I’ve got a new study for you all that should change how we’re dealing with those unsightly white spots after braces removal…
White spots after braces removal are extremely common. Those unsightly white spots are decalcifications that result from plaque building up around the orthodontic brackets.
The standard advice has always been: use fluoridated toothpaste to help remineralize these spots.
This study shows that nanohydroxyapatite toothpaste is superior to fluoridated toothpaste in restoring the enamel around where the brackets were, getting rid of those white spots.
For anyone getting braces, I recommend using nanohydroxyapatite toothpaste before, during, and after treatment. And not just for the white spot concerns—ditching fluoride for nanohydroxyapatite is better for your teenager’s brain and oral microbiome.
Another pearl in this study is that the atomic force microscope is better at assessing nano surfaces than scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which previously was what I used as the gold standard.
When you look at remineralization studies, see how they are assessing the remineralized surfaces—if the study uses the atomic force microscope method, the study is using a more sophisticated way of analyzing results which leads to more accurate conclusions.
I’m getting a lot of great feedback on two of my latest podcast episodes. Give them a listen if you haven’t yet and, as always, love to hear what you think.
🎧 Episode #95: Do Micro-Plastics Have an Effect on Our Teeth?
🎧 Episode #97: Revitalizing Oral Health Through the Art of Breathing with Wim Hoff Instructor Chuck McGee
The health of our saliva is an often overlooked element of oral health, but it’s crucial. Good hydration keeps our salivary glands functioning well, but how do we achieve the best salivary health?
Saliva needs to be loaded with minerals. Hydration and the right balance of electrolytes makes saliva able to do its job, which is remineralize teeth and modulate biofilms. This is what I call “ionic integrity” of saliva.
The ionic integrity of saliva is beneficial for several reasons. For one, it allows your saliva to deliver essential minerals to your teeth. Secondly, a mineral-rich saliva helps control plaque build-up, and encourages the growth of helpful bacteria in your mouth. Not only that, but saliva rich in minerals can safeguard your mouth from the acidic attacks that can occur via food, drink, or bacteria.
The easiest way to make sure you’re supporting the ionic integrity of your saliva? Listen to this episode: 🎧 Episode #92: Missing Element in Saliva Health
Who would you like to see me interview next on the Ask the Dentist podcast? Hit reply and let me know.
Have a great week,
P.S. Something I use daily to improve the ionic integrity of my saliva is this electrolyte powder, because of its unique ratio of sodium, magnesium, and potassium.
🦷 Mondays with Mark (NEW STUDY)