While many of us have experienced tooth pain, it seldom becomes fatal. This was not the case in the past, and world history would probably be vastly different if we had 21st-century dental care readily accessible across the ages. Welcome back to Ask the Dentist podcast, where today we ask Dr. Burhenne “what fixes pulpitis”? Tune in to find out what pulpitis is, why the pulp of the tooth is so important, and how it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Find out the difference between reversible and irreversible pulpitis (and how a crown can help either situation), and how to manage acute pulpitis. From a basic anatomy lesson on what teeth are made of and how they are formed, to a simple explanation of why tooth pain is something you don’t want to leave unchecked, don’t miss out on this fascinating episode! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to today’s question: what fixes pulpitis? Diving back into dental school, the textbooks Dr. B kept Find out about the anatomy of a tooth, from pulp to dentin What the pulp consists of: nerves, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and odontoblasts How a tooth is formed (dentinogenesis) The role of the pulp in repairing certain types of tooth damage What happens to the pulp as you age The function of the pulp: sensation, nutrition, infection prevention, and possibly even balance! How pulpitis occurs; how it causes tooth pain and why it can result in tooth death The difference between reversible and irreversible pulpitis Why you should never wait to get tooth pain treated How a crown can prevent reversible pulpitis from becoming irreversible pulpitis Why a crown is worth having even if the issue is irreversible pulpitis How to manage acute pulpitis Dr. B’s idea for a book: how tooth pain has shaped world history How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Approximately eight percent of the annual USA dentistry budget is spent on Fluoride treatments for children. Tune in today to hear why Dr. B feels this isn't worth the cost, and what you can do to avoid your kid needing one! We hear what fluoride is, what products it's found in, and how we are exposed to it daily. Find out how it causes fluorosis, and how you can raise kids without exposing them to it. Dr. B also discusses two of his favorite studies that show that fluoride is absorbed through the mucous membranes and that "F" treatments are not cost-effective prevention methods. We learn what the future of dentistry holds and what “F” treatments will hopefully be replaced with. Discover why functional dentists are the key to managing your dental health without fluoride, and where you can find one today!Key Points From This Episode: How you can give Dr. B some constructive feedback on his Ask the Dentist podcast Today’s question: What are your thoughts on the “F” treatment for a 28-month-old? What the “F” treatment is: The fluoride treatment Why Dr. B doesn’t believe you should do the “F” treatment What fluoride is, and why it’s in our water How toothpaste can cause fluorosis The absorption of fluoride and how even showering in fluoridated water is a risk A study Dr. B recommends that showed “F” treatments were not cost-effective at preventing cavities Why choosing a functional dentist is the best preventative measure against cavities  How the dynamic nature of the tooth means you can influence its health Dr. B’s recommended toothpaste: Boka Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste Why the field of dentistry needs a hydroxyapatite-based tooth varnish Why it doesn’t matter how much hydroxyapatite is in your system Raising your kids without fluoride: filtering water and changing toothpaste How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Email Dr. B your feedback at mark@askthedentist.comThe Dhru Purohit Podcast #207: The Dangers of Fluoride on the Brain and IQ with Dr. Mark BurhenneThe Fluoride Action NetworkAbsorption of fluoride through the oral mucosa of ratsCost-effectiveness analysis of two caries prevention methods in the first permanent molar in childrenProfessionally Applied Topical Fluoride and Restorative Care in Insured ChildrenBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk DCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

If you could raise your kid’s IQ by a couple of points, would you? In this episode, Dr. B reflects on how humanity is so focused on changing the future that we don’t consider how modifying our past and present behavior might have the same outcome. By using a hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste, you can prevent neurotoxicity in your kid, raising their IQ by the same number of points that gene therapy would lead to. However, using the right tools and products is no use if your protocol is wrong. Today, Dr. B addresses the question of whether to rinse or spit after brushing. The short answer is to spit but not rinse, however, there are a few caveats based on the time of day and the toothpaste you are using. Tune in to find out how hydroxyapatite toothpaste works on a molecular level, why saliva is useful when brushing, and how long to leave your toothpaste in your mouth. Don't miss out on this important information!Key Points From This Episode: How an article about reproductive technology got Dr. B thinking about raising your child’s IQ. The impact of fluoride on the developing brain. Why dentists don’t give enough information about brushing. Today’s topic: “Do you suggest rinsing out your mouth with water after brushing your teeth using Boka toothpaste?” Why we don’t get the benefits of brushing if our techniques are bad. The molecular mechanism underlying hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Why people under the age of 20 should not swallow fluoride-based toothpaste.  How to brush using hydroxyapatite toothpaste: don’t rinse with water. Why NASA developed hydroxyapatite toothpaste. When to wet your toothbrush. The difference in tooth structure from fluoride- or hydroxyapatite-based repair. Timing when brushing your teeth: leaving hydroxyapatite in saliva for 30 minutes. What Dr. B wishes he’d learned in dental school, and why clinical practice lags behind science. How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Wall Street Journal: Imagine a Future Without SexBoka Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteRiseWell Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteAsk the Dentist: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best BrandsAsk the Dentist: Collected Articles on Hydroxyapatite ToothpasteClinpro 5000 ToothpasteAsk the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Forming good dental habits with kids can be like pulling teeth. To address this issue, today Dr. B answers the question, "What's a good protocol, products, and tools for kids aged four-12?" Surprisingly, the products and tools are less important than the protocol, however, Dr. B still gives some good recommendations for all three! Tune in to hear why you should be using Myotape if your kid is mouth breathing, and what products to buy to ensure that if they need to brush at school, it is as easy as possible. From throwing out your mouthwash to which toothpaste to use, this episode has it all! Join us as we hear why the protocol is more important than both the products and the tools used, and what this encompasses. From diet to timing to technique, Dr. B provides a wealth of advice and practical tips that you can put into use today. You don’t want to miss this entertaining episode filled with tips to help you give your kid a healthier smile. Key Points From This Episode: Brushing your kid's teeth: "What's a good protocol, products, and tools for kids aged four-12?" Why Dr. B will split his advice from kids aged four to eight-year-olds, and eight to 12 year-olds Why protocol is more important than the products or tools used Breaking down the products: throw out your mouthwash and fluoride-based toothpaste and buy hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste instead Find out which toothpaste brands will make the difference Why you should be using Myotape to prevent mouth breathing Protocol: from technique to timing Motivating kids to brush their teeth: modeling the behavior Why you should supervise your kid’s brushing until the age of 10 How to give your kids the power to control their teeth-cleaning behavior Discussing diet and how this affects their brushing routine Tips for how and when a kid should brush at school Two things Dr. B feels you should read about: the dental diet and vitamin K2 Choosing a functional dentist to help your kids form good habits  How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:The Fluoride Action NetworkRisewell Toothpaste for KidsBoka Coco Ginger Flavored ToothpasteMyotape websiteThe Oxygen Advantage: Simple, Scientifically Proven Breathing Techniques to Help You Become Healthier, Slimmer, Faster, and FitterThe Breathing Cure: Develop New Habits for a Healthier, Happier, and Longer LifeClose Your Mouth:Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Most of us have been taught to brush, spit, and rinse after meals. Tune in today to find out why this is not necessarily what Dr. B recommends! From the time of day to the type of toothpaste (fluoride or hydroxyapatite-based), to your age, Dr. B explains how each of these aspects can impact your dental health. We discover the molecular mechanism underlying how fluoride remineralizes teeth and why it’s dangerous for kids to swallow, but not adults. Dr. B provides a wealth of information about the invention of the first toothbrush before World War II, when fluoride was introduced into toothpaste, and what the purpose of plaque is, as well as how the type of food we eat affects it. He also shares his daily brushing routine and what you can do to improve yours. Don’t miss out on this educational episode, and don’t forget your homework for next week!Key Points From This Episode: When to brush: Should you be rinsing after you brush your teeth, or should you be waiting after using your fluoridated toothpaste?  How the pH in your mouth is affected by the food you eat. Why fluoride should be on your teeth for as long as possible, but not in your body. Waiting 30 to 40 minutes after eating before brushing to allow for remineralization. How the biofilm is affected by brushing. The protective role of plaque and the biofilm. The impact of sugary and processed food on the biofilm. When and why the toothbrush was invented. The addition of fluoride to toothpaste and how it remineralizes teeth on a molecular level. Why children need to spit and rinse fluoride-based toothpaste, but adults do not. Why you don’t need to rinse when using hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste. How brushing straight after eating removes the calcium slurry from your teeth. Your homework for the week: Which does Dr. B do first, floss or brush? How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistLinks Mentioned in Today’s Episode:'Ask the Dentist: Boka Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste''Ask the Dentist: Should you floss before or after brushing?'Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

As the parent of a young child, there is a lot of internal and external pressure to give them the best possible start in life. But what if it’s not always clear whether something will have a positive or negative impact? Our question this week comes from Anna, a lactation consultant who is concerned over the correlation she has seen between breastfeeding moms and cavities in young children. In today’s episode, we hear from Dr. B about the benefits of breastfeeding, why it does not cause cavities, and what other factors in your child’s life might be causing cavities. We also discuss how a vaginal birth can influence a child’s oral microbiome and why infant formula is likely to cause cavities. Later, Dr. B shares how to institute positive habits that will benefit your child’s microbiome and why it's so beneficial. For all this and much more, tune in today!Key Points From This Episode: Introducing today’s topic on whether breastfeeding can cause cavities in children Why breastmilk does not cause cavities, as it is not cariogenic How your method of birth can have an impact on your child’s oral microbiome The study of breastfeeding for more than 40 days and how it affects your child The link between breastfeeding and facial development Why using formula can cause tooth decay How the condition of the mother before birth plays a role in the child’s health How a vaginal birth assists your child’s microbiome Why breastmilk is the ideal method for culturing a child’s microbiome Some of the factors that cause tooth decay in humans versus other mammals Why it’s important to minimize saliva sharing activities like sharing a toothbrush Snacks: it’s not about the quantity of the snack, but the frequency of the snack Dr. B’s advice for preventing cavities by teaching children proper oral care habits Why it’s good to take your child to see a dentist from as early as six months How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryBokaRisewellCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

One of the most flattering things is knowing that there are fellow functional dentists who listen to the show. Today's question is from an aspiring functional dentist, and Dr. B dives into the oral microbiome. We hear about an article published in the Journal of Dentistry that looked at the plaque pH of caries-free versus caries-active individuals. Despite what conventional dentistry wants us to do, we cannot isolate one bacteria as being the culprit. It is all interrelated, which is why it is so important to have a dentist who understands the oral microbiome. Tune in to hear it all! Key Points From This Episode: The oral microbiome gives you a richer, more nuanced understanding of oral health Hear about a journal article in The Journal of Dentistry It is not one bug that causes gum disease; it’s a whole host of them Corneum bacteria is responsible for some serious diseases What causes bacteria to go from commensal to pathogenic Why we need dental microbiome researchers and degrees It’s all about the oral microbiome How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryJournal of DentistryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Fillings are very common procedures and while they are preventable, they still happen. So, if you are getting a filling done, should you go with metal or plastic as your material of choice? Today, Dr. B outlines these two materials and weighs up the pros and cons of each. Even though plastic is not good for us, metal in our mouths is far worse. There are numerous side effects of metal fillings that Dr. B explains. We also hear which material he uses for fillings on his patients. Remember, there is no informed consent when it comes to choosing your filling material, so make sure you explicitly tell your dentist which one you’d prefer.Key Points From This Episode: You should always ask your dentist before they place anything in your mouth There is no informed consent when it comes to the type of material that’s used for a filling A history of metal fillings, why they are so popular, and some of the drawbacks of this material Details about plastic fillings and some of the dangers that come with them Why Dr. B thinks plastic fillings are still overall better than metal ones The material Dr. B is currently using for his fillings How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAdmira FusionAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryMercury Fillings Dangers, Who Is At Risk & Removal ChecklistCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

This week’s listener question concerns the relationship between sinus infections and tooth pain. Our skulls can often be compared to a laptop, not just because of its processing power, but also because it has so many intricate parts compressed inside a small space. For this reason, it can often be difficult to differentiate between sinus pain and tooth pain. This can lead to indecision over whether to perform a root canal as well as prolonged pain for the patient. In today’s episode, Dr. B examines the intricate relationship between sinus pain and tooth pain and suggests useful tips for determining which one is the root cause. Tune in to learn how you can tell the difference and hear why it’s important to be patient with your dentist so you can avoid an unnecessary root canal!Key Points From This Episode: The relationship between a sinus infection and tooth pain Why the skull is like a laptop: it has lots of parts compressed into a small space Why there can often be confusion over whether you might need a root canal How inflammation due to maxillary sinusitis can lead to inflammation inside the tooth Some of the methods for determining whether you have sinusitis or an infected tooth How sinusitis and tooth pain respond differently to cold water The debilitating effect that tooth pain can have on an individual Why it’s often helpful to see a specialist like an endodontist How sinus infections can lead to unnecessary root canals How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter

Geographic tongue is a common, easy-to-spot oral condition, where the tongue takes on an atlas-like appearance. There are white borders around patches on the surface of the tongue, and in some cases, the condition can be painful. So, what causes this problem? In today's episode, Dr. B gets into some of the potential factors that cause this issue and also unpacks what you can do to overcome it. Like with any medical issue, there is no silver bullet or simple solution. As such, it is important to take a holistic treatment approach rather than a palliative one. Tune in to hear it all!  Key Points From This Episode: Why the condition is called ‘geographic tongue’, and where it can appear  Some of the potential causes of geographic tongue  The age group that is most affected by this condition  If you have a geographic tongue, your dentist should be looking at a holistic solution The possible link between stress and geographic tongue  Psoriasis and geographic tongue and the link between the two conditions  Other proposed conditions that could cause geographic tongue  Dr. B’s take on some palliative home remedies that are commonly suggested to treat geographic tongue  More holistic treatments to the causes of geographic tongue  A simple solution you use do to treat dry mouth   Dr. B’s best palliative solution treatment for geographic tongue  How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the DentistAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryWhy Zebras Don't Get UlcersCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter