According to conventional dentistry, cavities are typically treated one way: drill and fill. But teeth are capable of natural repair. With proper care and the right conditions, tooth enamel can regain minerals and resist or even reverse early decay, which is why many people keep their natural teeth for life when they prioritize oral … Read more

Q Dear Dr. B, I just started a ten day round of antibiotics while waiting two weeks for an extraction on a molar that has had a crown and root canal but is still painful. As I have mitral valve prolapse, I am wondering if the antibiotics will keep my heart safe. I just can’t … Read more

If you’re taking Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound, there’s an important oral-health concern many prescribers don’t always explain: these GLP-1 medications can seriously affect your mouth. You may have noticed symptoms already. Because prevention is far better than costly dental repairs, here’s what’s happening and practical steps you can take now to protect your teeth … Read more

Q My son’s adult teeth are coming in, but the baby teeth aren’t falling out! He now has two rows of teeth on the bottom. What can be done about this? Is this an emergency or can I wait until his next dental check-up, which is several months away? A This situation is very common. … Read more

Q I’ve heard that cigars are better than cigarettes because you don’t inhale. Is this true? – Jonathan S. from Sunnyvale, California A There is a lot of public awareness about the risks of cigarettes, but far less about the risks associated with cigars. Efforts to remove the “cool” image of cigarettes have reduced their … Read more

So your dentist has recommended wisdom teeth removal and you’re feeling nervous. This guide explains what to ask, what to expect during the procedure, how recovery usually goes, and practical steps to speed healing so you can feel prepared and confident before surgery. By the end of this post, you’ll know: What to ask your … Read more

This newsletter is brought to you by our sponsor, BIOptimizers (makers of my all-time favorite magnesium supplement) As a dentist, you might expect me to worry mostly about cavities on Halloween. In reality, my bigger concern is how celebrating with an emphasis on candy can teach children an unhealthy relationship with food and contribute to … Read more

When people think about improving their health, dental care is often an afterthought. Many treat teeth like nails or hair—something cosmetic rather than essential. Yet oral health plays a central role in overall well-being, affecting systems throughout the body. Even a seemingly minor issue like a cavity can influence heart health, the microbiome, and brain … Read more

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can actually reverse a cavity, the short answer is: sometimes. Small, early-stage cavities can be halted and even remineralized if you support the body’s natural defenses—saliva, remineralization mechanisms, and a balanced oral microbiome. Reversing a cavity isn’t about brushing harder or scheduling more cleanings alone. It’s about creating the … Read more

A patient came to see me many years ago—let’s call her Carol. She was 58, took excellent care of her teeth, and had been on a statin for five years. “Dr. B, I don’t understand,” she said, clearly frustrated. “I brush twice a day. I floss every night. I even use that electric toothbrush you … Read more