610: Functional Dentist Dispels the Myths About Oral Health | Dr. Mark Burhenne
Jul 23, 2024
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Dr. Mark Burhenne, a functional dentist, debunks oral health myths, advocates for healthier snacks like meat sticks, explores xylitol benefits for oral and gut health, discusses vitamin D and K synergy, suggests oral microbiome-friendly products, introduces innovative dental tools, and discusses safe dental fillings and surgical procedures.
Choose appropriate dental materials like zirconia or gold for oral health longevity.
Prevent gum recession through good hygiene and early intervention to avoid regrowth challenges.
Manage tooth sensitivity with proper care, treatments, and addressing underlying causes effectively.
Maintain optimal oral hygiene practices to prevent issues and protect against oral health challenges.
Deep dives
Understanding Dental Materials
Dental materials like metal fillings, zirconia, gold, and ceramics serve different purposes in oral health care. Zirconia is strong and commonly used for crowns and implants but can wear differently than enamel. Gold, although expensive, is biocompatible and long-lasting, making it a conservative restoration choice. Proper removal and replacement of toxic materials like metal fillings with safe alternatives such as resin fillings or high-quality gold is advisable to prevent further harm.
Addressing Gum Recession
Gum recession often stems from gum disease, inflammation, aggressive brushing, genetic predispositions, and other factors. Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity and aesthetic concerns. While various grafting techniques and surgeries exist to treat gum recession, prevention through good oral hygiene and avoiding contributing factors is key. Complete gum regrowth is challenging once recession occurs, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and preventive measures.
Dealing with Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity related to gum recession is a common issue caused by exposed roots and porous tooth structure. Sensitivity can result from factors like recession, enamel loss, or inflammation. Preventive measures include proper brushing techniques, selecting appropriate toothpaste for sensitivity, and addressing underlying causes like recession. Professional advice and treatment may help manage tooth sensitivity effectively.
Optimizing Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is crucial for preventing issues like gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and dental material-related concerns. Consistent brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups contribute to overall oral health. Avoiding abrasive brushing, overconsumption of acidic foods, and using oral care products with harmful chemicals can help protect against oral health challenges.
Importance of Preventative Care for Gum Recession
Preventing gum recession is crucial as the tissue does not regrow naturally. Surgery is often necessary to address significant recession, which may not fully restore aesthetics. Maintaining attached gingiva above 3 millimeters is essential to prevent tissue retraction, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.
Nano Hydroxyapatite for Dental Sensitivity
Nano hydroxyapatite is effective in treating dental sensitivity by blocking tubule decalcifications and fortifying tooth enamel. Unlike traditional methods like fluoride, nano hydroxyapatite mimics natural tooth composition, providing effective and lasting relief without the risk of tubule leaching. Proper maintenance with this compound helps prevent dentin exposure and maintains overall oral health.
Balancing Risks and Benefits of Root Canals
Root canals, though feared, are essential for preserving teeth and overall health. While some advocate against them, proper root canal procedures remove infection and prevent recontamination. Monitoring with tests like CRP can assess inflammatory response and ensure successful treatment. Choosing skilled practitioners and regular monitoring are key to avoiding potential complications and ensuring lasting dental health.
Dr. Mark Burhenne is a bestselling author. He’s a family and sleep medicine dentist who has been in private practice nearly 35 years. Dr. B has focused on patient-centered and preventative dental healthcare.
He is the creator of Ask the Dentist, which is dedicated to exploring the mouth-body connection and the role of the oral microbiome. Dr. B is also the creator of FYGG.
