Episode 13: Functional Dentistry and the Oral-Systemic Connection with Dr. Mark Burhenne, DDS

The oral-systemic disease connection has long been established
(recall older recommendations for prophylactic antibiotics before
dental work in individuals with endocarditis or joint implants),
but with the emerging data on the oral microbiome, new attention is
being paid to oral health and the prevention of diseases ranging
from cardiovascular to autoimmune and more. A transient bacteremia
is the normal course after brushing, but when there is a breakdown
in oral health and alterations to the oral microbiome, this
transient bacteremia leads to chronic, systemic inflammation,
contributing to the course of systemic disease. There is much we
can do to support our patients in correcting this inflammation, not
the least of which includes a healthy, sugar-free diet; regular
cleanings and appropriate brushing techniques. Ideally, the dentist
is a part of the functional medicine team. Disordered sleep
breathing is a wide-spread, underappreciated problem in children
and adults. Once thought to be primarily stress or trauma related,
bruxism is now understood to be evidence of disordered breathing
(see reference link below). Additionally, a scalloped or fissured
tongue (macroglossia) also contribute to disordered sleep
breathing.