We all know that brushing and flossing are important—but what if everything you thought you knew about dental care wasn’t actually the full truth? What if some of the most common dental practices could actually be doing more harm than good? And what if there were a way to take care of your teeth that also supported your whole body health?
My guest today, Dr. Lauren Poole, is on a mission to change the way we think about oral health. She’s a dentist and the founder of Sweet Truth Dental, a holistic dental practice in Brentwood that focuses on safe, non-toxic, whole-body dentistry.
After years in traditional dentistry, she realized that many standard practices—like the use of fluoride, certain materials, and even conventional approaches to cavities—weren’t actually helping patients the way they should. So, she dove into research and training in biological and functional dentistry, learning how to detoxify and reimagine oral care for a healthier future.
As a mom of three, she’s passionate about empowering families to make better choices for their kids’ oral health. Today, we’re talking about simple, practical ways to optimize your daily dental routine, whether you’re an adult looking to uplevel your habits or a parent wondering how to best care for your child’s teeth. We’re covering fluoride, jaw development, when kids should start seeing a dentist, and the biggest myths about oral health!
And, of course, we’re kicking things off with a behind-the-scenes look at what a holistic dentist’s morning and nighttime routines actually look like—so you can take notes and upgrade your own!
I know I personally left the conversation feeling empowered and informed about how to take better care of my family’s dental health, and I can’t wait for you to feel the same. Let’s dive in!
Rethinking Root Canals
One of the hot topics we discussed was root canals. Dr. Poole explained that root canals are often misunderstood and can be quite controversial.
Traditionally, a root canal is performed when the nerve of a tooth is infected or damaged, usually due to trauma or bacteria. The procedure involves removing the nerve tissue and filling the tooth with a material, often followed by placing a crown on top.
Dr. Poole emphasized that not all root canals are created equal. If a root canal is performed due to trauma without bacterial involvement, the prognosis is generally better. However, if bacteria are involved, there is a higher risk of reinfection.
This is where the conversation gets REALLY interesting—Dr. Poole pointed out that the real issue isn’t the root canal itself but the chronic infections that can arise from it. Many patients may not even realize they have an infection because the nerve, which signals pain, has been removed.
To assess the health of existing root canals, Dr. Poole uses advanced imaging techniques like cone beam CT scans to identify any hidden infections. She believes that the focus should be on preventing chronic infections rather than solely on the root canal procedure itself.
The Fluoride Debate
Fluoride is another contentious topic in dentistry, and Dr. Poole is firmly against its use. She explained that fluoride is a toxin and that its presence in our water systems and dental products poses risks that outweigh any potential benefits.
Dr. Poole advocates for alternatives like hydroxyapatite, a natural mineral that can help remineralize teeth without the harmful effects of fluoride.
For parents, she stressed the importance of educating themselves about fluoride and its implications for their children’s health. Dr. Poole encourages moms to seek fluoride-free dental products and to focus on good oral hygiene practices, as well as a healthy diet, to support their children’s dental health.
Mouth Breathing and Jaw Development
We also delved into the topic of mouth breathing and its impact on jaw development. Dr. Poole explained that many children today are mouth breathers, which can lead to underdeveloped jaws and airway issues. This is a growing concern, as proper jaw development is crucial for overall health.
Dr. Poole highlighted the importance of hard, crunchy foods in promoting healthy jaw growth. She noted that many modern diets consist of soft foods, which do not provide the necessary stimulation for jaw development. Encouraging children to chew on crunchy vegetables and fruits can help strengthen their jaws and improve their overall dental health.
Additionally, we discussed the role of myofunctional therapy, which focuses on training the muscles of the mouth and face to promote proper tongue posture. This can significantly impact jaw development and airway health. Dr. Poole mentioned tools like the Myo Munchee, which can help children develop better oral habits.
The Importance of Oral Health
Throughout our conversation, Dr. Poole emphasized that oral health is closely linked to overall wellness. Chronic inflammation in the mouth can lead to systemic health issues, including autoimmune disorders and even certain cancers. She encourages everyone to prioritize their dental health and to seek out a dentist who aligns with their holistic values.
Dr. Poole’s approach to dentistry is refreshing and empowering. She believes that patients should be educated about their options and that dental care should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. By focusing on holistic practices, we can make better choices for our oral health and, ultimately, our overall well-being.
Clearly, this episode with Dr. Lauren Poole was eye-opening and filled with tons of valuable insights. From rethinking root canals and fluoride to understanding the importance of jaw development and mouth breathing, Dr. Poole provided a wealth of information that can help us all make more informed decisions about our dental health.
If you’re interested in exploring a more holistic approach to dentistry, I highly recommend seeking out a practitioner like Dr. Poole. And, if you’re local to Nashville, be sure to check out Sweet Truth Dental!
Remember, your oral health is an integral part of your overall wellness, and taking the time to educate yourself can lead to better health outcomes for you and your family.
