You have probably heard it from family, friends, partners, and your doctor: you need to quit smoking. Everyone talks about the damage smoking does to the lungs and heart, but its effects on oral health are less often emphasized. A healthy smile requires brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups — yet these routines can’t fully … Read more

You likely already check your cholesterol and blood pressure—these numbers help predict your current and future health. But there’s another vital measure you should monitor throughout life that is often overlooked. Sleep: Innate But Not Guaranteed Sleep influences nearly every aspect of health. When we lose sleep, the effects show up quickly: lower energy, mood … Read more

Have you ever wondered why so many people struggle with oral health—braces, frequent cleanings, cavities, fillings? It can feel like the mouth is one of the highest-maintenance parts of the body. In 1925, a dentist who felt the same way decided to investigate. His practice was overwhelmed with dental problems, and he suspected that something … Read more

Q I have to get my upper left wisdom tooth removed. Should I get the needle or go to sleep? What should I be aware of? A Here is a concise summary I share with patients who ask this common question. Having both had my wisdom teeth removed and performed extractions myself, I can outline … Read more

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about 90 million Americans snore. While it may seem like a minor annoyance, snoring can indicate more serious health issues. Numerous studies show that poor sleep quality negatively affects many aspects of health, from weight gain to impaired cognitive function. Snoring is often the most obvious sign that your … Read more

If you’re dealing with receding gums and nothing you’ve tried seems to help, this article is for you. You may have heard your dentist say, “Some people are just prone to it,” or “It’s genetic,” or “You’re getting older—this is normal.” Those statements can feel dismissive. While gum tissue does not generally grow back on … Read more

Welcome to this week’s edition of Mondays with Mark. Here’s what’s new this week… 1. Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: which is more important? 🍌 Prebiotics deserve far more attention than they get. They play a decisive role in both oral and gut microbiome health. Think of prebiotics as the fertilizer for a garden: without them, beneficial … Read more

Q Is it appropriate for a dentist to do routine bitewing x-rays on kids solely based on their age or stage of dental development? I just did a ton of Googling and I’m beginning to conclude the recommendation was out of line. While at the dentist yesterday I delayed, saying I wanted to learn more. … Read more

I’ve said it many times—I’m a big fan of high-quality teas like matcha. I travel with these tea packets so I always have green tea on hand. People often ask two questions: What does matcha or other teas have to do with dental health? How can I tell if the matcha I buy is high … Read more

Q Dr. Burhenne, how bad is not flossing? I brush twice a day, my gums don’t bleed, and my teeth are healthy. I haven’t flossed for years now and I still have my teeth and no pain. How bad is it really? A Many people wonder whether flossing is necessary, especially when there’s no visible … Read more