Red and Near Infrared Light Therapy: Too Good to Be True

Red light therapy is becoming more and more popular lately. The benefits are so numerous as to seem too good to be true. In today’s post I will discuss the science behind the claims.

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A New Study Shows Gum Disease May Cause Alzheimer's Disease

A recent study shows a strong connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. The germ that causes gum disease has been found in the brains of Alzheimer Disease sufferers. Substances known as gingipains are secreted by the bacteria are responsible for much of the damage. The good news is that gum disease is easily treatable. The same study shows that there may be a new drug on the horizon to inactivate gingipains.

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Gum Disease, Heart Disease and Cholesterol-A Clearer Perspective

Today I want to talk about the connection between gum disease and heart disease. I am going to talk about one specific recent study, and I am going to get more scientific than usual, so forgive me, but the information is too good to ignore.

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The Truth About Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient ayurvedic therapy for maintaining oral hygiene. It involves swishing approximately 1 tablespoon of oil typically edible oils including coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes and then spitting it out The popularity of oil pulling has seen a recent surge in popularity. The practice has been verified as a legitimate therapy and also as a wive’s tale. Which one is true? This post will cut to the truth of the matter.

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Grow, Rest, Repeat

I often find myself striving to be a better person physically, spiritually, and intellectually. This can take quite an effort sometimes. The only way I find I can keep up with myself is to get plenty of rest. This post is dedicated to my good friend Al Danenberg who despite a terminal diagnosis, is still growing himself, and teaching me how to grow a better me.

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The Confusing World Of Dental Pain

Sadly, many people avoid going to the dentist, but when teeth start hurting, their motivation goes up. Unfortunately, waiting until you have a toothache is like trying to fix the roof while it is raining. Today I am going to talk about tooth pain in all of its varieties and what you should do about it.

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How To Raise A Child With Perfect Teeth Part I

In today's post I am going to talk about neonatal oral care, the assessment of your newborn’s mouth, tongue and face for neonatal problems, and when to take your baby to the dentist for the first time. The recommendations are not universal. I will explain why in this post.

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CRP, Cardiovascular Disease and Periodontal Disease: A Triad Of Trouble

There is a well known association between cardiovasular disease and gum disease. A simple test for CRP can help to diagnose both of them. Today, I will discuss the connection between the two diseases, and how a CRP test may be a useful tool in treating and diagnosing them.

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Proper Human Interaction (PHI): The Missing Ingredient For Health, Happiness And Longevity

Today, we don’t have to hunt or even farm our own food, we have climate control everywhere, we are highly entertained, we have medicine for everything, and we can gain goods and services at the click of a link. In constructing this "paradise”, we have lost the need for most common human interactions. In today’s post, I will explain whye are stronger when we come together, and how that can be achieved even in today's divided world.

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Swollen Gums And Diet

A large segment of my patient population believe that swollen gums happen normally about every six months due to plaque build-up. They come for their cleaning, the plaque is removed, and they are good to go for the next six months. There is nothing normal about having swollen gums. Unfortunately, it is so common, most people just accept it as a normal occurrence. It can be an indication of potential dietary issues.

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Lip Incompetence, Mouth Breathing, (And Mouth Tape?)

Lip incompetence is a condition where the lips cannot form a seal when your jaw is at rest without straining.  It should be diagnosed and correct as soon as possible. It is generally very easy to detect, but in some cases it can be tricky. If you suspect you may have this condition, consult with your dentist as soon as you can.

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My Mission (Why I Want You On My Website, Not In My Chair)

During a recent health conference, I found myself explaining why I was not just a run of the mill dentist.  My real passion is cutting through all of the bad health advice, misconceptions, half-truths and downright lies out there and disseminating the plain truth to those willing to listen. As they say, if I catch you a fish, I have fed you a meal, if I teach you how to fish, I have fed you for a lifetime.

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Osteoporosis, Bisphosphonates and your Mouth

Since the teeth are supported by bone, osteoporosis can affect the mouth. Oral manifestations can include gum recession, gum disease, loose teeth, tooth loss, implant failure and I’ll fitting dentures. The medication to treat osteoporosis poses a sever risk for your jaws. This post addresses osteoporosis, your mouth, and what you can do to prevent it.

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