Exploring the Oral Microbiome: Testing and Health Implications

What if your bleeding gums could be the reason you can’t get pregnant—or why your brain is at risk of Alzheimer’s?

In this groundbreaking conversation with functional dentist Dr. Staci Whitman, we uncover how your oral microbiome impacts far more than just your smile. From fertility struggles and pregnancy loss to Alzheimer’s, cancer, and even depression, the bacteria in your mouth may be silently shaping your entire health span. Dr. Whitman breaks down the science of “leaky gums,” reveals why saliva is the body’s golden elixir, and explains how simple shifts in diet, hygiene, and oral microbiome testing could change the future of medicine. This is not just about teeth—it’s about your brain, hormones, longevity, and life itself.About Dr. Staci Whitman:

Dr. Staci Whitman is a board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of NoPo Kids Dentistry in Portland, Oregon, where she practices a whole-body, functional approach to children’s oral health. A graduate of Tufts University and OHSU, she has specialized expertise in sleep, airway health, and myofunctional therapy. Dr. Staci is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a Breathe Institute Ambassador, and an active member of several holistic and biological dentistry organizations. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to create a world without cavities and to empower families with practical, science-backed tools for lifelong health.

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I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — Alzheimer’s prevention specialist — founder of Neuro Athletics.

My mission is to translate cutting-edge neuroscience into actionable strategies for cognitive longevity, peak performance, and brain disease prevention.

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Topics discussed:

00:00:00 Oral health, gum disease & fertility connection

00:02:46 Inflammation & systemic effects

00:06:00 Defining true oral health (nutrition, saliva, airway)

00:08:25 Diet, processed foods & cavities

00:15:00 Saliva, dry mouth & gut health

00:19:49 Oral microbiome testing & treatments

00:24:17 Treatment plan, family transmission & genetics

00:26:30 Alzheimer’s, brain health & strokes

00:33:07 Oral health & cancer links

00:41:50 Inflammation causing pancreatic cancer

00:42:27 Failing dental work and cancer

00:43:37 Fertility & Menopause

00:46:31 Spit test & depression/mood disorders

00:48:39 Oral health toolkit & practical hygiene tips

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