I want to stay within my role as a dentist, but before getting into this week’s newsletter I need to acknowledge the situation in Ukraine. I stand with the people of Ukraine, and many of my patients who have family there are on my mind every day.
It’s natural to respond to that worry by consuming more news and social media. Anxiety and fear are important survival mechanisms we inherited from our ancestors. In our modern world, though, it’s worth asking whether these responses are adaptive or maladaptive.
When you feel a wave of fear or anxiety, what is your first instinct? Do you reach for your phone and start doomscrolling? Try observing how you react to these feelings. Which behaviors help you, and which make things worse? Although we’ve inherited these survival instincts, we can choose how to respond to them.
Personally, I’ve committed to a phone-free walk with my wife each morning this week, and I’m calling a few friends to check in. I’ve also made a donation to support Ukrainian children living near the frontline right now. I encourage everyone to prioritize rest and human connection where possible.
🦷 Study on the pH of whitening products
Practitioners should measure the pH of products used in practice so you understand what may cause sensitivity and when to rinse, rest, or remineralize after treatments. A study measured the pH of 26 commercially available tooth-whitening products and found a range from highly acidic (pH 3.67) to highly basic (pH 11.13). It’s useful information when considering patient comfort and enamel health.
Non-practitioners can do this too. Start with pH test strips and follow straightforward testing methods to check products you use at home. Understanding pH helps you make safer choices for teeth whitening and oral care.
🎧 Episode #50: Keep or Remove My Permanent Retainer?
Listen to this week’s podcast episode to learn:
- Why there is no such thing as a permanent fix in dentistry
- What I’ve observed in patients with fixed retainers regarding gum disease, recession, and bone loss
- Why I’m not concerned about the metal content of fixed retainers
- What to do if you already have a fixed retainer
- How maxillary expansion in children can reduce the future need for retainers
If you find the podcast helpful, please leave a review to help spread the word about the oral-systemic connection.
Have a question for me? You can submit it through my usual contact channel.
A few other projects I’m working on:
🎓 Masterclass for Dr. Mark Hyman
I’ve been finalizing a Functional Dentistry Deep Dive masterclass for the Hyman+ community and look forward to sharing details soon.
🎤 Interview on The Wellness Mama Podcast
I just finished a call with Katie from The Wellness Mama about functional dentistry. I’m excited to share that episode when it goes live.
Have a great week,
P.S. Today is the LAST DAY for dentists to save 15% on an annual Functional Dentist Directory membership. Click here to join — savings end at midnight.