Gum disease is one of the most common conditions worldwide — around 60% of people are affected. When did we start accepting this as normal? This level of illness shouldn’t be considered ordinary. If heart disease or diabetes affected this many people, we would demand change. Yet gum disease remains widespread. Many treat gum disease … Read more

We’re fortunate to have the makers of my favorite magnesium sponsoring this newsletter. I’ve trusted their product for nearly two decades because it delivers high-quality magnesium without fillers or toxins, offering seven forms for optimal absorption. I just restocked during their best sale of the year. Use code ASKTHEDENTIST to save 20%! Twenty years ago, … Read more

You’ve likely heard dentists stress flossing and brushing to control biofilm and plaque. While those habits matter, the foods you eat play a major role in oral health—often more than you might expect. Below are dietary suggestions from Dr. Axe that support strong teeth and healthy gums. —Dr. B You probably already avoid obvious culprits … Read more

When was the last time your dentist asked about your gut health? If you cannot remember, you are not alone. Gut health is rarely discussed in dental visits, even though the mouth often reflects what is happening deeper in the body. While many people associate gut issues with gas, bloating, or indigestion, disturbances in the … Read more

I’m a strong proponent of using oral care products that are safe, effective, and supportive of overall health. Sometimes the best option is to make a simple solution at home. Below is an easy, inexpensive DIY retainer cleaner that effectively cleans retainers without exposing you to harsh chemicals or known allergens. Many popular effervescent retainer-cleaning … Read more

Most people assume cravings come down to willpower. But sometimes cravings reflect missing minerals. In this article I’ll explain why saliva is more than just spit, why electrolytes are crucial for oral health, and how protein plus minerals can reduce cravings by giving your body what it needs. I periodically tighten up my diet—not extreme … Read more

Oral appliances treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by gently holding the lower jaw and tongue forward during sleep. By preventing the tongue and soft tissues from collapsing into the airway, these devices help maintain unobstructed breathing throughout the night and support better sleep quality. What is an oral appliance? An oral appliance is a dental … Read more

A reader recently asked me: “If Europe doesn’t fluoridate its water, why do they still have lower cavity rates than the U.S.?” It’s a thoughtful question—and the answer has become national news. In September 2024, a U.S. federal court ruled that the chemicals used to fluoridate public water supplies pose an unreasonable risk to human … Read more

Welcome to this week’s edition of Mondays with Mark. Here’s what’s new this week. 1. Fluoride vs. Hydroxyapatite 🥊 I recently published a detailed comparison: Hydroxyapatite vs. Fluoride: How Do They Compare?. In a recent interview for the Broken Brain podcast I discussed how children today face exposure to many environmental toxins—lead, mercury, arsenic, air … Read more

I used to assume that feeling exhausted after eight hours of sleep was just part of getting older. It wasn’t. Once I understood what was really happening, everything changed. Picture this: you wake up refreshed, mentally alert, and physically recovered after workouts. No dragging through the day, no mid-afternoon slump, no brain fog. Fast forward … Read more