A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology identified a notable link between periodontitis (gum disease) and severe COVID-19 outcomes. By analysing more than 500 COVID-19 patients, researchers found that those with periodontitis faced significantly higher risks of ICU admission, need for ventilatory support, and death compared with patients without gum disease. Why researchers … Read more

Light-activated therapies have been used in medicine for decades, and one targeted approach—photodisinfection therapy—is gaining attention in dentistry for treating progressive gum disease (periodontitis). This form of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy can selectively eliminate harmful, inflammation-causing bacteria beneath the gumline without contributing to antibiotic resistance, offering a useful adjunct to conventional periodontal care. Below is an … Read more

A recent peer-reviewed study confirms what functional dentists have observed for years: Oral inflammation does not remain confined to the mouth. It spreads. The sulcular epithelium that separates the gums from the underlying, capillary-rich connective tissue is extremely thin—under 0.3 mm in healthy gums. When inflammation is present, this barrier becomes more permeable, allowing oral … Read more

Watching my daughters hunt for eggs on Easter morning are some of my fondest memories as a father. But every year when I walk into the grocery store around Easter I’m struck by how much promotes sugary, low-quality treats. Easter candy has become a major marketing event, and the cost is often our children’s long-term … Read more

I have a major announcement coming this Friday, December 15. I can’t share the details yet, but you’ll be the first to know. Please join me for an Instagram Live at 11:30 am Pacific on Friday, December 15 for the reveal. Now, two new studies have sparked an intriguing idea: what if your oral care … Read more

Last week our podcast reached 100,000 downloads — a meaningful milestone and clear proof of growing interest in functional dentistry. Thank you for listening and for sending your questions. If you haven’t subscribed yet, visit askthedentist.com/podcast to subscribe. Today I want to address the connection between mouthwash use and high blood pressure. Although this has … Read more

Ever dreamed of chipping, cracking, or losing a tooth? You’re not alone — worries about damaged teeth are among the most common unsettling dreams worldwide. In fact, nearly 40% of people surveyed reported experiencing dreams about losing teeth, and when a tooth is actually damaged in real life, it can be genuinely upsetting. Fortunately, a … Read more

Toothache pain ranges from a mild nuisance to a severe disruption of daily life. While only a dentist can diagnose and treat serious dental problems, there are safe home remedies you can try for temporary relief until you can get professional care. The most effective remedy depends on the cause. For example, exposed nerve pain … Read more

Let’s face it: some of the most popular and enjoyable beverages can also be hard on your teeth. If your day includes morning coffee, a glass of red wine at night, and kombucha or tea in between, you expose your enamel repeatedly to acidic drinks. Over time, that acid erodes enamel, increasing the risk of … Read more

Have you ever stopped to consider whether the dental floss you use is safe? Flossing is a vital part of oral hygiene, yet not all floss is created equal. Some manufacturers add ingredients that make floss easier to use or marketable—but those additives can carry risks. Is dental floss toxic? In some cases, yes—certain flosses … Read more