How To Stop Cavities, Gum Recession & Snoring To Increase Your Lifespan | Mark Burhenne

Summary

In this enlightening discussion, the importance of oral health is underscored, with a spotlight on the impact of diet and hygiene practices on dental health. The conversation delves into the significance of balancing demineralization and remineralization, the role of the oral microbiome, and the pitfalls of traditional dental advice. It challenges common misconceptions about dental care, such as the overemphasis on brushing and flossing, and highlights emerging insights from functional dentistry, including the use of hydroxyapatite and the potential risks associated with fluoride and certain mouthwashes.

Takeaways

• 🦷 The balance between demineralization and remineralization in the mouth is crucial for dental health, and a pH imbalance can lead to tooth decay.
• 😟 Traditional dental advice like brushing twice daily and flossing may not address newer understandings of oral health, including the importance of the oral microbiome.
• 🍽 Diet plays a significant role in dental health; the consumption of certain foods like crackers and bread can contribute to plaque formation and tooth decay.
• 🌱 The shift to a Western diet and the Neolithic era's food processing are linked to the increase in dental cavities, highlighting the impact of diet on oral health.
• 👶 Early childhood dental habits and diet can set the stage for lifelong oral health, with the potential to affect bone and teeth development.
• 🍏 Acidic foods like tomatoes can affect tooth enamel, but the overall diet and oral pH management are more critical factors in dental health.
• 🚫 Certain mouthwashes may contain ingredients that are harmful to the oral microbiome and have been linked to systemic health issues like high blood pressure and diabetes.
• 🍋 While chewing on limes or lemons can be harmful due to their acidity, maintaining proper oral pH and remineralizing practices can mitigate the effects.
• 🪥 Flossing is essential for removing debris between teeth and supporting gum health, but the method and type of floss used can impact effectiveness.
• 👨‍⚕️ The role of a dentist extends beyond traditional procedures to include recognizing and addressing systemic health issues related to oral health.
• 🌿 Natural alternatives like hydroxyapatite in toothpaste can offer remineralizing benefits and are a safer choice compared to fluoride.

Q & A

What is the main issue with the pH level in our mouth?

The main issue is that if the pH level gets too low, below 5.5, teeth can start to demineralize. If the mouth doesn't have enough saliva to maintain a proper pH level, teeth can dissolve, and the balance between demineralization and remineralization is disrupted.

Why is dental plaque, now often referred to as biofilm, important for teeth?

Biofilm is important because it covers the tooth and is composed of oral bacteria, enzymes, and proteins that help remineralize and protect the teeth, preventing sensitivity and aiding in the overall health of the mouth.

What is the impact of diet on dental health?

Diet has a significant impact on dental health. Consuming cariogenic foods, such as those high in sugar or acid, can lead to tooth decay. On the other hand, a diet with a focus on vegetables and proteins, possibly following a paleolithic diet, can help prevent dental issues.

Why are some people skeptical about the benefits of fluoride?

Some people are skeptical about fluoride due to studies suggesting it may have negative health effects, including potential harm to the developing brain, and the fact that it is a byproduct of aluminum smelting and fertilizer production.

What is the controversy surrounding root canals?

The controversy lies in the belief that root canals may not be done properly in many cases, potentially leading to bacterial leakage and serious health issues, including sepsis. However, when done correctly by a specialist, root canals can be a viable treatment for infected teeth.

How does mouth breathing affect dental health?

Mouth breathing can lead to a dry mouth, which can disrupt the oral microbiome and pH balance. This can result in increased plaque and tartar buildup, potentially leading to gum disease and other oral health problems.

What is the connection between oral health and systemic health?

Oral health is connected to systemic health through the oral microbiome, which can influence the body's overall health. Conditions like gum disease have been linked to other health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Why is it recommended to floss before brushing with certain toothpastes?

Flossing before brushing with toothpastes containing certain therapeutic ingredients, like calcium or fluoride, can help clear away debris and make room for the toothpaste to work effectively on the teeth, promoting remineralization.

What are some common misconceptions about dental health?

Common misconceptions include the belief that brushing and flossing are the most important aspects of dental care, when in fact diet plays a much larger role. Another misconception is that fluoride is universally beneficial, despite evidence suggesting potential health risks.

How can the use of mouthwash potentially impact health negatively?

Mouthwash can potentially harm health by disrupting the oral microbiome, leading to a decrease in beneficial bacteria that produce nitric oxide, which is linked to various health issues including high blood pressure and diabetes.

What is the significance of the oral microbiome in overall health?

The oral microbiome is significant in overall health as it is the second most diverse microbiome in the body and plays a role in filtering and sampling the environment. It is connected to the gut microbiome and can influence systemic health.