Treating facial pain and jaw problems

Chronic facial pain is a problem faced by millions of Americans.

Common symptoms can include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth or even head and neck aches.

If you are suffering from this type of pain, your dentist can help identify its source with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays.

Sometimes, the problem is a sinus or toothache or it could be an early stage of periodontal disease.

But for some pain, the cause is not so easily diagnosed.

There are two joints and several jaw muscles which make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak, and swallow.

These structures include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone, the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJ’s.

Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

There are several ways the TMJ disorders may be treated.

Diagnosis is an important step before treatment.

Part of your clinical examination includes checking the joints and muscles for tenderness, clicking, popping or difficulty moving.

Your dentist may take x-rays and may make a “cast” of your teeth to see how your bite fits together.

To help you deal with this pain, your dentist will recommend what type of treatment you need and may refer you to a specialist.

Dry mouth is a common problem that can harm your teeth

If your saliva flow is reduced, this can cause dry mouth which often leads to increased tooth and gum problems.

Dry mouth – known as xerostomia – is a common problem especially among older adults. It’s caused by certain medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers and diuretics.

The common problems associated with dry mouth include:

– Constant sore throat
– Burning sensation
– Problems speaking
– Difficulty swallowing
– Hoarseness or dry nasal passages

When there is not enough saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, there is a risk of extensive tooth decay.

If you are at risk from this condition, your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture.

For example, sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses.

As dry mouth is a potential side effect of many prescribed and over-the-counter medications it is a very common problem.

These medications can include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, drugs for urinary incontinence, Parkinson’s disease medications, antidepressants and many others.

Fortunately there are many simple solutions available to reduce the risk to your oral health caused by dry mouth so talk to your dentist if you are on any kind of medication or you feel you may be at risk from this issue.

Decoding Health: Harnessing the Power of Saliva Lab Tests and Nrf2 Activation in Biohacking

In the intricate world of medical practice, I proudly wear the hat of a "biohacker," dedicated to sculpting a healthier, more resilient future for my patients at the cellular level. Within this transformative journey, I navigate the intricate landscape of biomarkers, saliva lab tests, bloodwork, and state-of-the-art supplements – all essential tools in my biohacking toolkit. The mission? To decode the genetic intricacies and empower my patients to embrace a proactive, preventive lifestyle.
 
As a biohacker, my philosophy revolves around delving deep into the very essence of our being – our genetic code. It's a fascinating journey that involves peering into the secrets hidden within our genes, unraveling the intricate dance of DNA, and, ultimately, influencing the trajectory of our health. One unconventional yet profound indicator of this internal landscape is the human mouth, which I often describe as a window to one's internal body tissue health.
 
My approach is not merely about treating symptoms but about understanding the root causes of health issues. The integration of saliva lab tests and genetic analysis reports derived from these tests, along with comprehensive bloodwork, allows me to create a personalized health narrative for each patient. It's a journey that goes beyond the standard medical assessments, tapping into the unique genetic blueprint of individuals.
 
The saliva DNA lab tests, in particular, open a gateway to a treasure trove of information encoded within our genes. It's here that the magic of biohacking unfolds. Armed with insights from genetic risk factors and biomarkers linked to both oral and systemic inflammatory responses, I can tailor health recommendations with precision. This personalized approach is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a bespoke strategy, meticulously crafted based on an individual's genetic predispositions.
 
In this biohacking journey, the spotlight is also on Nrf2 activation – a cutting-edge concept in cellular health. Nrf2, or nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, is a protein that acts as a master regulator of antioxidant response elements. Activating Nrf2 pathways has the potential to enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms, promoting resilience against oxidative stress and inflammation.
 
By synergizing the insights gained from saliva lab tests, genetic analysis, and the power of Nrf2 activation, I embark on a holistic approach to health optimization. This convergence represents a paradigm shift, providing a proactive and preventive framework for individuals to take charge of their well-being based on their unique genetic makeup.
 
As we navigate the realms of biohacking, the fusion of saliva lab tests and Nrf2 activation emerges as a beacon of hope for personalized and precision medicine. It's a journey where decoding the genetic language becomes a roadmap to a healthier, more vibrant life – a testament to the transformative power of biohacking in shaping the future of healthcare.

How the food you eat can cause tooth decay

When you put food in your mouth, it immediately meets the bacteria that live there.

Plaque, for example, is a sticky film of bacteria.

These bacteria love the sugars found in many foods. So, when you don’t clean your teeth after eating, the bacteria and the sugar can combine to produce acids which can destroy the enamel – the hard surface of the tooth.

In time, this can lead to tooth decay. The more often you eat and the longer foods are in your mouth, the more damage occurs.

Many foods that are nutritious and important in our diet contain sugars – such as fruits, milk, bread, cereals and even vegetables.

So the key is not to try and avoid sugar but to think before you eat.

When you eat is also important because each time you eat food that contains sugars, the teeth are attacked by acids for 20 minutes or more.

This means that foods that are eaten as part of a meal cause less harm. More saliva is released during a meal, helping to wash foods from the mouth and reduce the effects of acids.

Here are some tips to follow when choosing your meals and snacks.
– Eat a variety of foods from different food groups
– Limit the number of snacks that you eat
– If you do snack, choose nutritious foods, such as cheese, raw vegetables, plain yogurt, or a piece of fruit

It’s also important to brush your teeth twice a day and to clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.

And of course regular visits to your dentist will help prevent problems from occurring and catch those that do occur while they are easier to treat.

Making your teeth look better with veneers

Everybody wants the best smile possible and there’s no need to have it spoiled by gaps in your teeth or by teeth that are stained or badly shaped.

Whether the problem was caused by nature or by an injury, you may be able to have a veneer placed on top of your teeth to restore or improve your smile.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth.

Your dentist will usually make a model of your teeth and the veneers will be made by a specialist dental technician.

A small amount of enamel has to be removed from your teeth to accommodate the shell so having veneers is usually an irreversible process.

In order to make the most of your veneer, your dentist may suggest that you avoid foods and drinks that could discolor them, such as coffee, tea or red wine.

It’s also possible that veneers might chip or fracture.

But, for many people, veneers are well worth it as they give them a completely new smile.

How sedation and general anesthesia can make your visit to the dentist easier

While local anesthetics are often used in dental treatment, there is sometimes a need for anti-anxiety agents – such as nitrous oxide – or sedatives to help people relax during dental visits.

Dentists may use these agents to induce “minimal or moderate sedation”.

In this case, the patient reaches a relaxed state during treatment but can respond to speech or touch.

Sedatives can be administered before, during or after dental procedures by mouth, inhalation or injection.

More complex treatments may require drugs that can induce “deep sedation”.

This reduces consciousness and causes a loss of feeling which helps to reduce both pain and anxiety.

Sometimes patients undergo “general anesthesia” where the drugs lead to a temporary loss of consciousness.

A dentist may recommend deep sedation or general anesthesia for certain procedures with children or with adults who have severe anxiety or for people who have difficulty controlling their movements.

While these techniques to control pain and anxiety are used to treat tens of millions of patients safely every year, it’s important that you let your dentist know anything that might affect your ability to benefit from them for example, tell them about any illnesses or health conditions, whether you are taking any medications and if you’ve had any problems with allergic reactions to medications.

The causes of bad breath

Bad breath – also known as halitosis – is an unpleasant condition that can cause a great deal of embarrassment.

And, for many people, it’s made even worse by the fact they don’t even know that they have it.

There are many possible causes for bad breath so, if you think you might have the problem, talk to your dentist.

What you eat affects what you breathe out. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor and even dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath.

Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth (xerostomia) which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases.

One of the reasons why it’s especially important to talk to your dentist about bad breath is that it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem such as respiratory tract infection or gastrointestinal problems.

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also be a warning signs of gum disease.

Smoking can also cause bad breath, stain teeth and reduce your ability to taste foods.

For all these reasons, you shouldn’t put up with the problem of bad breath. Talk to your dentist and find out what might be causing the problem.

How your oral health links with your general health

Research has shown strong links between periodontitis (advanced form of gum disease) and other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke and bacterial pneumonia.

And pregnant women with periodontitis may be at increased risk of delivering pre-term and/or having babies with low birth weight.

However, just because two conditions occur at the same time, doesn’t necessarily mean that one condition causes the other. The relationship could work the other way.

For example, there is evidence that diabetics are more likely to develop periodontitis and have more severe periodontitis than non-diabetics.

Alternatively, two conditions that occur together may be caused by something else.

In addition, people who smoke or use alcohol have a higher than average risk of developing periodontitis and other conditions, including oral cancer.

Research is looking at what happens when periodontitis is treated in individuals with these problems.

The aim is to find out whether periodontitis does have an effect on other health problems.

If one caused the other, improvement in periodontal health would also improve other health problems.

While the research is not yet conclusive, the potential link between periodontitis and systemic health problems, means that preventing periodontitis may be an important step in maintaining overall health.

In most cases, good oral health can be maintained by brushing and flossing every day and receiving regular professional dental care.

Making living with dentures easy and comfortable

Your dentures were made to fit you precisely and, if they are cared for properly, they do not change shape.

But you may sometimes find that they can become loose due to natural changes in the gums and bone supporting them. As the jawbone begins to shrink, so do the gums.

If you find your dentures no longer fit properly, see your dentist as soon as possible so adjustments can be made.

Trying to change the fit of your dentures yourself can damage them and make them unrepairable so this would be a costly experiment!

Ill-fitting dentures repaired at home can also irritate the gums, tongue and cheeks.

In an emergency, you could use denture adhesives to keep the dentures stable until you are able to see the dentist.

Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, it’s still important to see your dentist regularly for an oral examination.

The dentist will examine your mouth to check for any problem with the gum ridges, the tongue and the joints of the jaw, as well as screen for oral cancer.

For a variety of reasons, many older adults are more susceptible to oral diseases, including oral cancer. About 95 percent of all cancers are found in people over age 40. However, many of these cancers are treatable if detected early.

Oral tissues are also checked for signs of other diseases that can first manifest themselves in the mouth.

Living with dentures can be comfortable if you continue to care for your oral hygiene and make regular visits to your dentist for a checkup.

How cancer treatment affects oral health

When someone is undergoing cancer treatment, it’s important that they involve their dentist in their program of care.

They should schedule a dental exam and cleaning before the treatment actually begins and then repeat it periodically during the course of treatment.

It’s important that they tell the dentist that they are being treated for cancer and that they also discuss any dental procedures, such as extractions or insertion of dental implants, with the oncologist before starting the cancer treatment.

It’s therefore a good idea to ensure that the dentist and oncologist have each other’s details to enable them to discuss any issues to help the patient.

And the dentist and physician should be informed about any issues such as bleeding of the gums, pain, or unusual feeling in the teeth or gums, or any dental infections.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene during cancer treatment is vital to reduce the risk of infection and to help aid the treatment process.

How to overcome problems with teeth grinding

When under stress, many people find themselves grinding their teeth or clenching their jaws.

This habit actually has a name – bruxism – and often it’s something we do when we sleep.

It can be caused by stress and anxiety and it can also be due to sleep disorders, an abnormal bite or missing and crooked teeth.

It can lead to symptoms such as dull headache or a sore jaw.

Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep.

Severe grinding can lead to painful or loose teeth and this can lead to fractures in your teeth.

Taking stress out on your teeth in this way can lead to long term damage so, if stress is the cause, you need to find a way to relax!

Relaxants, counseling and even exercise may help reduce stress and tension and can be a big help to your teeth.

How a healthy diet can help you have healthy teeth

Eating the right food plays an important role in developing healthy teeth and gums.

If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to fight infection and this can contribute to gum disease.

Although poor nutrition does not cause gum disease directly, the disease may progress faster and could be more severe in people with diets which are low in nutrients.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture makes recommendations on the nutrients, vitamins and minerals needed by your body – including your teeth and gums – to promote health and prevent disease.

We have different needs at various stages life and depending on our physical activity. The DOA website provides more information and your dentist will be able to discuss how your diet affects your teeth.

Here are some steps you can take to make sure what you eat doesn’t harm your teeth.

•  Maintain a healthy diet
•  Drink plenty water
•  Limit the number of between-meal snacks. When you must snack, choose nutritious foods that are low in sugar
•  Keep a food diary for a week recording every item you eat and drink

It will also help if you brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings and talk to your dentist about how your diet affects your teeth.

Why dry mouth can be a problem and what to do about it

Your saliva plays an important role in your oral health and reduced saliva flow can lead to health problems.

Reduced saliva flow can lead to a dry mouth and this is a common problem among older adults.

It can be caused by various medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers and diuretics.

Dry mouth can be associated with various problems such as a constant sore throat, burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages.

Drying irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, which can make them inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Without the cleansing effects of saliva, tooth decay and other oral health problems become more common.

So, if dry mouth is not treated, it can damage your teeth.

Without adequate saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive decay can occur.

Your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses.

Taking care of removable partial dentures

If you have removable plastic dentures, it’s important to look after them carefully.

You should brush them each day to remove food deposits and plaque. This also helps prevent them from becoming permanently stained.

It’s best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures as it has bristles arranged to fit the shape of the denture. But a regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable.

Avoid using a brush with hard bristles as these can damage the denture.

When you are handling a denture, hold them carefully. Try standing over a folded towel or a sink of water with them in case you accidentally drop them.

It’s advisable to use a denture cleanser which has the American Dental Association seal of acceptance. However hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid are also acceptable for cleaning dentures.

Other types of household cleaners and many toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures.

A denture can lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. So it should be placed in soaking solution or water at night though one with metal attachments could be tarnished if placed in soaking solution.

As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture so, if they no longer fit properly, they should be adjusted by your dentist.

See your dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose as this can cause sores or infections.

Don’t try to adjust or repair your denture yourself as this can damage the appliance beyond repair.

When you wear a partial denture, you need to continue brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily. This will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Pay special attention to cleaning the teeth that fit under the denture’s metal clasps. Plaque that becomes trapped under the clasps will increase the risk of tooth decay.

Your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate how to properly brush and clean between teeth.

Regular dental check-ups and having your teeth professionally cleaned are vital for maintaining a healthy smile.

Fixing crowded and crooked teeth with orthodontics

Correcting problems with crowded and crooked teeth not only gives you a better smile, it also leads to a healthier mouth.

Malocclusion, also known as “bad bite”, involves teeth that are crowded or crooked.

Sometimes, the upper and lower jaws may not meet properly and, although the teeth may appear straight, the individual may have an uneven bite.

Problems such as protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced teeth may be inherited. But thumb-sucking, losing teeth prematurely and accidents also can lead to these conditions.

As well as spoiling your smile, crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss.

A bad bite can also interfere with chewing and speaking, cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel and lead to problems with the jaws.

Orthodontic treatment can help correcting these problems giving you a better smile but, more importantly, creating a healthier mouth.

Your dentist will advise you on how orthodontic treatment could help you.

Crowns and how they improve your teeth

To make sure you have the best smile possible, you may need a crown to cover a tooth and restore it to its normal shape and size.

A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and strength, or to improve its appearance.

The reasons you may need a crown include:

– Protecting a weak tooth
– Holding together parts of a cracked tooth
– Restoring an already broken tooth
– Supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left
– Attaching a dental bridge
– Covering badly-shaped or severely discolored teeth
– Cover a dental implant

If your dentist recommends a crown, it’s probably to correct one of these conditions.

Your dentist’s primary concern, like yours, is helping you keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

The role of technology in modern cosmetic dentistry: How advances in digital imaging are changing the field

Technology has revolutionized the field of cosmetic dentistry, making it easier than ever for dentists to create beautiful, natural-looking smiles. One of the most significant advances in cosmetic dentistry is digital imaging technology. Here's how digital imaging is changing the field of cosmetic dentistry.

Digital Imaging Technology: Digital imaging technology allows dentists to take highly detailed, 3D images of a patient's teeth and mouth. This technology is faster and more accurate than traditional x-rays, and it allows dentists to better diagnose dental problems and create custom treatment plans.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): CAD/CAM technology allows dentists to create custom dental restorations, such as crowns and veneers, using computer software. This technology allows for more precise, accurate restorations that fit better and look more natural.

Intraoral Cameras: Intraoral cameras are tiny cameras that can be inserted into a patient's mouth to take detailed images of the teeth and gums. This technology allows dentists to identify potential problems and areas that need improvement, and it allows patients to see exactly what the dentist sees.

Digital Smile Design: Digital Smile Design is a software that allows dentists to create a custom digital model of a patient's smile. This software allows dentists to show patients a preview of what their new smile will look like before any procedures are performed. Patients can provide feedback and work with their dentist to create the perfect smile.

Technology has played a significant role in advancing the field of cosmetic dentistry, allowing dentists to provide patients with more accurate, precise, and natural-looking results. With the help of digital imaging, CAD/CAM technology, intraoral cameras, and Digital Smile Design, cosmetic dentists can create beautiful, healthy smiles that their patients can be proud of.

Go “Outside the Op” for a Wellness Break with Dr. Kimberly Hubenette

FROM BRAIN SURGEON ASPIRATIONS TO A THRIVING DENTAL PRACTICE, MEET KIMBERLY

In an insightful interview with Dr. Kimberly Hubenette, a seasoned dentist, she shares the story of how she decided to pursue dentistry instead of her initial dream of becoming a brain surgeon. She also discusses her biggest challenges as a practice owner, her unique approach to work-life balance, and her diverse range of interests outside of dentistry. Kimberly exemplifies the pursuit of personal fulfillment and embracing life’s adventures amidst the challenges she’s faced along the way.  

Choosing Dentistry over Medicine: 

During her junior year in high school, Kimberly experienced a transformative realization. Inspired by her father, a dedicated dentist practicing for over five decades, she recognized the unique benefits dentistry offered. The ability to enjoy family vacations together and the realization that patients under dental care seldom face life-threatening circumstances motivated her to pursue a career in dentistry wholeheartedly.

Challenges as a Practice Owner:

As a practice owner, Kimberly emphasizes the importance of building an unstoppable team. She acknowledges the significance of finding the right staff members, particularly those who share her high expectations. While she has been fortunate to have a dedicated and committed team, she admits that finding suitable hygienists and dental assistants has been a challenge, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the hiring process.

Balancing Work and Personal Life:

Kimberly takes a unique approach to maintain a well-balanced life and career. Drawing inspiration from her late husband, who lived an active life despite battling a rare genetic disorder, she embraces outdoor activities and seeks anti-aging and health optimization techniques. Her passion for the outdoors, including hiking, fishing, shooting, and camping, allows her to decompress from the demands of her dental career. Additionally, writing novels and spending time with her beloved dog, Dakota, bring her joy and fulfillment.

On Finding “Your Thing” and Following Your Passions:

Kimberly advises other dentist-owners to explore various interests and not limit themselves. She encourages dentists to try new activities, pursue their passions, and embrace life to the fullest. By continuously seeking experiences and challenges, one can discover their true calling and find fulfillment beyond their dental career.

Unveiling Hidden Talents:

Beyond her professional achievements, Kimberly shares some lesser-known aspects of her life. She enjoys trap shooting with clay pigeons and has a passion for bird hunting, aligning with her belief in the circle of life when she consumes what she shoots. Additionally, she surprises many with her background as a ballerina for 12 years, demonstrating her diverse range of talents and interests.

Memorable Experiences and Inspirations:

One of Kimberly’s most memorable achievements is hiking Half Dome, an impressive feat that embodies her adventurous spirit and determination. She draws inspiration from a quote she holds dear: “Character is when you do the right thing even when nobody is watching.” Furthermore, she openly shares her regret of not taking more vacations with her late husband while he was still in good health, underscoring the importance of cherishing meaningful experiences with loved ones.

Admiration for Family Resilience:

Kimberly deeply admires her great grandmother’s resilience and perseverance. Overcoming numerous obstacles in her life, including separation from her husband and enduring torture during Japan’s invasion of China, her great grandmother’s sacrifices for her family exemplify strength and love. Kimberly’s great grandmother’s remarkable journey serves as a constant source of inspiration in her own life.

Dream Dinner Guest:

Kimberly would have loved to have dinner with Elvis Presley! 

Building a strong relationship with your dentist

You’ll give yourself the best chance of good oral health if you build a strong relationship with your dentist.

That can sometimes mean asking the right questions and helping them to assist you in the best way possible.

So you want to make sure you have a dentist who will first of all explain techniques that you should use to help prevent dental health problems. They should be willing to show you step-by-step what you need to do.

You should also choose a dentist who is willing to take time to answer your questions, especially when they are recommending a course of treatment.

If you don’t understand any part of what your dentist recommends, don’t be afraid to ask for more information.

You may want to ask if there are other options to the solution they recommend. For example:

– How do the options differ in cost?
– Which solution will last the longest?
– Do all the options solve the problem?

Ask the dentist which treatments are absolutely necessary, which are elective and Which are cosmetic.

Ask which procedures are urgently needed, and which ones are less urgent. Your dentist will help you prioritize between problems which need immediate attention and those that are less urgent.

Often, treatment can be planned over a period of time but make sure you understand any consequences of delaying treatment.

It’s naturally also important to make sure that you are given full information about fees and payment plans before treatment is scheduled.

Biohacking Our Genes Using Celsus One® and Nrf2 Activation

 

HACKING THE GENETIC CODE TO HELP MY PATIENTS LIVE A PREVENTIVE LIFESTYLE

In my practice, I am a “biohacker,” helping my patients become healthy at the cellular level, using biomarkers, saliva tests, blood work, and new-age supplements; hacking the genetic code to help my patients live a preventive lifestyle. I often tell my patients that their mouth is an indication of their internal body tissue health. Incorporating the genetic analysis from the Celsus One™ report helps me establish personalized health recommendations utilizing genetic risk factors related to the oral and systemic inflammatory response.  

Utilizing genetics in conjunction with products that activate NRF1 (Nuclear respiratory factor 1) and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2) pathways to create internal cellular molecules can turn back the aging process and become part of a full preventive program. Considering that there are over 200 disease processes that start with inflammation, it’s exciting that Celsus One™ shows 8 biomarkers associated with periodontal, diabetes,
cardiovascular and arthritis.

Since the lab results show the patient’s own unique genetic makeup, health providers can educate patients on
how the genotypes of certain gene markers affect their long-term systemic health. The three innate gene markers: Beta-defensin 1 (DEFB1), CD14 (CD14), and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and five acquired gene markers:
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) Interleukin 1 (IL1), Interleukin 6 (IL6) Interleukin 17A (IL17A) Matrix Metallopeptidase 3 (MMP3) have different variations in degree of severity in association with inflammatory disease processes. The variation for personalizing patient care helps me to decide on periodontal therapy adjuncts,
frequency of periodontal recare, environmental challenges, and ultimately how to best educate my patients in being proactive. My patient’s feel empowered knowing they can potentially influence the effect of their genetics.

Protandim®, Nrf2 Activator™, has 5 patents with over 25 independent peer reviews found on www.pubmed.gov, and is one of my favorite product lines that I have incorporated into my practice. (Previously written: It works at the cellular level to activate ATP and mitochondria and has been clinically proven to reduce oxidative damage by 40% within 30 days). Correction: Protandim Nrf1 activator increases ATP and Mitochondria function and Nrf2 activation reduces oxidative stress by 40% within 30 days. Oxidative stress (free radical damage) is a root cause of all disease processes. Nrf2 is a protein that regulates the expression of antioxidant proteins that protect against
oxidative damage triggered by injury and inflammation. The Nrf2 protein remains dormant within each cell of our body, unable to move or perform its task until released by an Nrf2 activator.

The Nrf2 genetic pathway turns on over 400 transcription genes such as GSTP1, which is related to detoxification.
Prior to the Protandim® product line, Sulforaphane, found in broccoli sprouts, was the “gold” standard of naturally occurring Nrf2 activators. Studies have shown that Protandim® Nrf2 Activator™ is 135-fold more powerful than Sulforaphane. Protandim® Nrf2 is composed of 5 herbs that each in their own right have an ayurvedic effect, but also have been proven to work better together synergistically rather than each component individually. A second
activator, Protandim® NRF1, works as a “One-Two Punch,” increasing ATP, mitochondrial DNA transcription, replication activity, and quality of sleep.

I am successfully helping my patients utilize their personalized Celsus One™ results to biohack their genetics, using proven modern tools such as Nrf1 and Nrf2 activators to improve their environments. Reducing systemic
inflammation using the most modern science and supplements helps me stay on the cutting edge and I am definitely a BIOHACKER for life.

To find out more about this topic please go to http://www.synergydentalgroup.net/ and contact Dr. Kimberly
Hubenette.

**To learn more about becoming an OralDNA Provider: Text “OralDNA” to 43766**