Is There A Battery In Your Mouth?

By Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN (Certified Clinical Nutritionist)

That’s a strange question to ask or is it? Did you know that most metals found in your mouth have the ability to create an electrical charge? This charge can be responsible for numerous side effects that are rarely associated with the dental work found in your mouth.

Galvanic current is a term that has been used in dentistry for over 100 years. It is a condition created by the presence of dissimilar metals in the oral cavity of the teeth and gums, with saliva serving as the electrolyte. Have you ever felt a “shock” to your teeth caused by a piece of tin foil or a spoon that touches a sliver or mercury filling in your mouth? If you answer yes to this question, you’ve experienced a galvanic event.

There are several different types of galvanism: 1) A silver/mercury filling is placed in opposition or adjacent to a tooth restored with gold. These dissimilar metals in conjunction with saliva and body fluids constitute an electric cell. When brought into contact, the circuit is shorted, the flow of electrical current passes through the pulp, and the patient experiences pain. 2) Dissimilar metals coming into contact when the mandible (lower jaw) and maxillary (upper jaw) teeth occlude (come together). 3) Two adjacent teeth are restored with dissimilar metals. The current flows from metal to metal through the dentine, bone and tissue fluids of both teeth resulting in discomfort and tooth sensitivity.

We learned about the galvanic current in dental school. We’ve read about it in dental journals. However, how often do dentists follow the protocols that are necessary to avoid this condition from occurring? The dental profession needs to be more aware of the negative effects that are caused by galvanic currents and be committed to prevent the unwanted, and often harmful, electrical charges or imbalances from occurring.

Other than tooth sensitivity, galvanism can cause a metallic or salty taste in the mouth, increase salivary secretion, and burning or tingling sensation of the tongue. Other systemic complications may include headaches, chronic fatigue, memory loss, sleep deprivation and even irritability due to its effects to the central nervous system.

The brain operates on 7 to 9 nano-amps which is 1000 times weaker than the currents resulting from non-precious metals found in the oral cavity. That is the difference between touching a 9 volt battery and sticking your finger in the light socket as far as the brain is concerned. Since the upper teeth are less than 2 inches from the brain, it is of concern that adding this much excess electrical activity has the potential of creating mis-directed impulses in the brain.

How can you tell if you have a galvanic current occurring in your mouth? The good news is that it can be measured. An electrical potential meter known as the Rita Meter can be used to measure electrical charges on fillings, crowns and metallic appliances. (Normal readings range from +2/-2 micro-amps.)

Healthy gold crowns or composite resins (tooth colored fillings) most often register a positive charge. When they register a negative charge greater than -2, it usually indicates either decay under an old filling or there’s an amalgam/mercury filling under a crown.

If these symptoms sound familiar or if you’ve had 4 or 5 different dentists caring for your dental needs over the years, chances are much greater that there are several dissimilar metals to be found in your mouth.

Metals will not necessarily always cause the galvanic effect in the mouth. It depends on the specific metal and alloy being used along with quantity and placement in the mouth. However, knowing that some of the above symptoms could be dental related may provide you with an opportunity to evaluate your mouth from a different perspective and discover once and for all if there is a galvanic current present in one or multiple sites in your mouth.

Solution? Remove the offending material(s) connected with that particular tooth or teeth in order to reduce this unwanted electrical charge and create a balanced condition. Biological dentistry views galvanism as an obstacle to achieving overall health and wellness. Keep it simple, keep it safe. A balanced body is a healthy body.

Conscious Sedation for the Biological Patient

By Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN (Certified Clinical Nutritionist)

The modern day use of dental anesthesia has been effectively administered for over 50 years. Its purpose, of course, was to reduce or eliminate the painful effects associated with most dental procedures.

Local anesthetics such as lidocaine, polocaine, mepivicaine, septicaine and marcaine are routinely used in our office along with nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and valium as needed to ensure that our patients can experience a safe, and even a relaxing, dental visit.

But for those individuals who wish to complete all their dental work at one time or to successfully treat an anxious or phobic condition, conscious sedation is the preferred choice for these patients. Providing this service to our patients has been a well received addition to our practice.

Conscious sedation is defined as a technique in which the use of a drug, or drugs, produces a state of depression of the central nervous system enabling treatment to be carried out while verbal contact with the patient is maintained throughout the period of sedation.

Patients usually have no memory of the entire dental procedure. This leads the patient to think they were asleep during the treatment when, in reality, they were awake, but comfortable, at all times.

In our office, we provide a two team, multi-disciplinary approach for conscious sedation. As the dentist, I’m given the opportunity to focus solely on the dental procedures because the anesthesiologist (present during the entire procedure) monitors and attends to our patient’s sedation needs.

Midazolam (Versed) is the drug of choice for conscious sedation. In general, midazolam has a fast-acting, short-lived sedative effect when given intravenously, achieving sedation within one to five minutes and peaking within 30 minutes. The effects of midazolam typically last one hour but may persist for six hours (including the amnesic effect). Patients who receive midazolam for conscious sedation should not be allowed to drive home after the procedure.

The proper equipment must also be in place and organized for monitoring the patient's blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, level of consciousness, and, most important, the oxygen saturation (the measure of oxygen perfusion inside the body) with a pulse oximeter (a machine that provides a continuous real-time recording of oxygenation).

The vital signs are monitored by the anesthesiologist before the start of the administration of medications and then continuously monitored thereafter until the procedure is completed.

Choosing the proper dental anesthesia can certainly make a significant difference in the anticipated outcome for your dental care. Conscious sedation may be the right choice for you. Our ultimate goal is to provide a safe, comfortable and relaxing environment with your dentist/anesthesiologist team working together as we perform our biological services for you.

A Natural Choice for Toothpastes and Oral Antiseptics

By Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN

Offering our patients a biological approach to dental care means that I’m constantly evaluating new materials and dental products that claim to promote dental health and wellness.

Some of the most frequently asked questions by our patients are; “What’s the best toothpaste to use?” and “What kind of mouth rinse do you recommend?”

After years of research, I can say with confidence that I’ve discovered several products that have gained my support. (I have no financial interest in these companies or products.) I like the predictable results that my patients have experienced over the years.

When it comes to toothpastes and oral antiseptics, I was looking for a simple, yet natural formula that avoided the use of chemical additives and other questionable ingredients that may affect your health. Accumulated over the last 8 years, I’ve put together four products that enhance each one’s attributes in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

After starting to use these products, my patients have expressed their gratitude for the impressive results that they’ve observed in their mouths. I’ve personally witnessed the improvement of compromised periodontal conditions, the elimination of halitosis (bad breath), and a general sense of well being of numerous patients’ oral hygiene. All of the following products are made by The Dental Herb Company.

The first one is Antiseptic Tooth & Gum Tonic which is far more than a mouthwash. It’s a valuable antimicrobial, oral rinse that contains natural herbs and essential oils that have been used for centuries to maintain healthy tissue. For the first time these botanical agents have been combined into a stimulating formula with ingredients that include: vegetable glycerin, extracts of Echinacea, pure essential oils of peppermint, red thyme, eucalyptus globulus and lavender. There is no alcohol, colored dyes, artificial chemicals, flavorings, preservatives, or sweeteners in this product.

The dense concentration of this Tonic makes it very cost effective, a small amount goes a long way. Using the Tonic with proper oral home care, combined with regular professional maintenance, is far less costly than complicated corrective treatments.

Tooth & Gum Paste is a unique toothpaste with the natural herbs and essentials oils found in the mouth rinse. It does not have any fluoride or sodium lauryl sulfate (a common foaming agent).

Under-The-Gum Irrigant is a potent antimicrobial formula used for more serious periodontal situations with the use of a Water Pik at home.

Tooth & Gum Spritz is a non aerosol, mouth spray that will freshen your breath for hours.

After reviewing these natural choices for tooth pastes and oral antiseptics, I compared these to the more “popular” commercial brands. The popular products certainly appeal to our senses: if it smells good, tastes good and looks good it must be healthy for us too. Right?

Upon investigation, I came to the conclusion that consumers should read the labels more carefully before purchasing these products. They may think twice about what’s best for their own health and well being. Even though small amounts of the chemicals shown below are used in these products, my concern is the bio-accumulation effect that may occur with chronic usage.

Along with the active ingredients of Eucalyptol, Menthol, Thymol and Methyl salicylate, you’ll find the following: Alcohol ranging from 14.3% - 26.9%. The large percentage of alcohol can actually aggravate dry mouth and cause bad breath. Polysorbate 80, an emulsifier or lubricating agent, that may cause infertility. Sodium benzoate, type of salt, that may occur naturally in some foods but is more likely to be chemically produced and added as a preservative to foods or liquids. Poloxamer 407 which was reported in The Australian newspaper, November 18, 2006, that this common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash can cause high cholesterol. Artificial colorings and dyes are used to enhance the visual senses.

All of these products also contained a general warning: “In case of accidental ingestion, seek professional assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.” Sounds a little intimidating to me, what do you think?

I strongly believe the natural choices for toothpastes and oral antiseptics are safer to use and as effective, if not more so, as the more publicized brands. The more natural elements you expose your body to, the better off you’ll be. Whatever you do today will certainly make an impact on your life tomorrow.

The products offered by The Dental Herb Company are available only through your health care providers. If you would like more information, please contact our office for further assistance.

Microscopes and Oral Spirochetes: Visual Images With Impact

Five years ago, I purchased a phase contrast microscope for our hygiene department. My intention was not to become a microbiologist but to observe and identify live samples of the bacterial activity occurring in our patients’ mouths. I was particularly interested in the subgingival areas (below the gum level) where it’s difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing.

Under normal, healthy conditions, our microscopic slides show acceptable level of bacteria, such as rods, cocci, vibrios, white blood cells, and a few red blood cells. Compromised situations in our patients’ health usually reveal a different picture. These slides show a high level of bacterial activity. The bacteria, especially the rods and spirochetes, are responsible for the bleeding and destruction of your periodontal pockets.

When the oral cavity begins to break down with the presence of inflammation and disease, the tooth and body connection concept reminds me that this is a local event occurring in response to a more serious systemic complication.

The information that I discovered about the biological effects of oral spirochetes was alarming. These long, slender, thin, corkscrew shaped microbes are found in the oral cavity in various numbers and forms. They have been strongly implicated as playing a role in the etiology of periodontal disease.

If these microorganisms are discovered, irrigation of the tissue with a bactericidal agent should be employed prior to any dental treatment to avoid causing a bacteremia (bacteria circulating throughout the blood stream). These include diluted bleach, chlorohexidine, or a product that I like to use in our office called Tooth and Gum Tonic which consists of botanical anti-microbials. All of these will kill any active pathogenic organisms.

Antibiotics do not eliminate oral spirochetes as in other spirochetal diseases. Antibiotics only force the spirochetes into a more protected spore form thus triggering a survival strategy that allows them to resurface at a later date.

Even more dangerous are long term exposures to spirochetes. Long term exposure can develop into systemic chronic inflammatory diseases that catch up with people during later, more vulnerable, years. Oral spirochetes associated with chronic conditions are similar to those found in syphilis, Lyme disease and atherosclerotic heart disease. Another spirochete that is thought to populate the gingival sulcus is Helicobacter pylori which is the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers and cancer.

Most spirochetes are free-living and anaerobic. Therefore, they flourish in an environment that supports this condition. Acidosis (an acidic condition of the body) which reduces available oxygen to the cells can contribute to the increased presence of this bacteria.

The only way to fight the disease when it reaches this stage is to keep the immune system strong by practicing good oral hygiene, physical health, proper nutrition, and appropriately handling chronic stress. My personal experience has taught me to provide a microscopic evaluation of the saliva when its pH is measured below 6.5. At this level, spirochetal activity is often observed.

Biological dentistry has shown that not only the mouth needs to be treated but that the entire body also needs the appropriate attention to support and maintain one’s overall health and well being. If oral spirochetes are detected during an examination, appropriate measures will be taken to avoid this insidious bacterium from causing any further ill effects to our patients.

Introducing the phase contrast microscope’s real time visual images to our patients, of their own saliva, during their regular checkups has made a significant contribution to both their understanding of the impact of spirochetes and their motivation to maintain a healthy oral environment. A periodic microscopic evaluation should be the norm during regular checkups.

We offer this examination to our patients once a year and at no charge. It provides a quick, easy and painless evaluation of oral bacteria and offers immediate feedback before the patient leaves the office. It has become an excellent patient motivator to promote healthy lifestyle changes when needed.

Biological Dentistry: Fact or Fiction?

When we talk about biological dentistry, we’re supporting a philosophy that promotes a whole body approach to healthcare that works with the body and its immune system. As a dentist, my initial concern in treating the oral cavity is to remove dental decay and infection along with supporting periodontal health. However, as a biological dentist, I know that the mouth is an extension of the entire body. The negative or positive effects from the teeth and gums can be felt throughout the body.

Biological dentistry evaluates each patient as an individual who requires special needs based on his or her unique make-up. The term biocompatibility is used quite frequently in biological dentistry to describe the importance in choosing specific dental materials that appear best suited for each patient.

Fact or fiction? The choice of dental materials used in the mouth does not have any effect on your health in general. Although biological dentists do not use mercury in their practices, this still is a controversial topic that persists in dentistry today. In June 2008, the FDA issued a precautionary note on silver fillings (which consists of approximately 50% mercury): “Silver dental fillings contain mercury, and the government for the first time is warning that they may pose a safety concern for pregnant women and young children.”

As is often the case, the FDA lags far behind a large amount of scientific study that is clear on this topic. Therefore, if the FDA is finally making even this mild of a statement, it’s a pretty sure bet that there’s truth to this message. Pregnant women and children are more susceptible to attacks on one’s immune system than others. However, that doesn’t mean that the rest of us don’t suffer some form of ill health due to the same attacks on our bodies.

An even stronger statement of evidence comes from my patients in their own words. Their experiences and the changes they’ve gone through show what really matters when someone’s health is at stake. In 1998 I began asking my patients to give me their personal feedback regarding the condition of their general health and well being once their mercury fillings were replaced with alternative materials.

Since that date, I’ve recorded over 250 testimonials from our patients. Although, due to my study of the subject I knew there would be some changes, the responses that I received still surprised me at first. However, now I’m confident that each and every testimonial provides further evidence that the oral cavity plays an important role in total body health. Is mercury a biocompatible material that can be used safely in the oral cavity? Or is it one of many factors that weaken our immune systems?

The following testimonials are what some of my patients have reported in regards to the mercury issue:

Metallic taste gone. Annetta, 78, Female. I noticed metallic taste was gone after mercury fillings were out. My complexion was much better. I have more energy, no more allergies or sinus problems.

Medical conditions improve. Gloria, 56, Female. Since my amalgam fillings were removed a number of medical conditions have improved: Anxiety and depression have eased and lifted. Big improvements in my ability to concentrate. Big improvements in the pain and fatigue from the fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. This has all come to pass since this dental work was done, in spite of working a high stress retail management job with weird hours and great physical demands.

Sinus problems improve. Ivan, 58, Male. Before I had the metals (mercury fillings) removed I had all kinds of sinus problems. Since they are gone the sinus problems are nil – one year later.

More energy – less headaches. Susan, 56, Female. Since my mercury fillings were removed, life has improved so much that it is hard to remember what it was like before. I still need 8-9 hours of sleep most nights, but I no longer need a 2-3 hour nap every day - I no longer need 20 minute cat naps every couple of hours. I go weeks without headaches instead of days. I can focus and retain much more information I don't catch every cold I'm exposed to – I haven't had any bronchial infections or yeast infections – they were chronic before. As I approach my sixties I definitely feel better than I did in my thirties.

Fact or fiction? Biological dentistry offers a healthy choice for patients not only for their mouths but also for their overall health and wellness. Although there are no guarantees, I believe the results that I’m witnessing from patients support this statement.

The body is a compensatory system that is designed to heal if given the opportunity. If there is a sensitivity or biological imbalance to the use of mercury or any other material in the oral cavity, then it simply makes sense that these individuals begin to feel better once the offending source is removed.

Our patients make informed decisions regarding their health based on all the scientific research, medical literature and patient testimonials that are presented to them for review.

As a heath care provider, if we see an opportunity to help our patients improve their health, it is our professional obligation to do so. It is our obligation, as dentists, to investigate new opportunities that provide a holistic and biological support system aimed at improving people’s lives now and in their years to come.

Vitamin C Connections to Dentistry

By Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a very important nutrient. Its therapeutic use became popularized in the 1970s, thanks to research performed by Dr. Linus Pauling. He is well known for endorsing that the common cold could be controlled by an adequate intake of Vitamin C.

He deserves an enormous amount of credit for educating the world on the many benefits of Vitamin C and its ability in destroying cancer cells. Although he was ridiculed by the medical establishment on both of these issues, many years later his views are much more highly regarded as being accurate.

Although not firmly established by clinical trials, Vitamin C, a antioxidant, has gained strong support within the health care community in assisting the body to achiever the following: reduce the risks of cancer, strokes and hypertension; reduce the histamine levels in the body, which trigger allergy and asthma attacks; assist the body in the production of collagen, a basic component of connective tissue; aid in teeth and bone formation and to keep your gums healthy.

Vitamin C also supports the immune system, aids in wound healing and is an antioxidant that protects against free radical damage to the body. This statement is what intrigued me to learn more about the positive affects of Vitamin C and its use in biological dentistry.

Dental procedures, as we all know, can create trauma, pain and even post operative infection following surgical procedures. What I wasn’t aware of, until a few years ago, is the natural healing effects Vitamin C has to offer for my patients.

Have you ever felt weak, fatigued or even sick after a visit to your dentist? Anytime there is bleeding during a dental procedure, whether it’s simply a cleaning, periodontal surgery, tooth extraction, or even a small filling placed in a tooth, bacteria can be introduced into your system. This bacterea originates in the oral cavity and can spread throughout the entire body. The strength of your immune system determines if you become ill or not during the next few days.

Protecting yourself before hand with a prophylactic nutrient like Vitamin C certainly makes sense. During the last year, we’ve developed a basic protocol designed to protect every one of our patients who receive dental treatments in our office.

1 – 2 grams of Lypo-Spheric Vitamin C is administered orally before our dental procedures begin. This form of Vitamin C provides an excellent rate of absorption, boosters the immune system, and simply makes you feel better.

Over the last two years, I’ve continued to promote a holistic concept of the tooth and body connection. This connection reveals the importance of Vitamin C therapy in dentistry.

We must learn how to protect the body by stimulating the immune system whenever possible. Vitamin C’s track record has been very impressive in the past and I believe it will continue to surprise people with its healing properties in the future.

FREE Seminar!!

Free Monthly Seminar

For Both New and Current Patients.

Are Your Teeth and Gums Making You Ill?
Discover The Tooth And Body Connection.

A Healthy Mouth Supports A Healthy Body. Discover how infection and illness transfer between the teeth and body. Understand how the principles of Biological Dentistry focus on your overall health and wellness and why we've chosen it as the best practice of Dentistry.

The discussion reveals dental materials compatible with wellness; mercury-free amalgams, tooth-colored fillings; the impact of dental procedures; the need to balance your acid-alkaline body chemistry; and nutritional therapy that supports a healthy mouth.

Presented by: Dr. Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN (Certified Clinical Nutritionist). A Healthy Choice For Dental Care.
When: Third Tuesday Each Month, 6:30-8:00 pm. Call to verify the date and reserve your space at 314-997-2550.
Where: At Dr. Rehme's office.
Be sure to read our Patient Success Stories.

What you'll gain from the seminar:

• Understand Dr. Rehme's Philosophy of Biological Dentistry as a healthy choice for dental care
• Discover the teeth and body connection to preventing illness and staying healthy
• Expand your knowledge of the impact of nutrition on the health of your teeth and gums
• Answers to your questions about dentistry

Topics: Open forum with questions and answers covers:

• How infection and illness transfer between teeth and body
• Differences in dental materials and their influence on wellness
• Biocompatible dental materials and Materials Reactivity Testing
• Importance of balancing your acid-alkaline body chemistry
• Mercury-free, tooth-colored fillings and the alternatives to "silver" fillings that are over 50% mercury
• Impact of dental procedures
• Nutritional therapy that supports healthy teeth and gums
• And Much More!