, many people are seeking alternative packaging for health products that reduces their environmental footprint. One of these alternatives is toothpaste in tablet form. Today’s episode is centered around a listener's question of whether she should be using Bite tablets or Wellnesse toothpaste. We dive into the topic with Dr. B's appreciation for both brands, and why he is so grateful for the options that boutique brands are providing us with. We next move on to the pros and cons of tablets, such as the ingredients commonly used, whether or not they are broken down enough by chewing to impact our oral microbiome, and why they are sometimes more practical than toothpaste itself. We next hear about the pros and cons of toothpaste! Dr. B describes the necessary evils of toothpastes, why he prefers hydroxyapatite-based products, and why the premixing in a tube is potentially an advantage. So, to make an informed decision on your tooth-cleaning product, tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s topic, and why Dr. B had to go through his shed [0:00:19]Today’s question: Which is better, Bite tablet or Wellenesse? [0:02:13]The brands behind these two products, and Dr. B’s thoughts on their ethics [0:03:23]Why Dr. B likes the concept of a tablet toothpaste, and the pros and cons [0:05:36]The other ingredients that concern Dr. B, and the benefits of hydroxyapatite [0:10:25]Why Dr. B doesn’t like products that foam too much [0:11:20]Dr. B’s major concern around the Bite tablet: does chewing it break down the ingredients enough to thin the biofilm? [0:12:25]The best aspect of the Bite tablet: the convenience [0:16:30]Testing toothpaste on your skin before using it in your mouth [0:23:53]Comparing toothpaste to a tablet: the benefits of premixing [0:24:59]A summary of Dr. B’s answer, and why he prefers toothpaste [0:26:08]Dr. B’s appreciation for both Bite and Wellnesse as brands [0:29:36]Why Dr. B is not against glycerin in toothpaste [0:31:08]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:What Dr. B RecommendsFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhy I Recommend You Wash Your Hands With Your ToothpasteBite Wellnesse ToothpastesAsk the Dentist: DIY Probiotic ToothpasteAsk the Dentist: DIY Kids’ ToothpasteRiseWell Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAssorted Articles from Ask the Dentist on HydroxyapatiteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Welcome back to another episode of Ask the Dentist! Today's question is from a listener who has white spots on her teeth following braces, and she wants to know what Dr. B recommends to treat them. We dive into the topic with Dr. B's explanation of what these white spots are, and how they are formed. We learn why the current standard practice of orthodontics is outdated, and why parents need to be involved when a kid gets braces. Tune in to hear Dr. B's three main suggestions on how to prevent these white spots (diet, swishing, and mouth tape), and how they work. Next, we move on to the noninvasive treatments, like fluoride- and hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste, the Icon procedure, and tooth whitening. We wrap up the episode with the pros and cons of choosing more invasive treatments, and how visiting a functional dentist from a young age can eliminate the need for braces entirely. For all this and so much more, join us today. Key Points From This Episode:Talking about demineralization following the use of braces [0:00:07]Why spring podcast season is helping spread the word of functional dentistry [0:02:34]Today’s question: what to do about the white spots on my teeth after braces? [0:04:05]How TikTok is helping get information out [0:05:42]Why our current approach to orthodontics is archaic and doesn’t address the root cause [0:06:13]Why demineralization should be considered a cavity [0:14:12]How your diet affects the development of these white spots [0:15:14]Dr. B’s musings on how etching might be the start of the demineralization [0:18:11]Why prevention is better than treatment, and when to use cavity detectors [0:27:17]How mouth tape can prevent demineralization [0:28:46]Why parents need to get involved [0:30:06]Dr. B’s recommendations for treating lesions [0:30:43]What to expect when whitening your teeth [0:33:27]The pros and cons of the Icon procedure [0:34:28]Dr. B’s fluorosis and how he’s managed it [0:39:49]Why porcelain veneers should be the last resort [0:40:51]What Dr. B hopes listeners learned from today’s episode [0:42:01]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Icon procedure youtube videoOrthotropics.comDr. Staci Whitman on the Functional Dentist DirectoryPreviDent 5000Venus White Ultra Whitening Oral CareMI-PasteAsk the Dentist: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best BrandsRiseWell Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Oral piercings are common amongst younger generations and are frequently judged by those who are older. This is not the case with Dr. B, who feels it's your choice. Tune in today to hear why you should be changing dentists if yours is making you feel uncomfortable about your piercings, and what to look for in a dentist who will give you the proper care. Dr. B breaks down the locations of oral piercings and the most common health issues associated with each of them. We also hear some great advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene around piercings, through salt-water washing, CRP testing, tongue scraping, and changing the material your piercing is made from. Join us to learn how to program your body to accommodate your new piercing, and why dentists are concerned about gum recession and broken tooth syndrome. To discover how piercings could be affecting your sense of taste, and so much more, press “Play” now!Key Points From This Episode:Why Dr. B might be a little hoarse: Hyman’s channel [0:00:12]A shout-out to Jennifer Chiang, DDS and her effort to further the functional dentist cause. [0:01:50]Today’s question: What should people with oral piercings be doing to maintain good oral health? [0:04:41]Why Dr. B doesn't like the judgment surrounding oral piercings. [0:06:16]The most common oral piercing locations, and why you should do a CRP test. [0:07:26]Why dentists are concerned about gum recession and cracked tooth syndrome. [0:09:36]How to program your proprioception to accommodate a new piercing. [0:11:27]Talking tongue piercings: how they’re done and the materials Dr. B recommends. [0:12:30]How a lip piercing is different from a tongue piercing, and the impact on the oral microbiome. [0:14:54]What to look for in an infected piercing, and Dr. B’s cleaning suggestions. [0:17:22]A summary of Dr. B’s advice. [0:20:12]What you should be looking for in a dentist who will look after your piercings. [0:20:34]Why Dr. B recommends scraping your tongue if it's pierced. [0:21:57]How certain piercings could affect your sense of taste. [0:23:29]Dr. B’s experience with oral piercings. [0:25:15]Why you shouldn't pierce the body if you are immune-suppressed. [0:26:11]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Hyman+Dr. Jennifer Chiang's Blog on Functional DentistryDr. Jennifer Chiang, DDS on Ask the DentistAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on TikTok @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Like many people, Dr. B is not a fan of the time change. However, as always, he has some great tips on how to cope with the change, resulting in improved sleep and better time management. Join us as we move from this helpful topic, to today’s question about tonsil stones, bad breath, grinding, and how they are all linked! We first learn what tonsil stones are, and how Dr. B recommends managing them without surgery. We hear how the oral microbiome is involved in their formation, and what the products and foods are that you should avoid. We next learn what to expect from a dentist when visiting one for tonsil stones, and why bad breath is the least important concern around them. The benefits of visiting a functional dentist are made clear as Dr. B breaks down how mouth breathing causes dryness, which causes tonsil stones, which then leads to sleep paroxysm, and so much more! You don't want to miss out on this fascinating episode.Key Points From This Episode:How Dr. B decided on the format for Ask the Dentist podcasts [0:00:19]A tip on how to avoid sleep issues when the time change happens [0:01:01] Today’s questions: “What can I do about tonsil stones, and are clenching and grinding both symptoms of sleep apnea?” [0:02:56]What tonsil stones are, how they are formed and what your tonsils can tell you [0:04:40]Why Dr. B recommends holding off on tonsil surgery [0:06:47]What to look for if you think you have a tonsil stone [0:08:33]The microbiome of the tonsils, and how it’s linked to tonsil stones [0:10:39]What you can do to avoid or treat tonsil stones [0:12:41]When to go see a dentist, and what to expect [0:14:37]How mouth breathing can cause tonsil stones [0:15:51]How a dentist can identify mouth breathing [0:18:48]The food, drinks, and products to avoid when dealing with tonsil stones, and why drinking lots of fluid is important [0:19:25]What to do about bad breath and why it’s not the biggest issue with tonsil stones [0:20:33]Dr. B's thoughts on paroxysm, and how to improve the symptoms [0:21:03]A wrap-up of the episode, and why functional dentistry can help answer a complex question like today’s one [0:23:05]Where to find out more about functional dentists and dentistry overall [0:25:09]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Tonsil Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and How to RemoveBest Sleep Apps + Wearable Sleep TrackersAsk the Dentist Podcast Episode #15: Should My 14-Year-Old Use Sleep Tape?Mouth Tape: End Mouth Breathing for Better Sleep and a Healthier MouthAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

By now all Ask the Dentist podcast listeners should be well aware of and hopefully using, Dr. B's functional dentist directory. However, what can you do when you can't find a functional dentist near you? Today's episode starts with Dr. B providing a different definition of what functional dentistry is, followed by a discussion around why the question featured is such a good one. Dr. B explains why no dentist is not better than a regular dentist, and how biological and integrative dentists are part of the functional dentist family. We also hear some great questions on how you can interview a dentist near you to determine if they are a functional dentist without knowing it, and where you can contact Dr. B if you are totally at a loss! Tune in for a reminder as to why functional dentistry is so important in the prevention of diseases and disorders later on in life, and how COVID has launched the field of teledentistry. For all this, and so much more, join us today. Key Points From This Episode:Why Dr. B is so pleased with Hayleigh’s question [0:00:17]A different definition of what functional dentistry is [0:01:20]Hailey's question: Where to turn when you can't find a functional dentist [0:03:49]Why a great question is one that reveals a problem [0:04:10]Why choosing between a functional and a regular dentist is not mutually exclusive [0:05:04]How to find a functional dentist on your own: the questions to include when you interview a dentist [0:06:44]Why some dentists don’t realize that they are functional dentists [0:09:44]How dentistry is involved in preventing sleep apnea and the resulting comorbidities [0:11:08]What to do if a dentist labels themselves as a biological or an integrative dentist [0:11:56]Where you can reach out to Dr. B so he can get a referral for you [0:13:51]How Hailey's question led Dr. B to include teledentistry (not yet released) in his functional dentist directory [0:14:59]How COVID has improved teledentistry [0:16:53]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Functional Dentistry vs Conventional DentistryFunctional Dentistry: Everything You Need to KnowAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you've ever investigated the chemical makeup of your retainer cleaner, you would have been horrified to discover toxic chemicals such as persulfate. Understandably, today's question is from a concerned listener who wants to know if Dr. B has any advice on how to avoid these chemicals. Join us today as we hear about the retainer and denture cleaning products currently on the market, and why Dr. B is so concerned about persulfate. We dive into the role of a functional dentist in not only identifying the side effects from retainer cleaners coming into contact with your mouth but also their role in preventing dental issues later in life. Discover some great tips from Dr. B on retainer cleaning habits, and his very own DIY retainer cleaning recipe containing all-natural and easily accessible ingredients! Lastly, we end off with Dr. B advising a visit to your grandparents to ensure they aren't at risk of ingesting some poorly labeled chemicals. Press "Play" now!Key Points From This Episode:The results Dr. B saw when he Googled “functional dentistry” [0:00:11]Why a tongue-tie specialist should be present at your child’s birth [0:02:08]A dentist’s role in screening for sleep disorders, and the ADA’s updated policies [0:03:49]Keeping your retainers clean without poisoning yourself [0:04:53]Today’s question: What is Dr. B’s retainer cleaning ritual, and what he would recommend [0:06:02]Using denture cleansers for cleaning retainers, and why Dr. B stopped selling them [0:06:21]What the FDA did when persulfate was identified as being an irritant [0:10:45]How persulfate works to clean retainers, and how it’s taken up by your retainer [0:12:29]Dr. B’s thoughts on why people mistake denture cleaners for other products [0:14:55]What to look for to detect retainer or denture cleanser poisoning [0:16:01]Why you need to clean your retainer [0:19:29]The alternative denture and retainer cleaners that Dr. B recommends, and his routine [0:21:32]Another instance where similar packaging resulted in healthcare problems [0:27:40]Why you want a natural biofilm disruptor in your cleanser [0:28:42]The DIY approach and why Dr. B favors it [0:29:43]A wrap-up of today’s episode, and why you should check on your grandparents’ denture cleansing habits [0:31:47]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:How to Clean Retainers [No Harsh Chemicals Required]ADA-Approved Denture Cleanser: Why do they contain this disturbing ingredient?DIY Retainer Cleaner (for Hawley, Metal, & Invisalign)Assorted Articles from Ask the Dentist on DIY ProductsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

In the USA, children are often encouraged to brush their teeth multiple times a day, however, as they grow older this often tapers to just mornings and evenings. Today’s question is from a listener in Colombia, where it is not uncommon for people to brush multiple times a day as adults. After listening to Dr. B's podcasts on how brushing your teeth can strip away the enamel, Steven sent in his question asking if it is unhealthy to brush after lunch. Tune in to find out why Dr. B encourages this, but only under certain circumstances and only if you have good brushing habits! Join us to get some tips on what these good brushing habits look like, and when to time your brushing for maximum tooth health. Dr. B also shakes up the episode introduction by including Dr. Alvin Danenbeg’s definition of functional dentistry. We close off with a reminder of why functional dentists are the future, and where you can find out more. Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s question and how Dr. B is changing the introduction to each episode [0:00:12]Dr. Al Danenberg’s definition of what functional dentistry is [0:01:22]What inspired Steven to ask today’s question: healthcare in Colombia [0:03:46]Why Dr. B would reword the question and the benefits of brushing multiple times a day [0:07:30]The science behind why Dr. B is concerned about brushing right after lunch [0:08:51]Technique tips: how to brush your teeth properly [0:14:17]Why Dr. B isn’t against brushing multiple times a day [0:15:10]A call to functional dentists listening to the podcast to send in their definitions of what functional dentistry is, and to join Dr. B’s network [0:15:29]How dentistry has shifted since Dr. B’s time at dental school, and where the field is going now [0:16:46]Where you can find out more about functional dentistry [0:17:52]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Alvin Danenberg on Ask the DentistSign Up for Dr. Alvin Danenberg's Weekly NewsletterCrazy-Good Living!: Healthy Gums, Healthy Gut, Healthy LifeDr. B's Interview with Dr. Alvin DanenbergMark SissonAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

One of the most widely known recommendations for women while pregnant is to avoid eating fish due to the mercury content. But what about amalgam fillings? Today's question is posed by Emily, a concerned mother who wants to know if her breast milk is safe for her baby to drink because of the metal fillings she has. Join us to find out why Dr. B has both a short and a long answer to today's question, and why he believes that it is safe for Emily to be breastfeeding. We hear all about the forms of mercury that are present in our environment, and which are the most dangerous to our health. Dr. B explains why he doesn't use metal fillings anymore, and why getting them removed during pregnancy or breastfeeding is an absolute no-no. We also hear a list of things that contain mercury that we can absorb and the test that Dr. B recommends to quantify your mercury levels. For all this, and so much more, tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:How wildfires made Dr. B think about the functional approach to dentistry [0:01:48]A different definition of functional dentistry from a fellow functional dentist [0:02:40]The short answer as to why Emily shouldn’t worry [0:07:25]Why Dr. B stopped using metal fillings [0:14:16]Mercury in human milk and why fillings won’t affect the baby [0:15:29]Why you shouldn't get an amalgam filling removed during pregnancy and the procedures that protect you if one is essential [0:23:56]A summary of today’s episode [0:32:28]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Eat, Sleep, Breathe Oral Health: Why your mouth mattersA Link to an Article on Dr. B's Favorite FillingLinks to Studies on Mercury in Breast MilkMercury and Lead During Breast-feeding1990 German Study Showing No Correlation Between Number of Fillings/Surface Area and Fetal Mercury Levels 2017 Paper on The Replacement of Amalgam Fillings Increasing the Transfer of Mercury to Baby  SMART Member Listings on the IAOMTMercury Tri-Test and Blood Metals PanelMercury Fillings Dangers, Who Is At Risk & Removal ChecklistAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Following the removal of braces, many orthodontists place a fixed retainer to ensure there is no relapse movement of your teeth. However, as Dr. B explains today, teeth are a dynamic tissue, and permanently fixing them in place can cause a multitude of oral health issues such as gum recession, gum disease, and even bone loss. Join us as Dr. B addresses Sarah and Staci’s questions about whether fixed retainers are a good idea in children and adults. The short answer is no (although there are exceptions even to this!). Tune in to learn how fixed retainers cause damage, the studies that support this, and where you can go to have yours removed. Dr. B gives some great suggestions on safer alternatives, along with tips and tricks to ensure that your kid is diligent in using these. We also hear how the field of orthodontics is changing, and why referring children before the age of five to get maxillary expansion can save them from needing braces and retainers later on in life. Press “Play” now to find out more!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s topic: fixed lower retainers and how long you should be wearing yours [0:00:12]What a fixed retainer is, where they are typically placed on the lower jaw, and why [0:02:58]Why it’s urgent to see a dentist if your fixed retainer breaks [0:04:26]Why a fixed retainer is used in the first place: a real estate analogy [0:05:17]What Dr. B has noticed through experience with patients with fixed retainers: gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss [0:07:48]Dr. B’s take on fixed retainers and the studies supporting his observations [0:12:01]Why the fixed nature of these retainers is the problem [0:15:01]Why Dr. B is not worried about the metal content of a fixed retainer [0:15:59]What you should do if you already have a fixed retainer in place, and tips on how to avoid one being placed in your kids [0:16:48]How to prevent the need for retainers: maxillary expansion in children [0:21:18]Why there is no such thing as a permanent fix in dentistry [0:23:48]Where to direct any other questions for Dr. B about orthodontics [0:26:27]The exceptions where a fixed retainer is better for the patient than a removable one [0:27:51]What to do if you get pushback from your orthodontist: find a functional dentist [0:29:03]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Long-Term Periodontal Status of Patients With Mandibular Lingual Fixed RetentionSuper Human: The Bulletproof Plan to Age Backward and Maybe Even Live ForeverSelected Articles from Ask the Dentist on Metal ToxicitySelected Articles from Ask the Dentist on Stainless SteelSelected Articles from Ask the Dentist About How Ortho Is ChangingAsk the DentistFollow DrCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Almost everyone wants that shiny, white smile… But at what cost? Many kinds of toothpaste sold throughout the USA have Relative Dentin Abrasion values well over the hardness of what our teeth are made of, resulting in tooth sensitivity and increased wear and tear. Today Dr. B dives into the makeup of common toothpaste brands, and how each of these is likely to affect your oral health. From the surprising RDA values of toothpastes marketed towards people with sensitive teeth to the habits and bad practices that further abrade our teeth, this episode has it all! Tune in to learn how to check whether your toothpaste is the right one for you, and the habits you need to change to help your teeth. Dr. B shares some of his own experiences with sensitive teeth and the products that he uses and recommends for other sufferers. You don’t want to miss this essential episode!Key Points From This Episode:The question that anyone using a toothbrush should be asking [0:00:10]How to structure your questions when sending them to Dr. B [0:01:03]Today’s question: “Is Boca considered an abrasive toothpaste?” [0:03:16]Understanding abrasion indexes and how hard teeth are [0:03:52]Why Dr. B recommends brushing with baking soda even though it’s as hard as dentin [0:05:58]A list of the RDA values in common toothpastes [0:07:03]The toothpastes that Dr. B recommends, and their benefits and disadvantages [0:14:07]Why Dr. B doesn’t advise using a highly abrasive toothpaste for sensitive teeth [0:15:45]What to look for, and how to choose your toothpaste based on RDA [0:18:08]The other factors that affect abrasion when brushing [0:20:10]An anecdote from Dr. B about managing his sensitive teeth [0:23:37]Tips from Dr. B on how to keep your teeth healthy and avoid tooth sensitivity [0:24:44]What to expect from Dr. B’s next DIY recipe [0:29:14]A summary of today’s episode [0:30:19]The product Dr. B recommends to stabilize your oral pH in place of brushing [0:31:04]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Relative dentin abrasion values for toothpaste listBoka ToothpasteRiseWell ToothpasteMicrobiome Coconut Oil Pulling ChewsRemineralizing Coconut Oil Pulling ChewsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

For thousands of years, Ayurvedic medicine used oil pulls to address oral and dental health. With the advent of Western medicine, we have shifted to using toothbrushes and toothpaste, which often contain harmful chemicals, and sterilize the oral microbiome. Today, Dr. B talks to us about why this is so bad for our oral microbiome and our teeth in general, and how you can make your own healthy and remineralizing oil pull chews! We dive into the science behind oil pulls, how they help to maintain a healthy oral microbiome, and why they can even promote weight loss. We find out the best time of day to chew on an oil pull, and how Dr. B's recipe will soon change. Tune in for another installment of Ask the Dentist, educating people about functional dentistry one show at a time. Key Points From This Episode:How Dr. B hopes Omicron will change the pandemic to an endemic [0:00:39]Home remedies for oil pulling and why oil pulling may apply to you [0:01:18]Why the Ask the Dentist DIY recipes are so great for your health [0:02:17]Today’s question: “What potency should the L-arginine capsules be?” [0:04:28]Dr. B’s answer and a breakdown of how he will be updating his oil pull recipe [0:04:51]The history of oil pulling [0:06:27]How the biofilm works, and why we shouldn’t remove it, but should rather reinstate it [0:08:39]How oil pulling works [0:10:50]The application of oil pulling in today’s world [0:12:08]Where the concept of the coconut oil pull chew came from, and how to use it [0:15:37]Other benefits to oil pulling: satiation [0:19:43]Why Dr. B doesn’t dismiss ancient medicine [0:20:19]What’s to come in future recipes: including hydroxyapatite [0:21:19]A summary of the DIY recipes on Dr. B’s website [0:22:20]A wrap up of today’s episode and what a functional dentist is [0:23:39]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Microbiome Coconut Oil Pulling ChewsRemineralizing Coconut Oil Pulling ChewsOil Pulling: Benefits, Risks & How to Oil PullDIY Probiotic ToothpasteDIY Mouthwash – An Oral Microbiome-Friendly Turmeric RecipeDIY Turmeric Teeth Whitening PasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Welcome to the first episode of the Ask the Dentist podcast for 2022! Dr. B is excited to share with you today the company that he has partnered with to test the oral microbiome (Bristle), and why he feels that this test is so important to our health. We move on to the weekly listener's question, asking how you can kick the sugar habit. Dr. B has personal experience with this and talks us through his tips, tricks, and substitutes to live a healthier, sugar-free life. We learn why there are two prime concerns when giving up sugar (desensitizing our tongues and managing our behavior), and why it's so important not to go cold turkey. Find out what it means to be "fat-adapted", the health benefits of the paleo diet, and how your sleeping patterns are affecting your sugar cravings. Join us today to kick off your 2022 by kicking your sugar habit!Key Points From This Episode:Welcome to the first podcast of 2022, the year of the oral microbiome [0:00:12]The new test available to check on the status of your oral microbiome [0:00:42]Dr. B’s excitement for the ruling on fluoride in water released on the 18th of January [0:02:18]How today’s topic is similar to a New Year’s Resolution [0:04:00]Today’s question: What does Dr. B feel about artificial sweeteners? [0:05:15]Why our bodies are geared to seek out sweet food, and how to manage your behavior [0:05:48]The two prime concerns with giving up sugar: desensitizing our tongue, and removing the desire [0:07:35]How dentists are involved in motivating their patient’s behavior changes [0:09:53]The four aspects to kicking your sugar habit: becoming fat-adapted, working on your sleep, a paleo diet, and finding a substitute for the after-meal snack [0:10:55]How Dr. B developed his sugar habit [0:12:25]Where Dr. B first ran into the term “fat adapted”, what it means, and how it addresses the root cause of a sugar addiction [0:14:51]Fixing your sleeping pattern: how sleep drives sugar cravings and prevents you from being fat-adapted [0:17:30]How diet has helped Dr. B’s oral microbiome [0:28:16]Why Dr. B has chosen to work with Bristle [0:36:17]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Oral Microbiome TopicsGerman food Dr. B eats around christmas in new yorkAsk the Dentist: Facts on FluorideSubscribe to Mondays with Mark: The weekly Ask the Dentist NewsletterAsk the Dentist Podcast Episode #40: Are Honey and Maple OK for My Teeth?The Case Against SugarMark’s Daily AppleThe 8-Hour Sleep ParadoxThe Whole30 DietThe chocolate alternatives Dr. B recommendsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. MCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

The COVID-19 pandemic was particularly hard on small businesses, including private dental practices. Many of these practices have turned to Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) to keep them afloat. Join us today as we dive into the politics of dentistry and DSOs with Dr. B! We hear the pros and cons of being part of a DSO as a dental practitioner, and how the type of practice you choose can affect your outcomes as a patient. Find out why Dr. B was fired from his very first job, and the experiences he has had that have made him wary of DSOs. Get some practical advice on how to ensure you are getting the best treatment available, regardless of whether you’re at a DSO or not, and why it’s so beneficial to be treated by a functional dentist. Dr. B also shares some great links on how the workforce is changing as millennials enter it. For all this, and more on the future of dentistry and DSOs, press play now!Key Points From This Episode:The topic that Dr. B feels that we have not discussed enough [0:00:17]Dental Support Organizations (DSO): why they have sprung up after the COVID-19 pandemic, and why Dr. B chose not to join one [0:01:19]The benefits of a DSO: reducing the overhead of a dental practice [0:02:33]What a DSO is, and the many different roles running a dental practice requires [0:04:19]Why Dr. B gets nervous when there’s an association of support organizations [0:06:16]The reason for today’s episode: educating patients about what could happen when you choose a dentist involved with a DSO [0:07:31]Dr. B’s first experience with a DSO [0:08:29]The advantages of DSOs: dentists can focus on patients, and they get access to the latest technology [0:15:12]Why young dentists with student debts are drawn to DSOs [0:17:14]The situations that drive dentists to join a DSO [0:18:03]The disadvantages of DSOs: a lack of independence, the focus turns to profit and not patients, and the Dentist-patient relationship suffers [0:18:58]Who the largest DSOs in the USA are [0:22:24]Dr. B’s other experience of DSOs as an expert witness: unnecessary treatments and no patient education [0:23:09]What if you were to see a functional dentist? [0:28:17]The future of DSOs [0:33:00]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Association of Dental Support OrganizationsThe Cons and Pros of DSOs by Dr. Gordon J. ChristensenHeartland DentalAspen DentalPacific Dental ServicesGreat ExpressionsAffordable Dentures & ImplantsWestern Dental & Orthodontics Ask the Dentist: Assorted Articles About Margarita PlansAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Hearing that your child has enamel hypoplasia can be incredibly distressing, for both the parent and the dentist! Today Dr. B talks to us about what enamel hypoplasia means, why dentists start sweating when they see it, and why it isn’t your fault as a parent. We hear how to identify enamel hypoplasia, and the tools you will need to keep an eye on it, as well as the potential outcomes of leaving it untreated. Dr. B discusses the various causes of enamel hypoplasia commonly listed in textbooks, and the causes that he and Dr. Staci Whitman have observed that are not yet included in mainstream dental education. We hear advice on how you can best avoid it, from adjusting your peri-natal diet to maintaining a stress-free pregnancy and avoiding fluoride. Find out how enamel hypoplasia should be treated, and the questions to ask your dentist to be sure they are doing the right thing. We look forward to having you join us!Key Points From This Episode:The topic that strikes fear into the heart of dentists [0:00:10]Why it’s important for a patient to understand why dentists fear hypoplasia [0:01:35]Today’s question: Does Dr. B have any suggestions to improve or reverse enamel hypoplasia? [0:02:43]Some background on enamel hyperplasia and what it is [0:03:06]What the signs are of enamel hypoplasia [0:04:40]Why it can sometimes be difficult to detect enamel hypoplasia: when it occurs below the gumline [0:06:40]The negative outcomes of having enamel hypoplasia [0:07:52]The causes of enamel hypoplasia: what the textbooks say [0:08:09]The causes of enamel hypoplasia that Dr. B and Dr. Staci have observed, that aren’t yet in the textbooks [0:13:16]Dr. B’s thoughts on fluoride and its impact on tooth development [0:15:04]The difference between fluorosis and hypoplasia [0:15:53]Another explanation for enamel hypoplasia: rickets and a vitamin D deficiency [0:16:40]Why Dr. B always asks parents if the child had a high fever prior to the discovery of hypoplasia [0:17:32]The take-home message from today’s episode: don’t feel bad, it’s not your fault, and it can be treated [0:18:14]How to check on your kid’s teeth [0:19:25]Dr. B’s advice for women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant [0:19:52]Why you can't usually reverse enamel hypoplasia and tips on how to prevent it worsening [0:20:17]The oral-systemic connection: how enamel hypoplasia is a prime example of this [0:22:33]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Staci Whitman on the Functional Dentist DirectoryAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As kids, many of us grew up kissing our parents on the mouth. Today’s question centers around this, with a listener querying Dr. B’s advice not to kiss kids on the mouth! Tune in to find out why Dr. B advises against this, even though our ancestors have been doing it for centuries. We find out why this behavior was mostly okay in our past, but why it is a potentially dangerous habit in today's society. We break down how kids acquire their oral microbiome (vaginal birth and breastfeeding), and the alternative routes available for those who undergo C-section and/or can't be breastfed. Hear why it's so important for your kids to travel with their toothbrushes and the conditions that can be transferred when kissing. We also learn of the exciting mRNA test that will be coming out in early 2022, and what Dr. B has planned for us! Don't miss out on this important information. Key Points From This Episode:How today’s question made Dr. B realize that he has not explained enough in this topic [0:00:30]Today’s question: Can you share good bugs with your kids when kissing them? [0:01:47]The difference between our oral microbiome and that of our ancestors [0:03:16]How vaginal birth establishes the oral microbiome during birth [0:04:45]Dr. B’s suggestion to populate the oral microbiome if the child is born via C-section, and/or can’t be breastfed: diet, and preventing mouth breathing [0:05:27]The importance of physical affection with kids [0:06:44]Why you need to be careful when teaching your child who to kiss on the lips [0:07:11]When you shouldn’t kiss your kids on the mouth [0:08:01] Why your kid should always travel with their own toothbrush [0:08:14]Looking at our ancestors’ lifestyle compared to our own [0:09:04]Hear about the mRNA test coming out early in 2022! [0:10:01]Wrapping up with the impact of the oral microbiome on our overall health and why Dr. B appreciates today’s question [0:11:09]The exciting topics and business adventures you can expect to hear about in 2022 [0:12:18]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist: Collected Articles and Podcasts on the Oral MicrobiomeAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

What do art history and functional dentistry have in common? They both require primary sources when researching a contentious question! Today's question focuses on Sorbitol and whether or not it can cause tooth decay. Dr. B answers this question but also takes us through his methodology when investigating a chemical, so that you can apply critical thinking to the chemicals that affect you daily. From simply googling the question to a deep dive into the literature available using the NIH's PubChem database, follow along step-by-step as the impact of Sorbitol on your teeth is untangled. We discover the most likely cause of the conflicting information available on the internet and how you can identify unreliable sources. We learn what Sorbitol is on a chemical level, how it's metabolized by humans and the bugs in our microbiome, and how it's made. We also touch on Xylitol and why Dr. B only likes some forms of it, and discover the other chemicals that are in Dr. B's investigative crosshairs for 2022. Tune in to learn all of this and more in today's educational episode!Key Points From This Episode:Using functional dentistry and logic to answer health questions [0:0:31]Dr. B’s qualifications and why he thinks the way he does about chemicals [0:01:31]Today’s question: does Sorbitol contribute to tooth decay? [0:02:56]The web search results that Dr. B sees when he Googles “does Sorbitol cause tooth decay” [0:03:11]How an acid attack can cause tooth decay, and Sorbitol biochemistry after breakdown by the oral microbiome [0:05:35]Why Wikipedia can be a good source [0:06:31]What Sorbitol is made from, the chemical structure of it, and its metabolites [0:07:22]Failure to ferment Sorbitol: why Sorbitol is not digested by oral or gut microbes [0:09:36]How the Glycemic Index works [0:10:31]The forms of Sorbitol in use, and where to check this information [0:11:48] Why Dr. B likes Xylitol, another sugar alternative [0:15:14]Dr. B’s tips on what makes a good study [0:15:29]PubChem: what Dr. B’s favorite website says about Sorbitol [0:16:39]How to read articles that are behind paywalls: contact your dentist or doctor [0:19:52]Debunking false claims in the media: Sorbitol does not fight decay, while Xylitol does [0:20:17]How studying art history taught Dr. B to value primary sources [0:21:46]Concluding thoughts on Sorbitol, and other chemicals Dr. B is investigating [0:22:34]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Complete Guide to SugarSorbitol on WikipediaInternational Sugar Organization'RHR: A Beginner’s Guide to Scientific Research'National Institutes of HealthPubChemSorbitol Metabolism/Metabolites on PubChem'D-Sorbitol on the Hazardous Substances Data Bank'Ask the DentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

With the rise of social media, there has also been a rise in so-called clinical advice and home health hacks, many of which are harmful. Today, Dr. B addresses the issue of tooth shaving, and why it's a dangerous trend. We hear why the serrations (mamelons) at the edge of your teeth are actually a good thing, and what you can do instead of tooth shaving if you are unhappy with your smile. We dive into the dangers of tooth shaving and home remedies for dental bleaching, and why only horses should have their teeth shaved! Dr. B also gives some great tips on how to tell if the influencer you are listening to is giving good medical advice (hint: there won’t be any shocks!). As this is the last episode of Ask the Dentist for 2021, Dr. B also talks us through some of the exciting things coming our way in 2022. We end this episode (and the year) with Dr. B’s gratitude to all his listeners, and his well-wishes for a family-filled festive season: until next year!Key Points From This Episode:Welcome to the last podcast for 2021, and why Dr. B is so grateful for his listeners [0:00:15]Tooth shaving on TikTok: be wary of the clinical advice you get on social media [0:01:40]What tooth mamelons are and why they’re a good thing [0:03:21]Why an enameloplasty is better for you than shaving your teeth [0:04:07]Why horses can (and should) have their teeth shaved, but humans should not [0:04:49]The other topic to avoid on social media: tooth whitening [0:06:00]How to tell who to trust on social media [0:06:47]Why Dr. B is thankful to have a voice through this podcast [0:07:57]What’s coming in 2022: Dr. B’s business adventure, the ruling on the fluoridation of municipal water case, new techniques, and advice for preventative dental care [0:08:24]A wrap-up of today’s episode, and Dr. B’s wishes for all his listeners over the festive season [0:10:46]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Fluoride Action NetworkAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Did you know that a woodpecker’s tongue wraps all the way around its brain? In today’s episode, we’re talking all things tongues as Dr. B answers a listener’s question about tongue thrust! From the evolutionary reason for why a woodpecker’s tongue is like it is, to how a tongue thrust affects your face, breathing, talking, and so much more, this episode has it all! We dissect how the tongue functions normally and what leads to an abnormal position such as a tongue thrust. We are reminded of the importance of functional dentistry as Dr. B explains why getting braces to fix the results of a tongue thrust doesn’t fix the underlying issue, and how the swallow reflex works. Find out who you should turn to instead of your local dentist when given an absolute answer, how to check if you have a tongue thrust, and what you can do to fix it! We look forward to having you join us.Key Points From This Episode:Today’s question: what would Dr. B recommend for a tongue thrust? [0:01:45]Why our tongues are amazing and their role in oral and overall health. [0:02:27]Dr. B’s perception of the swallow reflex and the physics underlying it. [0:05:28]What happens in the mouth when the tongue is thrusting forwards. [0:06:49]Why a dentist’s absolute answer to being unable to fix a tongue thrust should be challenged. [0:07:28]How a tongue thrust can affect your health, [0:07:57]The root cause of a tongue thrust and how functional dentistry is important in addressing it. [0:09:03]Why Dr. B recommends that a myofunctional expert should be present at birth. [0:11:00] How to tell if you have a tongue thrust. [0:11:55]How a tongue thrust can be treated: behavioral retraining. [0:13:40]The role of myofunctional therapy in retraining your facial muscles. [0:15:28]Where to find a myofunctional therapist that Dr. B recommends. [0:16:56] Why the functional approach is the best. [0:17:41] Where to find a functional dentist. [0:18:47] How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist: Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia): Diagnosis, Symptoms, Surgery, and MoreAn Article About a Woodpecker’s TongueAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

For thousands of years, humans lived relatively sugar-free, with refined sugars not yet produced. However, in today's society, much of what we consume has been processed and sweetened. In this episode, Dr. B addresses the question of whether honey and maple syrup are ok to eat, and how they impact your teeth. The short answer is "no", however, there are nuances to everything in the body, and Dr. B gives some great tips on how to consume small quantities of sugar, safely. We hear why the myriad of "health benefits" to honey so widely publicized on the internet are not all they appear to be, and how you can wean yourself off sugar. We discuss how our ancestors lived, and why eating honey was probably not as bad for them as it is for us! From intermittent fasting to eating sweet things in one go, to Dr. B's very own microbiome-friendly omelet, don’t miss out on this sweet episode!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to the root of all evil in dentistry: processed sugars [0:00:09]Today's question: Are honey and maple syrup considered sugar, and do they affect our oral microbiome the same way as refined sugars? [0:02:27]How honey is produced and processed, and why it can be good for you [0:04:00]Why sugar is bad for your teeth and how honey is slightly different from pure refined sugar [0:06:03]Why we don’t want to disinfect the mouth: causing dysbiosis [0:07:24]What dextran is and how honey can break it down [0:08:11]The difference between maple syrup and honey and how maple syrup affects your mouth [0:09:01]Dr. B’s advice for eating a healthy breakfast: the best diet for your teeth [0:11:00]How much sugar you can eat a day, and how often [0:13:07]Why our ancestors probably didn’t snack and what you can eat for breakfast [0:14:32] How the oral microbiome is regulated and how sugar disrupts this [0:15:46]Bad news for today’s questioner, Chrissy [0:16:56]How giving up sugar changed Dr. B’s tastes and health [0:17:11]The systemic issues with ingesting sugar [0:18:11]Conclusion: there are no shortcuts [0:19:27]Some tips on weaning yourself off sugar [0:20:19]Why you should never give infants honey [0:21:02] How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. B's Microbiome OmeletAsk the Dentist: Collected Articles about SugarAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Flavoring water with lemon juice has become the new rage, with people doing it for several reasons; from health benefits to making drinking water more palatable. However, lemon juice is acidic, and as we know from previous episodes with Dr. B, acid attacks in the mouth are bad for enamel! Tune in today to find out how you can safely enjoy your lemon-flavored water and other acidic drinks, where you can find a pH stick to find out exactly what it is that you are drinking, and why prevention is better than cure. We dive into the history and culture of people sucking on citrus fruits, and how this impacts your teeth. We also hear how other health conditions affect your enamel and are reminded how acid attacks work. Finally, Dr. B talks us through his feelings towards the coming winter. Press play now to find out more!Key Points From This Episode:What the Fall season means to Dr. B [0:00:10]An overview of today’s topic: “Is it okay to drink lemon water all day long?” [0:04:00] Why we drink lemon juice in the morning [0:05:06] How drinking lemon juice in the morning compared to drinking lemon water throughout the day affects your teeth differently [0:06:09]Why sucking on citrus will cause damage to your teeth [0:07:43]The cultural history of sucking on citrus fruits [0:08:30]Dr. B’s wife’s morning routine and how she drinks her lemon water safely [0:09:26]Drinking lemon juice throughout the day: flavored water versus fresh lemon juice [0:10:46]How to tell the pH of your drink and interpret these results [0:11:36]The process of acid attacks within the mouth and how they overlap with drinking an acidic beverage [0:12:19]Why prevention is the best thing to do for dental care [0:13:25]Know what you’re drinking: don’t assume that water is neutral [0:14:20]How to give your teeth the chance to re-mineralize [0:15:22]Situations that will dissolve enamel in months [0:16:11] How to snack safely throughout the day, and tips on getting kids to drink lemon water [0:19:16]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The New Fat Flush PlanAsk the Dentist: Collected Articles on Acid AttacksAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Many people shudder when they hear the term "root canal", so, unsurprisingly, there is an even greater fear around baby root canals. In today's episode, Dr. B addresses this fear by answering a question about the risks involved in baby root canals, and how they work. From his position of expertise, Dr. B talks us through why a root canal is a great option, and how a baby root canal is not all that different. He defines the difference between a pulpotomy and a pulpectomy in kids, and how each of these can and should be done. We find out why Dr. B stopped using formocresol, and what he and his functional dentist colleague, Dr. Staci Whitman, use instead. We learn about the anatomical differences between baby and adult teeth, and why it's so crucial to treat damaged baby teeth rather than to simply extract them. To find out more about the root cause of a root canal, tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s topic: talking about root canals on baby teeth [0:00:12]The question itself: ‘Are baby root canals the same as adult root canals in terms of any risks that they could run?’ [0:01:49]Comparing the baby root canal to the adult root canal [0:02:37]Why Dr. B stopped using formocresol in baby pulpotomies [0:03:25]The difference between an adult and a baby tooth root canal [0:04:17]How pulpectomies have changed over time: using an electrosurge and formocresol [0:07:19] Why formocresol can be harmful [0:09:11]What good dentists are now using instead of formocresol [0:09:56]Why Dr. B doesn’t believe the rumors about root canals being bad for you [0:10:26] Alternatives to a root canal in a kid and why these are not generally advised [0:11:06]When to find a new dentist [0:13:13]Other alternatives to formocresol [0:13:56]The wrap-up of the episode and why it’s important to ask questions [0:14:48]Why it’s best to see a functional dentist, and where you can find one [0:15:16] How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Root Cause Movie ReviewDo We Still Need Formocresol in Pediatric Dentistry?Clinical and Radiographic Success of Low-Level Laser Therapy Compared with Formocresol Pulpotomy Treatment in Primary MolarsAsk The Dentist Blog: New Study: Low-Level Laser Therapy Can Be as Effective as Formocresol In Saving Primary MolarsAsk The Dentist Blog: Root Cause Movie Review: Are Root Canals Killing Us?Dr. Staci Whitman's WebsiteDr. Staci Whitman on InstagramAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Welcome back to Ask The Dentist, your dose of dental advice in a bite-sized podcast! Today Dr. B covers all things porcelain veneers: from what they are, to how they work, to whether or not they are necessary, and so much more! Tune in to hear Dr. B’s favorite story about giving a patient veneers, and how they changed this person’s life. We find out why it’s so important to make sure that you are getting veneers for the right reasons, and what the long-term consequences are. We discover the health benefits to veneers, and the costs involved in getting them. Dr. B also gives out some great advice on how to ensure that your dentist is the best person to give you veneers, and how to select the veneers that are right for you. For the dentists out there, Dr. B specifically addresses how to select veneers that are the best looking for each patient, as well as how to manage a patient’s expectations. Don’t miss out on this engaging episode!Key Points From This Episode:Welcome to the new listeners: what Ask The Dentist is all about, and where you can find more information [0:00:17]What a functional dentist is [0:01:08]Today's question: What does Dr. B feel about porcelain veneers, are they safe, and do they affect your health? [0:02:52]Dr. B's favorite case study of when porcelain veneers positively impacted a patient’s life [0:04:27]Why cosmetic dentistry is a miracle of modern dentistry [0:11:59]Dr. B’s opinion on the health impact of veneers: they are non-toxic and safe if done properly [0:13:56]The downsides of veneers: they are expensive and are a lifelong commitment [0:14:38]How a veneer works and the process behind getting them done [0:15:07]Tips on when you should be wary of a dentist doing veneers [0:16:53]How you can make sure that you are comfortable with the veneers before cementing [0:17:44]What to expect after getting veneers [0:18:37]Caveats to getting veneers and managing your expectations around them [0:19:08]The rare cases where insurance will cover a veneer [0:20:17]The dark side of Hollywood: cosmetic dentistry and the lengths actors will go to [0:20:52]What can go wrong with veneers and how to prevent these worst-case scenarios [0:22:10]How to choose the dentist to do your veneers and the veneers themselves [0:23:52]The key to a good veneer: the lab and the characterization [0:25:57]The importance of examining your motives for getting veneers as a patient, and case-selection on the dentist’s side [0:26:47]Why Dr. B loves doing veneers [0:30:48]The health benefits of cosmetic work [0:32:03]Composite veneers: a temporary fix [0:33:32]How to find your nearest functional dentist that can do cosmetic dentistry [0:35:53]How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dental Accreditation: the London Dental InstituteAsk The Dentist: Collected Articles About VeneersAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

One of the first rituals a child is taught is to brush their teeth after breakfast. And up until 10 years ago, Dr. B was giving this same advice to patients. However, with the discovery of the oral microbiome, science is no longer pointing to this as best practice. Today Dr. B addresses the question “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?” Tune in to hear how eating causes an acid wash within our mouths, and how brushing during this results in enamel demineralization. Find out the role of the oral microbiome in the production of acid following eating, and why disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work (and can even be harmful). Dr. B uses a simple analogy to describe the mechanical benefits of brushing and flossing in disrupting the biofilm and explains the pros and cons of the timing of your morning brushing. Listen in to find out why you should be changing your brushing habits!Key Points From This Episode:Why Dr. B’s answer to today’s question differs from his answer 15 years agoToday’s question: “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?”How eating causes acid exposure in the mouthThe mechanism underlying tooth decay by acid washHow our understanding of this process has changed due to the discovery of the oral microbiomeWhy disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work, and is bad for youKeeping the oral microbiome commensal: brushing and flossing at the right timeHow the oral microbiome protects your teethWeeding the garden: an analogy for disrupting the biofilmHow the biofilm is affected by sleepWhy brushing right after eating can cause enamel damage by acid exposure and demineralization The two best times to brush your teeth in the morning: before eating or 30 minutes afterHow the mechanical action of brushing and flossing helps the oral microbiomeWhy brushing right after an unhealthy meal doesn’t undo the damageWhy you need to brush your teeth even if you don’t eat in the morningThe role of functional dentistry in changing the status quo and staying up to date with science How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

When NASA noticed astronauts were losing essential minerals in space, they started prescribing hydroxyapatite supplementation. A Japanese company picked up on this, and in the 1970s released a commercial toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite. Recently, a toothpaste brand in the USA has also jumped on the bandwagon, and today Dr. B answers two questions about why this is a great prospect! Tune in to hear how hydroxyapatite works on teeth (and bones), why it’s better than fluoride, and where you can find it. Dr. B breaks down complicated chemistry into a simple explanation that makes the benefits of hydroxyapatite clear. From whether nano- or micro-particles are better, to how the state of the mouth affects its efficacy, you don’t want to miss out on this educational episode! Join us today to get the details on two of Dr. B's favorite studies, why you shouldn't be concerned about absorbing hydroxyapatite, and so much more! Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s questions: “What’s the natural size and shape of hydroxyapatite in our saliva, would having the most biomimetic size and shape in toothpaste make it more effective?”What biomimetic substances are, and why Dr. B supports themHow calcium is a building block of the bodyThe functions of essential nutrients like hydroxyapatiteWhat the difference is between nano and micro-sized particlesWhy both nano and micro-sized hydroxyapatite particles are safe for use: how they get broken down in the bodyThe history of calcium-phosphate based materials in human health and modern medicineHow hydroxyapatite was introduced into toothpaste: from NASA to SangiThe difference between fluoride and hydroxyapatite in enamel repairWhy hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are better than microparticles in toothpasteTwo of Dr. B’s favorite studies on hydroxyapatite in human healthHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Sangi co., ltd JapanThe Biomimetic Approach to Design Apatites for Nanobiotechnological ApplicationsNano-hydroxyapatite and its applications in preventive, restorative and regenerative dentistry: a review of literatureAsk the Dentist: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best BrandsAsk the Dentist: Boka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteKarex websiteFunctional Dentistry: Everything You Need to KnowThe future of dentistry is functional. Here’s WhyAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentisCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As a functional dentist, Dr. B is used to being asked what functional dentistry is. However, this week, this question comes with a twist as fans ask Dr. B what he is most excited about in functional dentistry. Tune in to discover Dr. B's journey to functional dentistry, from sleuthing as a child to setting up a directory globally for fellow functional dentists. Find out how functional dentistry ultimately saves lives and money, and why (despite this) the ADA doesn’t yet accept it as a specialization. We discuss diseases that functional dentistry can prevent, and Dr. B's book recommendations that cover functional topics. From nasal breathing to flat dental plates, Alzheimer’s disease to sleep apnoea, Dr. B takes us through his tips and research into the pathologies that he has applied to functional dentistry, to benefit his patients and family members. Join us to hear all this and more about the future of functional dentistry. Key Points From This Episode:Dr. B's weekend plans: why getting out from behind a screen post-vaccination is so importantWhy most people ask what functional dentistry isToday's question: what Dr. B is most excited about in functional dentistryHow Dr. Mark Hyman is an inspiration for functional practitionersWhat motivated Dr. B to become a functional dentistWorking upstream: how functional dentistry ultimately saves lives and moneyHow the body compensating causes pathology and why it’s important to intercept these compensations early onRecognizing functional dentists: one patient and one practitioner at a timeTeaching functional dentistry: learning beyond your official educationThe systems that interact to affect your dental healthBecoming a practitioner of the oral-microbiomeDr. B's "aha" moment about sleep apnea and prevention through dentistryThe oral-systemic connection: what happens in the mouth affects the bodyHow root cause thinking can save the entire healthcare system The importance of promoting nasal breathingUnderstanding the P. gingivalis bug and its link to Alzheimer’s diseaseWhy the future of dentistry is functionalFunctional dentistry throughout the world: From Brazil to JapanHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Functional Dentistry: Everything You Need to Know - Ask the DentistThe future of dentistry is functional. Here's why. - Ask the DentistDr. Mark Hyman on LinkedInBreath: The New Science of a Lost ArtAsk the Dentist: 5 Sleep Apnoea QuestionsCan gingivitis cause Alzheimer's Disease? [A Scientific Review]Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

While many of us have experienced tooth pain, it seldom becomes fatal. This was not the case in the past, and world history would probably be vastly different if we had 21st-century dental care readily accessible across the ages. Welcome back to Ask the Dentist podcast, where today we ask Dr. Burhenne “what fixes pulpitis”? Tune in to find out what pulpitis is, why the pulp of the tooth is so important, and how it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Find out the difference between reversible and irreversible pulpitis (and how a crown can help either situation), and how to manage acute pulpitis. From a basic anatomy lesson on what teeth are made of and how they are formed, to a simple explanation of why tooth pain is something you don’t want to leave unchecked, don’t miss out on this fascinating episode! Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to today’s question: what fixes pulpitis?Diving back into dental school, the textbooks Dr. B keptFind out about the anatomy of a tooth, from pulp to dentinWhat the pulp consists of: nerves, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and odontoblastsHow a tooth is formed (dentinogenesis)The role of the pulp in repairing certain types of tooth damageWhat happens to the pulp as you ageThe function of the pulp: sensation, nutrition, infection prevention, and possibly even balance!How pulpitis occurs; how it causes tooth pain and why it can result in tooth deathThe difference between reversible and irreversible pulpitisWhy you should never wait to get tooth pain treatedHow a crown can prevent reversible pulpitis from becoming irreversible pulpitisWhy a crown is worth having even if the issue is irreversible pulpitisHow to manage acute pulpitisDr. B’s idea for a book: how tooth pain has shaped world historyHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Approximately eight percent of the annual USA dentistry budget is spent on Fluoride treatments for children. Tune in today to hear why Dr. B feels this isn't worth the cost, and what you can do to avoid your kid needing one! We hear what fluoride is, what products it's found in, and how we are exposed to it daily. Find out how it causes fluorosis, and how you can raise kids without exposing them to it. Dr. B also discusses two of his favorite studies that show that fluoride is absorbed through the mucous membranes and that "F" treatments are not cost-effective prevention methods. We learn what the future of dentistry holds and what “F” treatments will hopefully be replaced with. Discover why functional dentists are the key to managing your dental health without fluoride, and where you can find one today!Key Points From This Episode:How you can give Dr. B some constructive feedback on his Ask the Dentist podcastToday’s question: What are your thoughts on the “F” treatment for a 28-month-old?What the “F” treatment is: The fluoride treatmentWhy Dr. B doesn’t believe you should do the “F” treatmentWhat fluoride is, and why it’s in our waterHow toothpaste can cause fluorosisThe absorption of fluoride and how even showering in fluoridated water is a riskA study Dr. B recommends that showed “F” treatments were not cost-effective at preventing cavitiesWhy choosing a functional dentist is the best preventative measure against cavities How the dynamic nature of the tooth means you can influence its healthDr. B’s recommended toothpaste: Boka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteWhy the field of dentistry needs a hydroxyapatite-based tooth varnishWhy it doesn’t matter how much hydroxyapatite is in your systemRaising your kids without fluoride: filtering water and changing toothpasteHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Email Dr. B your feedback at mark@askthedentist.comThe Dhru Purohit Podcast #207: The Dangers of Fluoride on the Brain and IQ with Dr. Mark BurhenneThe Fluoride Action NetworkAbsorption of fluoride through the oral mucosa of ratsCost-effectiveness analysis of two caries prevention methods in the first permanent molar in childrenProfessionally Applied Topical Fluoride and Restorative Care in Insured ChildrenBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you could raise your kid’s IQ by a couple of points, would you? In this episode, Dr. B reflects on how humanity is so focused on changing the future that we don’t consider how modifying our past and present behavior might have the same outcome. By using a hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste, you can prevent neurotoxicity in your kid, raising their IQ by the same number of points that gene therapy would lead to. However, using the right tools and products is no use if your protocol is wrong. Today, Dr. B addresses the question of whether to rinse or spit after brushing. The short answer is to spit but not rinse, however, there are a few caveats based on the time of day and the toothpaste you are using. Tune in to find out how hydroxyapatite toothpaste works on a molecular level, why saliva is useful when brushing, and how long to leave your toothpaste in your mouth. Don't miss out on this important information!Key Points From This Episode:How an article about reproductive technology got Dr. B thinking about raising your child’s IQ.The impact of fluoride on the developing brain.Why dentists don’t give enough information about brushing.Today’s topic: “Do you suggest rinsing out your mouth with water after brushing your teeth using Boka toothpaste?”Why we don’t get the benefits of brushing if our techniques are bad.The molecular mechanism underlying hydroxyapatite toothpaste.Why people under the age of 20 should not swallow fluoride-based toothpaste. How to brush using hydroxyapatite toothpaste: don’t rinse with water.Why NASA developed hydroxyapatite toothpaste.When to wet your toothbrush.The difference in tooth structure from fluoride- or hydroxyapatite-based repair.Timing when brushing your teeth: leaving hydroxyapatite in saliva for 30 minutes.What Dr. B wishes he’d learned in dental school, and why clinical practice lags behind science.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Wall Street Journal: Imagine a Future Without SexBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteRiseWell Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAsk the Dentist: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best BrandsAsk the Dentist: Collected Articles on Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteClinpro 5000 ToothpasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Forming good dental habits with kids can be like pulling teeth. To address this issue, today Dr. B answers the question, "What's a good protocol, products, and tools for kids aged four-12?" Surprisingly, the products and tools are less important than the protocol, however, Dr. B still gives some good recommendations for all three! Tune in to hear why you should be using Myotape if your kid is mouth breathing, and what products to buy to ensure that if they need to brush at school, it is as easy as possible. From throwing out your mouthwash to which toothpaste to use, this episode has it all! Join us as we hear why the protocol is more important than both the products and the tools used, and what this encompasses. From diet to timing to technique, Dr. B provides a wealth of advice and practical tips that you can put into use today. You don’t want to miss this entertaining episode filled with tips to help you give your kid a healthier smile. Key Points From This Episode:Brushing your kid's teeth: "What's a good protocol, products, and tools for kids aged four-12?"Why Dr. B will split his advice from kids aged four to eight-year-olds, and eight to 12 year-oldsWhy protocol is more important than the products or tools usedBreaking down the products: throw out your mouthwash and fluoride-based toothpaste and buy hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste insteadFind out which toothpaste brands will make the differenceWhy you should be using Myotape to prevent mouth breathingProtocol: from technique to timingMotivating kids to brush their teeth: modeling the behaviorWhy you should supervise your kid’s brushing until the age of 10How to give your kids the power to control their teeth-cleaning behaviorDiscussing diet and how this affects their brushing routineTips for how and when a kid should brush at schoolTwo things Dr. B feels you should read about: the dental diet and vitamin K2Choosing a functional dentist to help your kids form good habits How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Fluoride Action NetworkRisewell Toothpaste for KidsBoka Coco Ginger Flavored ToothpasteMyotape websiteThe Oxygen Advantage: Simple, Scientifically Proven Breathing Techniques to Help You Become Healthier, Slimmer, Faster, and FitterThe Breathing Cure: Develop New Habits for a Healthier, Happier, and Longer LifeClose Your Mouth: Buteyko Clinic Handbook for Perfect HealthRadius websiCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Most of us have been taught to brush, spit, and rinse after meals. Tune in today to find out why this is not necessarily what Dr. B recommends! From the time of day to the type of toothpaste (fluoride or hydroxyapatite-based), to your age, Dr. B explains how each of these aspects can impact your dental health. We discover the molecular mechanism underlying how fluoride remineralizes teeth and why it’s dangerous for kids to swallow, but not adults. Dr. B provides a wealth of information about the invention of the first toothbrush before World War II, when fluoride was introduced into toothpaste, and what the purpose of plaque is, as well as how the type of food we eat affects it. He also shares his daily brushing routine and what you can do to improve yours. Don’t miss out on this educational episode, and don’t forget your homework for next week!Key Points From This Episode:When to brush: Should you be rinsing after you brush your teeth, or should you be waiting after using your fluoridated toothpaste? How the pH in your mouth is affected by the food you eat.Why fluoride should be on your teeth for as long as possible, but not in your body.Waiting 30 to 40 minutes after eating before brushing to allow for remineralization.How the biofilm is affected by brushing.The protective role of plaque and the biofilm.The impact of sugary and processed food on the biofilm.When and why the toothbrush was invented.The addition of fluoride to toothpaste and how it remineralizes teeth on a molecular level.Why children need to spit and rinse fluoride-based toothpaste, but adults do not.Why you don’t need to rinse when using hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste.How brushing straight after eating removes the calcium slurry from your teeth.Your homework for the week: Which does Dr. B do first, floss or brush?How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistLinks Mentioned in Today’s Episode:'Ask the Dentist: Boka Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste''Ask the Dentist: Should you floss before or after brushing?'Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As the parent of a young child, there is a lot of internal and external pressure to give them the best possible start in life. But what if it’s not always clear whether something will have a positive or negative impact? Our question this week comes from Anna, a lactation consultant who is concerned over the correlation she has seen between breastfeeding moms and cavities in young children. In today’s episode, we hear from Dr. B about the benefits of breastfeeding, why it does not cause cavities, and what other factors in your child’s life might be causing cavities. We also discuss how a vaginal birth can influence a child’s oral microbiome and why infant formula is likely to cause cavities. Later, Dr. B shares how to institute positive habits that will benefit your child’s microbiome and why it's so beneficial. For all this and much more, tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s topic on whether breastfeeding can cause cavities in childrenWhy breastmilk does not cause cavities, as it is not cariogenicHow your method of birth can have an impact on your child’s oral microbiomeThe study of breastfeeding for more than 40 days and how it affects your childThe link between breastfeeding and facial developmentWhy using formula can cause tooth decayHow the condition of the mother before birth plays a role in the child’s healthHow a vaginal birth assists your child’s microbiomeWhy breastmilk is the ideal method for culturing a child’s microbiomeSome of the factors that cause tooth decay in humans versus other mammalsWhy it’s important to minimize saliva sharing activities like sharing a toothbrushSnacks: it’s not about the quantity of the snack, but the frequency of the snackDr. B’s advice for preventing cavities by teaching children proper oral care habitsWhy it’s good to take your child to see a dentist from as early as six monthsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryBokaRisewellCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

One of the most flattering things is knowing that there are fellow functional dentists who listen to the show. Today's question is from an aspiring functional dentist, and Dr. B dives into the oral microbiome. We hear about an article published in the Journal of Dentistry that looked at the plaque pH of caries-free versus caries-active individuals. Despite what conventional dentistry wants us to do, we cannot isolate one bacteria as being the culprit. It is all interrelated, which is why it is so important to have a dentist who understands the oral microbiome. Tune in to hear it all! Key Points From This Episode:The oral microbiome gives you a richer, more nuanced understanding of oral healthHear about a journal article in The Journal of DentistryIt is not one bug that causes gum disease; it’s a whole host of themCorneum bacteria is responsible for some serious diseasesWhat causes bacteria to go from commensal to pathogenicWhy we need dental microbiome researchers and degreesIt’s all about the oral microbiomeHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryJournal of DentistryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Fillings are very common procedures and while they are preventable, they still happen. So, if you are getting a filling done, should you go with metal or plastic as your material of choice? Today, Dr. B outlines these two materials and weighs up the pros and cons of each. Even though plastic is not good for us, metal in our mouths is far worse. There are numerous side effects of metal fillings that Dr. B explains. We also hear which material he uses for fillings on his patients. Remember, there is no informed consent when it comes to choosing your filling material, so make sure you explicitly tell your dentist which one you’d prefer.Key Points From This Episode:You should always ask your dentist before they place anything in your mouthThere is no informed consent when it comes to the type of material that’s used for a fillingA history of metal fillings, why they are so popular, and some of the drawbacks of this materialDetails about plastic fillings and some of the dangers that come with themWhy Dr. B thinks plastic fillings are still overall better than metal onesThe material Dr. B is currently using for his fillingsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAdmira FusionAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryMercury Fillings Dangers, Who Is At Risk & Removal ChecklistCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This week’s listener question concerns the relationship between sinus infections and tooth pain. Our skulls can often be compared to a laptop, not just because of its processing power, but also because it has so many intricate parts compressed inside a small space. For this reason, it can often be difficult to differentiate between sinus pain and tooth pain. This can lead to indecision over whether to perform a root canal as well as prolonged pain for the patient. In today’s episode, Dr. B examines the intricate relationship between sinus pain and tooth pain and suggests useful tips for determining which one is the root cause. Tune in to learn how you can tell the difference and hear why it’s important to be patient with your dentist so you can avoid an unnecessary root canal!Key Points From This Episode:The relationship between a sinus infection and tooth painWhy the skull is like a laptop: it has lots of parts compressed into a small spaceWhy there can often be confusion over whether you might need a root canalHow inflammation due to maxillary sinusitis can lead to inflammation inside the toothSome of the methods for determining whether you have sinusitis or an infected toothHow sinusitis and tooth pain respond differently to cold waterThe debilitating effect that tooth pain can have on an individualWhy it’s often helpful to see a specialist like an endodontistHow sinus infections can lead to unnecessary root canalsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Geographic tongue is a common, easy-to-spot oral condition, where the tongue takes on an atlas-like appearance. There are white borders around patches on the surface of the tongue, and in some cases, the condition can be painful. So, what causes this problem? In today's episode, Dr. B gets into some of the potential factors that cause this issue and also unpacks what you can do to overcome it. Like with any medical issue, there is no silver bullet or simple solution. As such, it is important to take a holistic treatment approach rather than a palliative one. Tune in to hear it all!  Key Points From This Episode:Why the condition is called ‘geographic tongue’, and where it can appear Some of the potential causes of geographic tongue The age group that is most affected by this condition If you have a geographic tongue, your dentist should be looking at a holistic solutionThe possible link between stress and geographic tongue Psoriasis and geographic tongue and the link between the two conditions Other proposed conditions that could cause geographic tongue Dr. B’s take on some palliative home remedies that are commonly suggested to treat geographic tongue More holistic treatments to the causes of geographic tongue A simple solution you use do to treat dry mouth  Dr. B’s best palliative solution treatment for geographic tongue How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhy Zebras Don't Get UlcersCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

When it comes to making dental health decisions for yourself or your children, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. There is no absolute right or wrong decision, so it is often about finding the lesser of two evils. This is why it is important to do as much research as you can, and to find credible sources that you resonate with. In today’s episode, Dr. B. talks about sealants and some of the research around these coverings. We hear about some of the potential adverse effects, when it is necessary to get sealants for your child, and what a good sealant insertion looks like. As with many areas of dentistry, this is a subject with a lot of gray areas, but the more you know, the better informed you will be, so be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Some background on sealants, including what they are, how long they last, and their efficacyIt is difficult to get patients in at the right time if they need sealantsYou have to weigh up the good and the bad when it comes to dental decisionsSealants contain endocrine disruptors which have adverse long-term effectsWhat researchers have found about BPA exposure with sealantsHow Dr. B’s sealant insertion process worksBefore you put something in your body, you should do thorough researchHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This episode is all about one of the most hyped-up topics in dentistry: whitening. While Dr. B has spoken on the topic previously and there is plenty of information available on his website, today’s episode looks at whitening in the context of a new substance on the market that claims to be safer than conventional hydrogen peroxide-based methods. It’s called PAP, or phthalimidoperoxcaproic acid, and today’s question about it comes from Charlotte in the UK; is it actually a safer alternative to peroxide? You might be surprised by Dr. B’s answer!Key Points From This Episode:Some background on whitening and why there is so much hype and so little science behind itFind out what PAP is, how it works, and why the narrative that it is safe is dangerousWhy regulations regarding whitening should be stricter in the US, like they are in the EUThe importance of professional supervision when it comes to whiteningHear why Dr. B doesn’t recommend PAP as an alternative to hydrogen peroxide How overexposure to hydrogen peroxide and PAP can increase tooth sensitivityDr. B recommends waiting for further studies to be conducted on PAP before jumping on the bandwagonWhy you should be wary of any dentist that advises you to whiten your teethHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Recommended Whitening ProductsAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

In today’s episode, Dr. B answers a listener's question about whether the Epstein-Barr virus is responsible for her bleeding gums. EBV is a systemic infection with an oral manifestation meaning it acts as a great springboard to talk about the oral-systemic connection as well. EBV is more colloquially known as the ‘kissing disease’ and commonly flares up in patients who have contracted it when they are run down, causing symptoms such as bleeding gums. Dr. B takes us through the signs, symptoms, and manifestations of EBV and also gets into some of the other conditions it has been linked to. After covering the basic facts about the virus, we take a deep dive into the oral-systemic connection which EBV illustrates so well. Dr. B traces a chain of connections between outbreaks of EBV, inflammation, spikes in glucose, diet, and the immune system. We also hear tips and tricks for managing EBV involving periodontal treatments, eating to combat inflammation, and keeping a close eye on glucose levels. Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s question revolving around bleeding gums and the Epstein-Barr virusThe typical situations that lead to EBV and related conditions it causesHow recent studies have implicated EBV in the pathogenesis of advanced periodontal diseaseDiscussing how EBV illustrates the oral-systemic connection Other places EBV can be found such as in the tips of the rootsSeeing a periodontist and getting regular cleanings to suppress the viral loadThe connection between inflammation and episodes of EBVTips for keeping EBV under control around bolstering the oral microbiomeWearing a glucose monitor in between sessions with the periodontistMaintaining a diet that does not flare up glucose levels and weaken the immune systemHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

The majority of consumers take it as a given that all kinds of toothpaste from major brands are safe and effective. But as Dr. B will attest in today’s episode, this is not necessarily the case. Most toothpaste brands use harsh surfactants and chemicals to keep their manufactured batches homogenous. These act as a disinfectant that temporarily cleans our mouths, but results in the disruption of our oral microbiome. Dr. B unpacks the history of toothpaste, how the Western diet has affected our oral health, and shares his hopes for how the industry is changing. Tune in to hear his recommendations for how you can take charge of your oral health and become an empowered consumer!Key Points From This Episode:How our changing diets have affected our oral health over the past 500 yearsFor the past 100 years, the key ingredients of toothpaste have remained largely unchangedHow big brand toothpaste companies mislead consumers when they advertise their productHow manufacturing bigger batches of toothpaste require more chemicals to keep it homogenousThe oral microbiome and how it protects your oral healthHow toothpaste with harsh ingredients can damage your oral microbiomeWhy Dr. B recommends and uses products with at least 15 percent hydroxyapatite instead of fluorideHow our Western diets cause a need for toothpaste useHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Flushed: How the Plumber Saved CivilizationBokaRiseWellAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist Directory  Email Dr. BCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Sjögren's is an autoimmune disease that wreaks havoc on your immune system. One of the major symptoms of the disease is a dry mouth, the result of attacks on your saliva glands. As saliva plays a pivotal role in speaking, swallowing, and eating, having a dry mouth can be highly problematic. This issue does not only affect those with Sjögren's, so today's episode applies to everyone. In this show, Dr. B. unpacks the issue of dry mouth and resultant oral thrush. He also provides some actionable steps you can take, along with products you can use if you suffer from these conditions. Tune in to hear it all!Key Points From This Episode:Hear about what Sjögren's syndrome isInsights into what causes a dry mouth and the adverse side effects of the conditionWhat to do about dry mouth, one major symptom of Sjögren'sThings to add to your regimen to help with the demineralization of your teethSome things to do to deal with the candida if you have itBiotene, the artificial saliva product, can help if you have extreme dry mouthHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryBioteneDry Mouth: Consequences, Causes, and TreatmentsCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today we dive into a question that has been a sensitive topic for a long time. We are talking about the dangers of fluoride and providing some advice for the best practices for parents wondering about steps to take to prevent their children from ingesting the chemical. This subject has been discussed for decades now, since the introduction of fluoride into the water supply, and its use in dental care generally, but there is more available research now than ever before, and the findings are more emphatic for it; fluoride ingestion has been shown to negatively affect the health of children, with the most worrying results being damage to the brain. With this in mind, it is clearly worth thinking about the measures you can take to reduce these risks and protect your child as early as possible. In today's discussion, we talk about some of the steps that can be taken by parents, even before conception, and why these strategies do not have to be expensive and difficult. There is hope for changes in legislation and practice in the future, but until then these are the best ways to stay healthy and offer your children the healthiest future! Tune in to hear what you can do today!Key Points From This Episode:Today's question: What are the responsibilities of parents regarding fluoride? A brief history of the research into the effects of fluoride on babies and childrenFiltration measures to take against the ingestion of fluoride in waterRealistic prevention of exposure to fluoride The main reason to avoid fluoride ingestion: brain damage The susceptibility of younger brains to the effects of fluoride Simple and affordable ways to reduce fluoride in tap water Educating yourself through the available information and research on the subjectPossible changes in regulation and what we can hope for in the future How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionThe Broken Brain Podcast Episode with Dr. BFluoride Action NetworkFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you have ever been prescribed toothpaste such as PreviDent 5000, you might have wondered how they work and whether there are any non-fluoride alternatives. The good news is there are, and they are extremely safe to use. In today's episode, Dr. B shed light on hydroxyapatite toothpaste and why they are such great replacements for their conventional counterparts. We also get some product recommendations from Dr. B along with advice on how to use these kinds of toothpaste to ensure maximum efficacy. Tune in to hear it all!Key Points From This Episode:Dr. B's take on PreviDent 5000 and similar productsWhy products like PreviDent 5000 are only available via prescriptionThe different forms that fluoride typically takesWhat studies have shown about a 10% concentration of hydroxyapatite and the benefits it offersWhy Dr. B is so excited about hydroxyapatiteWarnings around boutique toothpaste that claim to contain hydroxyapatiteHow to use the toothpaste, Boka, Dr. B recommendsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryHydroxyapatite ToothpasteBokaRiseWellCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you haven't heard of miswak, you are not alone. Despite its prevalence in many Muslim and Arab countries, it is not widely known around the world. Miswak is a tooth-cleaning twig or chewing stick made from the roots of the Arak tree, Salvadora persica. In today's episode, Dr. B sheds some light on this twig, how it works, and what studies have shown about people who use it rather than toothpaste. Although it is likely safe to use, when the ingredient is found in commercial products, it might not have the same effect as the unprocessed compound itself. Tune in to hear all this and more!Key Points From This Episode:When Dr. B discovered miswak as a young dentist Many countries around the world use miswak, a tooth cleaning twig Discover what miswak is and the compound that makes it workWhat studies have shown about populations who use miswak as opposed to toothbrushes Dr. B's experience in Nigeria, where he worked with a community using chewing sticks Whatever our ancestors were doing to take care of their oral health worked The only toothpaste ingredient Dr. B wholeheartedly recommendsHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionHydroxyapatite ToothpasteFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If your child is having difficulty with anxiety or concentration it is a good idea to consider whether poor sleep is the culprit. Today on the show Dr. B responds to a question from a listener in which she asks if it is a good idea to suggest mouth taping to her 14-year-old daughter. Dr. B recommends mouth taping for anybody over three years of age and he spends this episode talking about why. Before diving into the benefits of using sleep tape our host takes a few moments to refresh listeners on the functional medicine approach and why patients would be better off choosing a healthcare practitioner that follows this framework for diagnosis and treatment. Moving onto the subject of sleep, we hear about how sleeping with the mouth open changes blood chemistry as well as respiratory rate, is indicative of developmental issues, and how these changes can have detrimental consequences on our wellbeing. Dr. B makes recommendations for the best kinds of mouth tape to use, how to breach the subject of mouth taping with teenagers, and the kinds of problems that sleep tape could clear up. Tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:How the functional medicine approach is a better choice because it treats causesThe limits of the information that is taught to healthcare providers during collegeNoelle asks Dr. B whether her 14-year-old should use sleep tapeWhy Dr. B recommends mouth taping from ages three and upRecommendations for the best types of tape to useReasons for the yellowing of the teeth including sleeping with the mouth openDiagnosing one’s children to see if they are sleeping with their mouths openThe kinds of problems sleeping with one’s mouth open indicatesThe benefits of mouth taping for better sleep and the knock-on effects of thisHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

An issue that causes a great deal of confusion is whether or not patients need to premedicate before a dental procedure. While your physician may recommend one thing, your dentist might say another, and as a patient, this can be stressful and anxiety-inducing. In today’s episode, Dr. B sheds light on this topic and talks about why you don’t need to premedicate if you have a prosthetic joint. He also gets into why this is such a complex issue and offers advice on what you can do if you are taking antibiotics frequently. As research continues to show, long-term antibiotic use causes more harm than good, so it is vital to be careful when taking them. Be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:There is a problem with the over-prescription of antibioticsWhy you don’t need to premedicate before a dental procedure if you have a prosthetic jointThe complications that arise around premedication protocolsIf you can, bring in the necessary documentation before you visit your dentistWhere the need for premedication comes fromAdvice for what to do if you are frequently taking antibioticsYou can take the pre-medication within two hours of the procedure you are having doneHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

For today's episode, we are focusing on clenching, looking at some of the root causes, risk factors, and links to gum recession. This is an important and complex topic that comes up a lot in dental work, with some notable progress being made in understanding it in recent decades. It is also a great proxy through which we can see the differences between a strictly academic approach to dentistry and a more functional and experienced approach. Although there are differences between clenching and grinding, they both fall under the condition called bruxism and shall be grouped together for the purposes of this discussion. As with most issues, understanding the root causes is the most important step, and this can help us begin to unpack treatment and get a handle on the other conditions that may be connected. The first thing to note is the two different classes of bruxism, with the condition being divided into the grinding that occurs during sleep and that which happens during periods of being awake. When it comes to bruxism, there are simple steps such as the use of sleep guards, which can be helpful but are merely a bandaid to the problem. We look at some of the circumstances that can give rise to bruxism, including stress and anxiety, aggressive dental treatments, sleep apnea and more. If we can narrow down the potential causes and patterns, we are then more able to find an effective treatment plan, so for all this and more on how to start unpacking this tricky issue, listen today! Key Points From This Episode:The small differences between clenching and grindingThe root causes for bruxism, the umbrella technical term for clenching and grinding Two types of bruxism; during sleep and wakefulness Primary causes for grinding: stress, anxiety, anger, tension, misalignment, trauma, and facial developmentThe contrasting reasons for sleep bruxism; narrowed airways and sleep apnea for example  Risk factors associated with grinding and the dangers of denialThe symptoms we should be looking out for: disrupted sleep, aches, tooth sensitivity, and moreSome functional dental approaches to dealing with bruxism worth considering The process of narrowing down the risk factors and causes in order to find the right treatmentDangers and continued issues with receding gums; connecting this to grindingAddressing issues with grinding in young children early on How a good relationship with your dentist can simplify complex issues such as these How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

There are many factors that can attribute to cavities, many of which, play an important role in the management of oral hygiene. In today’s episode, Dr. B goes dives into an explanation behind the factors that need to be addressed when taking oral care into consideration. He shares some key points regarding the dry mouth condition, how your diet factors in, oral hygiene including toothpaste recommendations, flossing, and biofilm management, and genetics. Dr. B also reminds us that it is important to try and stay on the side of remineralization rather than demineralization. Tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:We discuss factors that need to be addressed with regards to cavities1. Dry Mouth; dehydration and mouth breathing 2. Diet; why it’s important to factor in what we eat in our daily diets3. Oral hygiene; biofilm management, flossing first and using the right toothpaste 4. Genetics; how your teeth form and why you don’t need to worry about itThe importance of working with a dentistXylitol and how it factors into oral hygiene managementWhy you should floss before brushingWhether or not flossing spreads the disease of decay; no it does not.The importance of staying on the side of remineralization than demineralization How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryThe Dental Diet by Dr. Steven LinCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Cavitations are not widely recognized in the field of dentistry, despite a growing body of evidence to support their effects on the body. In today’s episode, Dr. B explains what cavitation is, how this empty space in your body - where no bone exists - links to chronic disease, and walks us through steps to take if you think you may have one. We also hear about the surgical treatment available. Remember, if you suspect you may have cavitation, you should go and see a functional dentist as they are armed with the knowledge to help you overcome this state of disease. Tune in to hear more! Key Points From This Episode: An explanation of what cavitation is and why it causes problems in the body Cavitational osteonecrosis is not a recognized state of disease in dentistry The detailed diagnostic procedure necessary to find cavitation Some of the main causes of cavitations, including trauma from dental treatments The links between cavitation and chronic disease  Surgery is the only treatment option if you have cavitation Why Dr. B is so passionate about cavitations and educating people about this problem There is a growing body of research around cavitations and their effects If you think you have cavitation, go and see a functional dentistHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Gum recession is something that affects many people of all ages. Today, Dr. B explores this common issue, what the symptoms are, and gives insights into the most common causes of the condition. These include aggressive orthodontics, food trauma, and tongue and lip-ties, among others. We also hear about ways that you can prevent your gums from receding. Importantly, this problem cannot be reserved non-surgically, which is why it is so important to take a proactive approach to stop the issue from occurring in the first place. Tune in to hear it all!Key Points From This Episode:Find out what gum recession is and the tell-tale signs that you might have it Some of the common gum recession causes How aggressive orthodontics contribute to gum recession What food trauma is and its links to gum recession How lip and tongue-ties can cause the gums to recede What happens when your teeth are crowded and the way this impacts to gum recession The congenital reason for gum recession and who is most at risk Ways that you can prevent gum recession from happening  Learn whether gum recession is reversible or not If you intervene in the early stages of gum recession, you will not need surgery You can prevent gum recession but surgery is the only way to reverse itHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Oral health is about so much more than cavities. It is linked to our overall health, and there are ties between a lack of oral health and chronic health struggles later in life. Fluoride is a controversial topic, and in today’s episode, Dr. B talks about this prevalent neurotoxin. We begin by hearing about why it is crucial to ensure that those with developing brains aren’t exposed to it. There is evidence that shows that it lowers IQ. After that, Dr. B shares the three biggest sources of fluoride in our lives and how to avoid consumption. There are so many harmful chemicals that we are exposed to which we don’t have control over, but it is relatively simple to limit our exposure to fluoride. Remember, it is easier to fix a tooth than it is a brain, so take the necessary precautions now for you and your family’s health.  Key Points From This Episode:It is so important to protect anyone with a developing brain from fluorideThe biggest source of fluoride in your life is your drinking water, but it is easy to remove itAn affordable product Dr. B recommends that removes fluoride from your waterThe U.S drinks more fluoridated water than every other country in the world combinedAnother source of fluoride that Dr. B worries aboutThe fluoride treatments you get from conventional dentists are also problematicIf your dentist pushes back against you opting out of the fluoride treatment, look for a new oneYou don’t need fluoride to have a cavity-free child How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Fluoride and IQ: Does prenatal exposure to fluoride lower IQ?Hydroxyapatite Vs. Fluoride: How Do They Compare?Fluoride in Water & Toothpaste: Uses, Dangers & Side Effects [2020 Update]Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best BrandsDr. B's Favorite ToothpastesFluoride For Kids & Cavities: The Myths & The Science [Parent’s Guide]Does Fluoride Toothpaste Work?The Dangers of Fluoride on the Brain and IQ with Dr. Mark Burhenne on Dhru Purohit PodcastZero WaterDhru PurohitDhru Purohit on Instagram‎Dhru Purohit PodcastAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAskCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Finding the right advice and navigating the system when it comes to treating sleep apnea can be frustrating. So, today, Dr. B is addressing five relevant questions related to sleep apnea. These are questions that he and his wife had and struggled to answer, even as medical professionals, when they found out about their sleep apnea diagnosis. In this episode, we hear about the factors to consider when deciding on a device to help with sleep apnea, the efficacy of surgery to treat a tongue tie, and the reliability of at-home testing. Functional dentists are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about sleep apnea, so if you have access to one where you live, try to see them because they are more likely to spot the disorder than your physician. Be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Question 1: What factors should you consider when deciding between an oral appliance and a sleep apnea machine? Two points to consider when deciding on a device and how to ascertain them. Question 2: How effective is surgery in releasing a tongue tie? Why you should consider surgery along with mild functional therapy to treat tongue ties. Question 3: How reliable is at-home sleep apnea testing? Why Dr. B cautions against using a standalone home test.  Question 4: Are other gadgets, like chin straps or nostril strips, effective treatments for sleep apnea? These ‘sleep hacks’ usually will not treat sleep apnea alone. Question 5: Are there any new developments in the field of sleep apnea research? Some of the advancements that excite Dr. B and the others he is worried about. Your dentist is more likely to see sleep apnea than your physician, so go see them.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Tweetables:“If you don’t navigate the system properly, if you don’t end up with the right device or therapy, then you’re going to get frustrated.” — @askthedentist [0:03:08]“Go see your dentist. Your dentist is more likely to be able to see sleep apnea than your physician.” — @askthedentist [0:11:23]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteFollow Dr. B on Instagram: @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter: @askthedentist Ask Dr. B a QuestionAmerican Academy Sleep MedicineAmerican Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine The 8-Hour Sleep ParadoxCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Most of us are familiar with Dr. Bronner's, a company that produces a host of hygiene products, including hand and body soaps, toothpaste, and hand disinfectant. You might have seen that they say that their castile soap can be used as toothpaste, but is this safe? In today's episode, Dr. B dives into what castile soap actually is and why it is better than regular, mass-produced soaps. He talks about why, when combined with essential oils, which are bactericidal, using castile soap as toothpaste is not a good idea. Remember, we want to nourish and feed our mouths rather than create a dysbiosis. Finally, Dr. B recommends how to safely use castile soap as toothpaste if you are in a pinch. Be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Insights into castile soap, its history, and how Dr. B has been using it for over 30 years. Why you should not be putting essential oils in your mouth. What a dysbiosis in the mouth is and the myriad of problems it leads to. If you are in a pinch, you can use castile soap; just make sure to dilute it! How Dr. Bronner's differs from regular soap; it doesn't dry your skin out, and it's alkaline.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteFollow Dr. B on Instagram: @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter: @askthedentist Ask Dr. B a QuestionDr. Bronner'sDr. Bronner's affiliate link: https://amzn.to/36RhnNBCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

There is an apparent dearth of literature and conversation on the topic of tongue-tie surgery for adults and today's listener question asks why that is. There are a few probable and possible reasons for this, and it is very relevant to ask the question in the first place, as treatment of the condition is as important for adults as it is in younger patients. One of the main reasons might be simple human bias, as well as the different approaches of parents and independent adults towards pursuing surgery. Parents to children suffering from tongue-tie are more likely to agree to surgery more quickly, while an adult considering treatment for themselves, might delay for a number of reasons, including issues around medical insurance and work commitments. To round off our exploration of this question, Dr. B reminds us of the problems that can result from untreated tongue-tie, as well as the high numbers of individuals who are affected.Key Points From This Episode:Today's question: Why isn't tongue-tie release surgery for adults talked about more?The biased emphasis on tongue-tie treatment for children. Some of the possible reasons for the lack of literature focussing on this surgery for adults. The high numbers of people affected by tongue-tie symptoms.Taking the steps towards surgery and why these are more direct for children. The huge impact that tongue-tie can have on the path of a person's life. Later conditions and comorbidities that can result from untreated tongue-tie.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Tweetables:“Adults can benefit greatly from tongue-tie surgery.” — @askthedentist [0:01:48]“Tongue-tie has become very prevalent. 40 or 50% of the population is born with some kind of tongue-tie, and that's a huge number.” — @askthedentist [0:02:41]“The takeaway here is that tongue-tie is as important in adults as it is in infants, and we should all be looking out for it, and as patients be willing to address it.” — @askthedentist [0:04:05]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you have ever been in a situation where your partner or a friend, who is not as careful with their oral health as you are, comes back with a clean report while you're struggling with cavities,  you know how frustrating this can be. So, why do some people get more plaque than others? It is a question that confuses dentists, especially when those who are not as diligent seem to get away with murder. In this episode, Dr. B talks about why we should not disinfect the mouth but,  instead, feed and nourish the oral microbiome, which is the pillar of good oral health. We also hear about epigenetics and how this contributes to plaque buildup. Even if you are healthy in most ways, there is likely something you are doing or consuming which is contributing to your levels of plaque, so it is vital to find a dentist that will help you dig deep to get to the bottom of this issue!  Key Points From This Episode:  A listener question asking why some of us develop plaque more easily than others. It all comes back to the oral microbiome; which is the pillar of oral health. Why the use of lemon oil and tea tree oil is not recommended. How epigenetics might be contributing to someone's plaque levels. A look at nighttime mouth-breathing and why this might contribute to issues.Some differences that account for why some people can get away with more than others.People think they eat well without realizing that a certain food is harming their oral biome.The importance of seeing a dentist who can address everything for you.  How to Submit Your Question:  Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Tweetables:  “Disinfecting the mouth is not a good way to go. It's really about nourishing the mouth, keeping it  healthy.” — @askthedentist [0:04:58]  “Just because you're flossing and brushing and eating well does not guarantee that you will not  get cavities.” — @askthedentist [0:07:56]  “There's a disconnect on many different levels and you may think you're doing everything  correctly but there's something you're not aware of that's making you that person that does have  the dental issues.” — @askthedentist [0:11:15]  Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Grinding your teeth at night, or sleep bruxism, is a common problem, and dentists have typically taken a teeth-protection first approach through night guards or TMJ splints. As research emerges around the topic of sleep bruxism, findings show that there is a link between sleep and nighttime grinding. In today's episode, Dr. B talks about why it is crucial to differentiate between daytime and nighttime grinding. Often healthy people are told that they do not have sleep disorders, something Dr. B and his wife experienced firsthand, so you have to advocate for your health and find a functional dentist who takes an airway-centric approach and helps you conduct a sleep study. Dr. B breaks down some of the sleep study details and makes a case for treating the root cause of sleep bruxism rather than the symptom.  Key Points From This Episode:A listener question asking for advice on how to stop nighttime teeth grinding. Why there is a differentiation between sleep bruxism and daytime bruxism. How dentists have typically approached sleep bruxism treatments. Why you should not get a night guard to prevent sleep bruxism. The importance of doing a sleep study to rule out a sleep disorder. Some of the benefits of treating the root cause of your sleep bruxism. Being healthy with no comorbidities does not mean you do not have a sleep disorder. Ways to track your sleep and how the information can help you. Night guards can alter your bite in a way that worsens your sleep.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistTweetables:“The reason we grind at night is different than the reason we grind in the day.” — @askthedentist [0:02:13]“I would definitely recommend dealing with the sleep issue first and that will help you with not grinding anymore and protecting your teeth.” — @askthedentist [0:09:18]“If your dentist jumps right on the bandwagon and wants to protect your teeth, be wary of that because he or she is not considering the root cause of what is causing you to grind at night and they could actually make it worse by trying to help you.” — @askthedentist [0:10:27]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryThe 8-Hour Sleep ParadoxOura RingCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

There is a rising body of knowledge about the importance of the oral microbiome for the maintenance of oral health, but we are still a long way off from understanding things in their entirety. Today on the show, we answer a listener question about how to maintain an optimal state in the oral microbiome! Dr. B gets into some habits revolving around diet, brushing, flossing, and even taping the mouth shut while we sleep. In his explanations, he elaborates on the role that plaque plays in keeping the oral microbiome healthy, the harmful effects of modern toothpaste, and the connection between the microbiome's health and overall wellbeing. He also talks about which kinds of dentists to see if you would like to get reliable information about the oral microbiome because not all dentists are trained or even aware of this topic that is so central to their craft! Tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Growing recognition about the importance of the oral microbiome.A listener question about how to keep the oral microbiome in an optimum state.The link between the oral and gut microbiome and what foods to avoid eating.Different colonies of biomes that exist in different areas of the mouth.The importance of the biofilm or plaque for protecting the teeth.Taping the mouth when sleeping because of how much an open mouth can affect the biome.Why the paleo diet is so helpful for keeping the oral microbiome balanced.The role genetics can play in people having different experiences with their microbiome.All the threatening chemicals that are in fluoridated toothpaste like emulsifiers and surfactants.Which types of dentists to see who will be qualified to advise about the oral microbiome.Where we are in our efforts to measure the health of microbiomes.Everybody has a unique microbiome, making testing and diagnosis difficult.How to still get hydroxyapatite if you stop using toothpaste.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistTweetables:“These orifices that aren’t closed most of the time, or sealed up, like the nose and the mouth, they need protection. They need a very active biome and immune function.” — @askthedentist [0:05:52]“Everyone is unique when it comes to their biome.” — @askthedentist [0:11:25]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryThe Dental DietThe Dental Diet affiliate link: https://amzn.to/2QybsFoCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Today on the show Dr. B gets a question from a listener about whether it is necessary to do surgery on a one-year-old due to the formation of their frenum attachment. The frenum, in simple terms, is the web-like skin tag that connects the upper lip to the upper gum. Dr. B busts a few myths about the frenum attachment to the upper gum and the role this plays in causing gaps in teeth. He talks about the fact that gaps in teeth in young children are normal and also makes sure to suggest which types of associated conditions related to the frenum attachment are cause for concern. Tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:A question about whether it is necessary to intervene in a diastema in a one-year-old.Whether a piece of skin joining the upper lip to the gums will cause a gap tooth.It is typical to expect spaces between teeth in children around the age of one.Issues that can become serious because of a frenum tie.When to see a specialist who deals with lip and tongue ties.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistTweetables:“If the frenum attaches too low to the edge of the gums close to the teeth, the thinking is, and again this is a bit of a myth, that that could cause separation of those two teeth, otherwise known as a diastema.” — @askthedentist [0:01:30]“The space that you are seeing between E and F now is probably a good thing.” — @askthedentist [0:01:30]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Welcome to the first episode of Ask the Dentist, hosted by Dr. Mark Burhenne. The premise of this show is the same as that of askthedentist.com: to help patients inform themselves so that they can play an active role in the maintenance of their oral health. This podcast will also introduce you to the concept of functional dentistry, which is a root cause and integrative approach to treating dental symptoms and aims to bridge the gap between physicians and dentists. Our host will use each episode to dive deep into a listener question with a well-rounded and actionable discussion. For today’s show, Dr. B talks about tooth fractures, the different types of tooth fractures, and what to do about them. So tune in today and be sure to listen in on future episodes so that you can continue to empower yourself and know what to ask as well as what to expect the next time you find yourself in the chair! Dr. B of course can’t give medical or dental advice on this show, but he can share pointers on how to interact with your own dentist.Key Points From This Episode:The main aim of this podcast, to help our listeners play an active role in their dental healthSome of the pointers you will hear on this show, such as how to interact with your dentistSupport we offer at askthedentist.com about functionally-minded dentists to visitThe problem of physicians and dentists practicing in separate lanesA question from a listener about how Dr. B would treat a tooth with a small fractureThe likelihood that the listener’s issue is a ‘craze line,’ and what this meansHow to tell if a crack in your tooth is a craze line and what to do about itPossible causes of craze lines such as grinding, accidents, and moreThe structure of the tooth and how this plays into their tendency to crackApproaches dentists use to assess a crack in a toothHow a crack can get more severe and the value of treating it before this happensHow to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Tweetables:“Listeners will be able to ask me questions they have about oral health and I’ll use each episode as an opportunity to dive into a well-rounded discussion that can lead to actionable solutions.” — @askthedentist [0:00:42]“Oral health affects systemic health. It is all connected.” — @askthedentist [0:01:11]“Most of us will get craze lines, not to worry, but if you get a fracture, definitely act on it right away.” — @askthedentist [0:08:50]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionCheck out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.comSubscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter