The first in our series in support of CA Proposition 37, requiring the labeling of genetically engineered foods. This issue affects dental health in particular and has far reaching consequences for environmental health in general.  (See our latest post on dentistrygoesgreen.com and a prior post at http://bit.ly/T6ARlD on this subject).

As the above video shows, food sensitivities can cause gum problems, among other health considerations. Supporting CA Prop 37 is important because a healthy diet is necessary for natural dental health. The GMO labeling advocated by Prop 37 is necessary so that informed food choices can be made by all.

As a holistic dentist as well as a citizen,  I am reminded once again of the quote by the Roman physician Galen, “Let your food be your medicine and let your medicine be your food.” That is as true today as it was in his time.

The California Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) is the lead agency for the implementation of the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, better known by its original name, Proposition 65. Proposition 65 is a voter approved initiative that addresses the public’s concerns about exposure to toxic chemicals, and requires that the State publish a list of chemicals known to cause cancer or birth defects or other reproductive harm. Currently, the list, which must be updated at least once a year, has grown to include approximately 800 chemicals since it was first published in 1987.

The Carcinogen Identification Committee (CIC) advises and assists OEHHA in compiling the list of these harmful chemicals. Fluoride and its salts, and tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate will be considered for possible listing by the CIC at its next meeting, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, October 12 and 13, 2011.

The City of San Diego—as well as the cities of Coronado, Del Mar, and Imperial Beach—began fluoridating all of its drinking water in February 2011, following the San Diego City Council acceptance of an offer of funding from the First 5 Commission in June of 2008. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, there are profound and consequential disparities in the oral health of our citizens that have resulted in a “silent epidemic” of dental and oral diseases that disproportionately affects low-income and minority populations. The First 5 Commission of San Diego County states that, “Community water fluoridation is considered the safest, most effective, cost-efficient and equitable means to provide protection from tooth decay in a community.”

But what does fluoridation mean to you and your health? How do you feel about public water being used as a vehicle for mass medication? And, how do you feel about having city water, water that you pay for, fluoridated against your will?

According to the Fluoride Action Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the health effects of fluoride ingestion (due to water fluoridation as well as other sources), there are at least fifty reasons to oppose fluoridation. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledges that the mechanism of fluoride’s benefits are mainly topical and not systemic. This means that the fluoride that you swallow in your drinking water won’t be doing you much good (if any) as it splashes by your teeth on the way to your stomach. In April of last year, an issue of Time magazine included fluoride on a list of “The Hazards Lurking at Home,” pointing out that fluoride is “neurotoxic and potentially tumorigenic if swallowed; [and that] the American Dental Association advises that children under 2 not use fluoride toothpaste.”

While San Diegans drink, play and scrub up in fluoridated water, it is to be noted that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has never approved any fluoride product designed for ingestion as safe or effective and that no clinical trials have been conducted and submitted to the FDA to demonstrate the effectiveness of ingesting fluoride. If the FDA does not recognize the safety and effectiveness of fluoride supplements, how can we, as a community of athletes, infants, elders, medical patients (with special emphasis on kidney dialysis patients), and average citizens—all of whom consume various amounts of water in a myriad of ways—feel safe with fluoridated water?

The Fluoride Action Network reports that fluoride is a cumulative poison and that on average, only 50% of the fluoride we ingest each day is excreted through the kidneys. The remainder accumulates in our bones, pineal gland, and other tissues. If the kidney is damaged, fluoride accumulation will increase, and with it, the likelihood of harm.

For more information on the health impacts of fluoridated water, visit The Fluoride Action Network at www.fluoridealert.org and Citizens for Safe Drinking Water at www.nofluoride.com

Fluoride & Water Action Alert
We have the opportunity to let our views about fluoridation be taken into account. A public comment period regarding the toxicity of fluoridation is being held by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6, 2011.

The OEHHA encourages you to submit comments in electronic form, rather than in paper form. Comments transmitted by e-mail should be addressed to coshita@oehha.ca.gov. Comments submitted in paper form may be mailed, faxed, or delivered in person to the address below:
Ms. Cynthia Oshita
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
P.O. Box 4010, MS-19B
Sacramento, California 95812-4010
Comments transmitted by fax should be sent to
(916) 323-8803.
OEHHA will organize and index the comments received and forward the information to the CIC members prior to the meeting at which the chemicals will be considered.

SIDE BAR: The fluoride used for water fluoridation does not have FDA approval and is considered by the FDA as an “unapproved drug.” The proper use of any drug requires an understanding of how much is too much. Since fluoride is already in many foods and beverages, an estimated total intake of existing fluoride amounts is imperative.

Reprinted with permission from Ocean Beach People’s Organic Food Market. www.obpeoplesfood.coop

And A Wholesome Diet Is Also Good for the Brain

Gum disease can be elusive. By the time symptoms appear, the disease is already advanced.  It is estimated that as much as 80% of the population is affected by gum disease, signs of which can range from simple bleeding gums to sore, loose teeth.  What does gum disease have to do with stress, inflammation and intestinal permeability, commonly known as leaky gut?

The modern day American diet and environmental toxicity, when combined with our stressful lifestyle, has increased our level of inflammation. This affects the body’s ability to self-regulate and function optimally. One of the first things affected by stress is our gut or intestines, but it doesn’t stop there. Once the gut lining is inflamed, then other systems often follow suit, including organs, hormones, the immune system, and the brain. Keep in mind that approximately 50% of our immune production is contained within the gut lining.

The impact of a leaky gut on brain functions happens via the connection through the vagus nerve, which regulates intestinal blood flow and immune activation. Secretion  of hormones from the hypothalamus is also involved.  Numerous studies have shown that disturbed neural regulation, inflammation and/or trauma along what is known as the brain/gut axis will disregulate both systems.  At some point, this inflammatory condition will affect the gums as well.

One root cause of intestinal permeability is traumatic stress of any type.  Any impactful event with life-changing consequences can be a stressor of such magnitude that it causes the gut to lose its ability to function properly.  Examples of this may include loss of a job, death or injury or a loved one and divorce.  Commonplace yet significant events like childbirth or changing residences can be traumatic enough on a cellular level to cause the tight junctions of the intestines to weaken and loosen, thus allowing through substances that can become immune triggers.  This is one way that the cycle of leaky gut begins, which may impact the signs and symptoms of gum disease.

Access to clean water is fundamental to health, much more fundamental than access to fluoridated water.  Particularly since it has been proven that fluoride is only effective in strengthening teeth when applied topically, whereas systemic use of fluoride does not strengthen bone.

The primary concern of the EPA is the mottling and pitting of teeth when too much fluoride is ingested. toothpaste is one common source of fluoride. There are other pervasive sources like fruit juice made with already treated water and pesticide residues on fruit such as grapes.  It is difficult to monitor the amount of fluoride that children are getting, even with lowered guidelines.  It would be much simpler if children received topical treatments from their dentists as requested by their parents, rather than altering the water supply.

Another problem is that the hydrofluosalicic acid used in water treatment has never been tested and approved by the FDA.  The FDA’s mandate to monitor public health was not in effect to the degree it is now at the time the fluoridation practice was implemented.  So we really don’t know if an additive used in the water supply in every major city in the nation is actually good for the population.

Many say ‘no,’  and most nations have rejected fluoridation.  In fact India has identified 17 out of its 32 states where high levels of fluoride in the ground water puts the population at risk for skeletal fluorosis and many have been afflicted.  It would certainly be good if the FDA followed the EPA’s example and established some better ground rules for public health .

As stated on its web site, the IAOMT was formed in 19984 to promote ” Evidence Based Dentistry” in order to “review, support, and disseminate research on the suitability of materials and methodologies used in the dental practice. The IAOMT convened in San Diego this past week for its biannual gathering of brilliant speakers.  Among them was Boyd Hayley,  head of the chemistry department at the University of Kentucky and a renowned expert on environmental health.  Numerous YoutTube videos can be found in which Dr. Haley discusses mercury in amalgam fillings and its effects.  Here are some of the links:

http://bit.ly/b1Zb0D

http://bit.l /df1gsu

http://bit.ly/arGGHG

The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection issues some guidelines in 1998 and the following year the E. U. followed up with some regulatory suggestions that several European nations have complied with.  In our office we are sensitive to this issue.  We actually do not have a wireless hookup for our computer network or for the Internet; we use DSL, which does not have quite the same impact.  We have experimented with numerous devices and frequencies to create a shield of EMF protection and are continuing to research the possibilities.  We will continue to share our findings on this subject with you.

I see the result of sugar and poor diet on teeth every day. This coupled with inadequate oral hygeine/home care is the difference between dental health and decay.  When I see the effects on the oral cavity, it makes me wonder what sugar, processed foods, and improper diet does to the body as a whole in terms of acidity, plaque in the arteries, inability to detoxify, and breakdown of the organs and immune systems.  It is a humbling thought.

The acid stays present on the teeth because of either poor brushing and flossing habits (oral hygiene) and/or the presence of too much acidity in the saliva, which feeds the decay-causing bacteria and causes it to flourish.  Children from age 6 until adolescence are at risk for cavities because their constant exposure to sweets, whether in the form of all-too-prevalent candy or ‘good-for-you’ fruit juices, which  contain a high degree of fructose.  While fructose is a natural sugar, it is still a sweet and will feed the bacteria that causes tooth decay.  My youngest patient is currently two years old and has cavities.

In my holistic dental practice, I strongly espouse the basics. What you do every day to maintain the health of the mouth pays dividends on many levels.  Keeping your mouth and gums bacteria free and thus inflammation free has become recognized as having a role in the health of your heart and blood vessels.  Brushing and flossing really are important.  Yes often it is inconvenient, but once a day is all you need to maintain your teeth in a healthy state.  If you have trouble with inflammation, maybe twice a day with regular cleanings will be necessary.

If you have bleeding gums when you brush or when you have cleanings done at the dental office, or if you have pocketing over 3 millimeters when measured by your dentist, then more than the basics may be necessary.  Often deep cleanings or root planing is recommended.  However, I have found that bringing the inflammation down first is more effective than just deep cleanings.  I have spoken about the holistic gel treatment I do in my dental practice in previous posts.  What I haven’t spoken about is the overall effect it has on the health of the mouth.

Basically, less bacteria and less inflammation leads to less plaque and less decay.  Really healthy gums means healthier teeth.  The two go hand in hand.  With this foundation, good home care and a good holistic dentist who is focused on the preservation of your teeth, you will have your teeth for a lifetime.

There are techniques including bone grafting techniques that have evolved over the years. The types of things that can be done and the results possible are quite impressive. It of course depends on the knowledge and skill of the practitioner and the healing capacity of the body.  The main difference is that instead of cutting gums back to where the bone is, often times bone can be added to support and strengthen the teeth.

Lasers can also play a role in gum surgery at the periodontal office. Instead of using a knife the periodontist can sometimes use a laser to cut tissue and coagulate the blood. The main advantage of this technique is that often there is recovery and healing that leaves the tissue and bone levels better than before. In other words there is more  bone and gum attachment after the healing is complete.

While it is not faster than traditional surgery, the results can be as good or sometimes better. Although not applicable in every situation, laser surgery definitely has its place. Most periodontists in San Diego charge around $1,000 per quadrant and there are four quadrants in the mouth. Unfortunately, the treatment needs to be completed within a 2-3 week period, so it is not something that can be done over time.

I have found that most patients first want to try the conservative and non-surgical approaches first. I have had good luck in my office with patients who will do the necessary home care required to reverse gum disease.

Even though up to 80% of the population suffers from some form of gum disease, it is not always apparent or obvious. This is because it rarely hurts until the damage becomes quite advanced. The common warning signs of gum disease include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, swollen or tender gums, red gums, and spaces that develop between teeth. Other warning signs include bad breath or bad taste, long teeth from extreme gum recession and/or a change in your bite.

What can be done about this common problem and how can we maintain our teeth and gums so that we keep them healthy for life? As a holistic dentist practicing in San Diego, I have years of experience treating gum problems.  I have found that there are basically three levels of care that work in conjunction to improve gum health. I first remove the plaque and hard deposits that cause bacteria buildup and gum inflammation. I then use natural products in the office and recommend other products for home use to continue to lower inflammation and promote healing of the gums. I then use laser gum treatment to stimulate the gums and eliminate the pocketing that promotes gum disease.

This protocol offered at my holistic dental office is one that almost any patient can do because it is less painful than most of the other options and less expensive as well.  Compared with surgery, it is a lot less painful and less expensive. With this approach to gum treatment, I have found that patients can go from moderate gum disease, with 4-6 mm pocketing, to a healthy 2-3 mm pocket range. Quite a difference for them, and they are very happy they were able to avoid surgery. Surgery is always an option, but wouldn’t you rather try the conservative approach to treat gum pain and periodontal disease first?

If you are local to San Diego, we will be happy to answer your questions to see if holistic dentistry may be the right approach for you.

But you may have some concerns about whether ClearCorrect will work for your smile.  ClearCorrect can help you achieve your best smile whether your teeth are crowded or spaced. It can correct most overbites and underbites and can straighten and align teeth that are crooked or turned.  Certainly, an actual assessment of your case will be necessary, but ClearCorrect has a very broad application and the chance  are good that you can benefit from treatment in one or more of the following ways:

• Improve the way you bite with your back teeth.
• Improve the alignment of your front teeth.
• Improve the cosmetic appearance of your smile.
• Improve the overall health of your teeth and mouth.
• Improve the ease of caring for your teeth.

The ideal situation for invisible braces is slight to moderate crowding of upper or lower teeth, especially in the front. A lot of spacing between the teeth makes this treatment more difficult. The first step is for your doctor to evaluate your teeth and talk about any goals you have for your smile. Once you and your doctor establish ClearCorrect is the right treatment option for you, your doctor will create a custom treatment plan for you.  Impressions, photos, and x-rays of your teeth will be taken for records and guidelines for the ClearCorrect lab to make your custom aligners.

Your doctor will send the guidelines to ClearCorrect with a prescription for your custom aligners. ClearCorrect then uses your records to create exact 3D models of your teeth and from there on works with your doctor every step of the way.  Following the precise instructions provided on your prescription, ClearCorrect maps out a complete treatment plan of gradual adjustment that takes your teeth from where they are currently to where you and your doctor have envisioned them turning out.

Once completed, you and your doctor will be able to preview the projected results of your treatment in your “treatment set-up,” a computer representation of your teeth before and after treatment.  When both you and your doctor are satisfied with the projected results shown in your treatment set-up, the manufacturing process begins. Using the latest digital mapping and molding technology, ClearCorrect creates your custom aligners with computer precision. ClearCorrect then sends your aligners to your doctor for delivery to you.

The progress you make in wearing your aligners will be gradual and fit into your daily routine.  You’ll wear your aligners all the time, except while eating and drinking or during daily tooth care, such as brushing and flossing. The smooth surface finish on ClearCorrect aligners withstands clouding from wear.  They are so clear they are barely noticeable, minimally invasive and removable.  ClearCorrect is designed to fit your life and daily routine as perfectly as it fits your teeth

With each aligner tray, you’ll be able to see the difference as your teeth slowly adjust toward your target smile. Follow-up appointments are usually short, and because ClearCorrect treatment is flexible, you can schedule appointments with your doctor to fit your availability. You don’t have to be concerned about being too busy.

Generally the aligners will need to be changed every six weeks or so.  Results are faster the more you wear your aligners, and ClearCorrect was designed to be effortless and non intrusive in your life so you can easily wear your aligners. You really only need to take them out when you eat or clean your teeth.

You’ll be surprised at how quickly you’ll forget you’re wearing your ClearCorrect aligners. And they’re so clear that others in your life won’t notice them either.  Once  you and your doctor decide to begin treatment with the ClearCorrect system, you’ll receive your aligners in sets at periodic follow-up appointments.

Eventually you will have the smile you’ve always wanted