Ask the Dentist with Dr. Mark Burhenne

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Episode #40: Are Honey and Maple Syrup OK for My Teeth? Dec 14, 2021

Show notes

For thousands of years, humans lived relatively sugar-free, with refined sugars not yet produced. However, in today's society, much of what we consume has been processed and sweetened. In this episode, Dr. B addresses the question of whether honey and maple syrup are ok to eat, and how they impact your teeth. The short answer is "no", however, there are nuances to everything in the body, and Dr. B gives some great tips on how to consume small quantities of sugar, safely. We hear why the myriad of "health benefits" to honey so widely publicized on the internet are not all they appear to be, and how you can wean yourself off sugar. We discuss how our ancestors lived, and why eating honey was probably not as bad for them as it is for us! From intermittent fasting to eating sweet things in one go, to Dr. B's very own microbiome-friendly omelet, don’t miss out on this sweet episode!

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to the root of all evil in dentistry: processed sugars [0:00:09]
Today's question: Are honey and maple syrup considered sugar, and do they affect our oral microbiome the same way as refined sugars? [0:02:27]
How honey is produced and processed, and why it can be good for you [0:04:00]
Why sugar is bad for your teeth and how honey is slightly different from pure refined sugar [0:06:03]
Why we don’t want to disinfect the mouth: causing dysbiosis [0:07:24]
What dextran is and how honey can break it down [0:08:11]
The difference between maple syrup and honey and how maple syrup affects your mouth [0:09:01]
Dr. B’s advice for eating a healthy breakfast: the best diet for your teeth [0:11:00]
How much sugar you can eat a day, and how often [0:13:07]
Why our ancestors probably didn’t snack and what you can eat for breakfast [0:14:32]
How the oral microbiome is regulated and how sugar disrupts this [0:15:46]
Bad news for today’s questioner, Chrissy [0:16:56]
How giving up sugar changed Dr. B’s tastes and health [0:17:11]
The systemic issues with ingesting sugar [0:18:11]
Conclusion: there are no shortcuts [0:19:27]
Some tips on weaning yourself off sugar [0:20:19]
Why you should never give infants honey [0:21:02]

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. B's Microbiome Omelet

Ask the Dentist: Collected Articles about Sugar

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentist

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

Episode #39: Is Lemon Water Bad for My Teeth? Dec 07, 2021

Show notes

Flavoring water with lemon juice has become the new rage, with people doing it for several reasons; from health benefits to making drinking water more palatable. However, lemon juice is acidic, and as we know from previous episodes with Dr. B, acid attacks in the mouth are bad for enamel! Tune in today to find out how you can safely enjoy your lemon-flavored water and other acidic drinks, where you can find a pH stick to find out exactly what it is that you are drinking, and why prevention is better than cure. We dive into the history and culture of people sucking on citrus fruits, and how this impacts your teeth. We also hear how other health conditions affect your enamel and are reminded how acid attacks work. Finally, Dr. B talks us through his feelings towards the coming winter. Press play now to find out more!

Key Points From This Episode:

What the Fall season means to Dr. B [0:00:10]
An overview of today’s topic: “Is it okay to drink lemon water all day long?” [0:04:00]
Why we drink lemon juice in the morning [0:05:06]
How drinking lemon juice in the morning compared to drinking lemon water throughout the day affects your teeth differently [0:06:09]
Why sucking on citrus will cause damage to your teeth [0:07:43]
The cultural history of sucking on citrus fruits [0:08:30]
Dr. B’s wife’s morning routine and how she drinks her lemon water safely [0:09:26]
Drinking lemon juice throughout the day: flavored water versus fresh lemon juice [0:10:46]
How to tell the pH of your drink and interpret these results [0:11:36]
The process of acid attacks within the mouth and how they overlap with drinking an acidic beverage [0:12:19]
Why prevention is the best thing to do for dental care [0:13:25]
Know what you’re drinking: don’t assume that water is neutral [0:14:20]
How to give your teeth the chance to re-mineralize [0:15:22]
Situations that will dissolve enamel in months [0:16:11]
How to snack safely throughout the day, and tips on getting kids to drink lemon water [0:19:16]

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

The New Fat Flush Plan

Ask the Dentist: Collected Articles on Acid Attacks

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentist

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

Episode #38: Should My Child Get A Root Canal? Nov 30, 2021

Show notes

Many people shudder when they hear the term "root canal", so, unsurprisingly, there is an even greater fear around baby root canals. In today's episode, Dr. B addresses this fear by answering a question about the risks involved in baby root canals, and how they work. From his position of expertise, Dr. B talks us through why a root canal is a great option, and how a baby root canal is not all that different. He defines the difference between a pulpotomy and a pulpectomy in kids, and how each of these can and should be done. We find out why Dr. B stopped using formocresol, and what he and his functional dentist colleague, Dr. Staci Whitman, use instead. We learn about the anatomical differences between baby and adult teeth, and why it's so crucial to treat damaged baby teeth rather than to simply extract them. To find out more about the root cause of a root canal, tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to today’s topic: talking about root canals on baby teeth [0:00:12]
The question itself: ‘Are baby root canals the same as adult root canals in terms of any risks that they could run?’ [0:01:49]
Comparing the baby root canal to the adult root canal [0:02:37]
Why Dr. B stopped using formocresol in baby pulpotomies [0:03:25]
The difference between an adult and a baby tooth root canal [0:04:17]
How pulpectomies have changed over time: using an electrosurge and formocresol [0:07:19]
Why formocresol can be harmful [0:09:11]
What good dentists are now using instead of formocresol [0:09:56]
Why Dr. B doesn’t believe the rumors about root canals being bad for you [0:10:26]
Alternatives to a root canal in a kid and why these are not generally advised [0:11:06]
When to find a new dentist [0:13:13]
Other alternatives to formocresol [0:13:56]
The wrap-up of the episode and why it’s important to ask questions [0:14:48]
Why it’s best to see a functional dentist, and where you can find one [0:15:16]

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Root Cause Movie Review

Do We Still Need Formocresol in Pediatric Dentistry?

Clinical and Radiographic Success of Low-Level Laser Therapy Compared with Formocresol Pulpotomy Treatment in Primary Molars

Ask The Dentist Blog: New Study: Low-Level Laser Therapy Can Be as Effective as Formocresol In Saving Primary Molars

Ask The Dentist Blog: Root Cause Movie Review: Are Root Canals Killing Us?

Dr. Staci Whitman's Website

Dr. Staci Whitman on Instagram

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter

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

Episode #37: What About Porcelain Veneers? Nov 23, 2021

Show notes

Welcome back to Ask The Dentist, your dose of dental advice in a bite-sized podcast! Today Dr. B covers all things porcelain veneers: from what they are, to how they work, to whether or not they are necessary, and so much more! Tune in to hear Dr. B’s favorite story about giving a patient veneers, and how they changed this person’s life. We find out why it’s so important to make sure that you are getting veneers for the right reasons, and what the long-term consequences are. We discover the health benefits to veneers, and the costs involved in getting them. Dr. B also gives out some great advice on how to ensure that your dentist is the best person to give you veneers, and how to select the veneers that are right for you. For the dentists out there, Dr. B specifically addresses how to select veneers that are the best looking for each patient, as well as how to manage a patient’s expectations. Don’t miss out on this engaging episode!

Key Points From This Episode:

Welcome to the new listeners: what Ask The Dentist is all about, and where you can find more information [0:00:17]
What a functional dentist is [0:01:08]
Today's question: What does Dr. B feel about porcelain veneers, are they safe, and do they affect your health? [0:02:52]
Dr. B's favorite case study of when porcelain veneers positively impacted a patient’s life [0:04:27]
Why cosmetic dentistry is a miracle of modern dentistry [0:11:59]
Dr. B’s opinion on the health impact of veneers: they are non-toxic and safe if done properly [0:13:56]
The downsides of veneers: they are expensive and are a lifelong commitment [0:14:38]
How a veneer works and the process behind getting them done [0:15:07]
Tips on when you should be wary of a dentist doing veneers [0:16:53]
How you can make sure that you are comfortable with the veneers before cementing [0:17:44]
What to expect after getting veneers [0:18:37]
Caveats to getting veneers and managing your expectations around them [0:19:08]
The rare cases where insurance will cover a veneer [0:20:17]
The dark side of Hollywood: cosmetic dentistry and the lengths actors will go to [0:20:52]
What can go wrong with veneers and how to prevent these worst-case scenarios [0:22:10]
How to choose the dentist to do your veneers and the veneers themselves [0:23:52]
The key to a good veneer: the lab and the characterization [0:25:57]
The importance of examining your motives for getting veneers as a patient, and case-selection on the dentist’s side [0:26:47]
Why Dr. B loves doing veneers [0:30:48]
The health benefits of cosmetic work [0:32:03]
Composite veneers: a temporary fix [0:33:32]
How to find your nearest functional dentist that can do cosmetic dentistry [0:35:53]

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dental Accreditation: the London Dental Institute

Ask The Dentist: Collected Articles About Veneers

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

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

Episode #36: Should You Brush Before or After Breakfast? Nov 16, 2021

Show notes

One of the first rituals a child is taught is to brush their teeth after breakfast. And up until 10 years ago, Dr. B was giving this same advice to patients. However, with the discovery of the oral microbiome, science is no longer pointing to this as best practice. Today Dr. B addresses the question “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?” Tune in to hear how eating causes an acid wash within our mouths, and how brushing during this results in enamel demineralization. Find out the role of the oral microbiome in the production of acid following eating, and why disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work (and can even be harmful). Dr. B uses a simple analogy to describe the mechanical benefits of brushing and flossing in disrupting the biofilm and explains the pros and cons of the timing of your morning brushing. Listen in to find out why you should be changing your brushing habits!

Key Points From This Episode:

Why Dr. B’s answer to today’s question differs from his answer 15 years ago
Today’s question: “What is the benefit of brushing our teeth before or after our first meal of the day?”
How eating causes acid exposure in the mouth
The mechanism underlying tooth decay by acid wash
How our understanding of this process has changed due to the discovery of the oral microbiome
Why disinfecting the mouth doesn’t work, and is bad for you
Keeping the oral microbiome commensal: brushing and flossing at the right time
How the oral microbiome protects your teeth
Weeding the garden: an analogy for disrupting the biofilm
How the biofilm is affected by sleep
Why brushing right after eating can cause enamel damage by acid exposure and demineralization
The two best times to brush your teeth in the morning: before eating or 30 minutes after
How the mechanical action of brushing and flossing helps the oral microbiome
Why brushing right after an unhealthy meal doesn’t undo the damage
Why you need to brush your teeth even if you don’t eat in the morning
The role of functional dentistry in changing the status quo and staying up to date with science

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentist

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

Episode #35: Does Size Matter? Nov 09, 2021

Show notes

When NASA noticed astronauts were losing essential minerals in space, they started prescribing hydroxyapatite supplementation. A Japanese company picked up on this, and in the 1970s released a commercial toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite. Recently, a toothpaste brand in the USA has also jumped on the bandwagon, and today Dr. B answers two questions about why this is a great prospect! Tune in to hear how hydroxyapatite works on teeth (and bones), why it’s better than fluoride, and where you can find it. Dr. B breaks down complicated chemistry into a simple explanation that makes the benefits of hydroxyapatite clear. From whether nano- or micro-particles are better, to how the state of the mouth affects its efficacy, you don’t want to miss out on this educational episode! Join us today to get the details on two of Dr. B's favorite studies, why you shouldn't be concerned about absorbing hydroxyapatite, and so much more!

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to today’s questions: “What’s the natural size and shape of hydroxyapatite in our saliva, would having the most biomimetic size and shape in toothpaste make it more effective?”
What biomimetic substances are, and why Dr. B supports them
How calcium is a building block of the body
The functions of essential nutrients like hydroxyapatite
What the difference is between nano and micro-sized particles
Why both nano and micro-sized hydroxyapatite particles are safe for use: how they get broken down in the body
The history of calcium-phosphate based materials in human health and modern medicine
How hydroxyapatite was introduced into toothpaste: from NASA to Sangi
The difference between fluoride and hydroxyapatite in enamel repair
Why hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are better than microparticles in toothpaste
Two of Dr. B’s favorite studies on hydroxyapatite in human health

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Sangi co., ltd Japan

The Biomimetic Approach to Design Apatites for Nanobiotechnological Applications

Nano-hydroxyapatite and its applications in preventive, restorative and regenerative dentistry: a review of literature

Ask the Dentist: Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste: What It Is, Benefits, & Best Brands

Ask the Dentist: Boka Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste

Karex website

Functional Dentistry: Everything You Need to Know

The future of dentistry is functional. Here’s Why

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter

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

Episode #34: What's The Future of Functional Dentistry? Nov 02, 2021

Show notes

As a functional dentist, Dr. B is used to being asked what functional dentistry is. However, this week, this question comes with a twist as fans ask Dr. B what he is most excited about in functional dentistry. Tune in to discover Dr. B's journey to functional dentistry, from sleuthing as a child to setting up a directory globally for fellow functional dentists. Find out how functional dentistry ultimately saves lives and money, and why (despite this) the ADA doesn’t yet accept it as a specialization. We discuss diseases that functional dentistry can prevent, and Dr. B's book recommendations that cover functional topics. From nasal breathing to flat dental plates, Alzheimer’s disease to sleep apnoea, Dr. B takes us through his tips and research into the pathologies that he has applied to functional dentistry, to benefit his patients and family members. Join us to hear all this and more about the future of functional dentistry.

Key Points From This Episode:

Dr. B's weekend plans: why getting out from behind a screen post-vaccination is so important
Why most people ask what functional dentistry is
Today's question: what Dr. B is most excited about in functional dentistry
How Dr. Mark Hyman is an inspiration for functional practitioners
What motivated Dr. B to become a functional dentist
Working upstream: how functional dentistry ultimately saves lives and money
How the body compensating causes pathology and why it’s important to intercept these compensations early on
Recognizing functional dentists: one patient and one practitioner at a time
Teaching functional dentistry: learning beyond your official education
The systems that interact to affect your dental health
Becoming a practitioner of the oral-microbiome
Dr. B's "aha" moment about sleep apnea and prevention through dentistry
The oral-systemic connection: what happens in the mouth affects the body
How root cause thinking can save the entire healthcare system
The importance of promoting nasal breathing
Understanding the P. gingivalis bug and its link to Alzheimer’s disease
Why the future of dentistry is functional
Functional dentistry throughout the world: From Brazil to Japan

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Functional Dentistry: Everything You Need to Know - Ask the Dentist

The future of dentistry is functional. Here's why. - Ask the Dentist

Dr. Mark Hyman on LinkedIn

Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art

Ask the Dentist: 5 Sleep Apnoea Questions

Can gingivitis cause Alzheimer's Disease? [A Scientific Review]

Check Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!!

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter

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

Episode #33: What fixes pulpitis? Oct 26, 2021

Show notes

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:

Follow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentist

Follow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentist