At Advances in Dentistry, we take a whole-body approach to oral health, integrating the principles of functional health into our everyday care. Functional health recognizes that the body is an interconnected system, and dental health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. One of the key areas where this connection is most evident is inflammation, especially as it relates to periodontal disease, systemic illness, and biocompatibility of dental materials.
Periodontal Disease: More Than Just a Gum Problem
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It is caused by bacterial biofilms (plaque) that trigger the body’s immune response, leading to inflammation and tissue destruction.
But recent research has shown that periodontal disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth. The inflammation it causes can have profound effects on the entire body.
Link to Heart Disease and Stroke
Numerous studies have found a connection between gum disease and cardiovascular disease. A landmark paper published in the Journal of Periodontology (Tonetti et al., 2013) concluded that “periodontal therapy can reduce systemic inflammation and improve endothelial function, both of which are important for cardiovascular health.”
Another study in the American Heart Association Journal noted that individuals with periodontal disease have a significantly increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, likely due to the systemic inflammatory burden and potential for bacterial migration from the mouth to the bloodstream.
Link to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
Emerging research also links periodontal disease to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. A 2019 study published in Science Advances found Porphyromonas gingivalis, a primary pathogen in gum disease, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. The study suggested that chronic oral infections may play a role in the development or progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Mercury Fillings: A Toxic Legacy
For decades, dental amalgam—a material containing about 50% elemental mercury—was commonly used for fillings. While amalgam is durable, mercury is a known neurotoxin that can vaporize and be absorbed into the body, potentially contributing to systemic health issues.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mercury is particularly harmful to the kidneys and nervous system, and even low levels of continuous exposure can have adverse effects.
Our Stance at Advances in Dentistry
At Advances in Dentistry, we do not use mercury-containing amalgam fillings. Instead, we use composite resin and ceramic materials that are biocompatible, aesthetically superior, and free from heavy metals. We can also safely remove and replace old amalgam fillings following strict safety protocols to protect both patients and staff.
Metals in Crowns and Partial Dentures: The Inflammation Risk
Not all metals are created equal. Many traditional dental crowns and partial dentures are made from base metals like nickel, cobalt, or chromium. These metals can cause allergic reactions or trigger immune responses in sensitive individuals.
Inflammation and Immune Reactions
Research has shown that some base metals can induce chronic low-grade inflammation, especially in people predisposed to metal sensitivity. A study published in Contact Dermatitis (Thyssen & Menné, 2010) linked exposure to nickel and cobalt with skin and mucosal inflammation, which may extend systemically.
Our Biocompatible Solution: Titanium and All-Ceramic Restorations
At Advances in Dentistry, we prioritize biocompatibility and long-term health. We use titanium implants, which are widely regarded as the most biocompatible metal for use in the human body. Titanium integrates naturally with bone through a process called osseointegration, and it rarely triggers immune reactions.
For crowns, we offer all-ceramic restorations made with advanced CAD/CAM technology.
These restorations are:
- Metal-free
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Durable
- Biologically inert
We also offer metal-free partial dentures when appropriate, further reducing potential sources of inflammation or hypersensitivity.
Clean Water for Clean Dentistry
At Advances in Dentistry, we uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and patient safety. That extends to the water we use during dental procedures. Unlike many offices that rely on municipal tap water, we only use distilled or sterile water in all of our dental lines and devices.
Tap water can contain impurities, bacteria, and chemical residues that, while safe for drinking, are not ideal for use in surgical or restorative dental procedures. Our use of distilled water eliminates that risk and reflects our commitment to total-body health.
Diet and Inflammation: How Food Affects Your Teeth, Gums, and Healing
At Advances in Dentistry in Oklahoma City, we take a functional health approach to dentistry, which means we care not just about your teeth—but about the whole-body effects of oral health. One of the most overlooked factors in both dental disease and recovery is your diet.
Inflammatory Foods That Harm Your Oral Health
Eating a highly processed, modern diet filled with seed oils, refined carbs, and sugars can lead to chronic inflammation, which directly impacts your teeth, gums, and ability to heal after dental procedures.
- Seed oils (like canola, soybean, corn, and sunflower) are high in omega-6 fatty acids. These oils can increase inflammation throughout the body—including the gums—and may slow post-operative healing.
- Refined carbohydrates and sugars feed harmful oral bacteria, leading to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. They also increase insulin spikes and systemic inflammation.
- Processed foods often contain additives and preservatives that burden the immune system and may worsen inflammatory conditions.
An Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Healthy Teeth and Gums
A low-carb, nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet can significantly improve your oral and systemic health. At Advances in Dentistry, we recommend increasing your intake of:
- Lean proteins like wild-caught fish, pasture-raised poultry, eggs, and grass-fed beef – essential for tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and post-surgical healing
- Healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, and omega-3s – these reduce inflammation and support cellular health
- Colorful vegetables and fiber-rich plant foods – help regulate blood sugar, support a healthy oral microbiome, and deliver essential antioxidants
- Mineral-rich foods like leafy greens, bone broth, and almonds – supply calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus critical for tooth remineralization and jawbone integrity
Nutrition Supports Faster Healing and Stronger Teeth
Improving your nutrition can:
- Decrease your risk of gum disease and tooth decay
- Enhance healing after dental implants, extractions, or gum therapy
- Support a better immune response to reduce infection risk
- Help manage chronic inflammation that contributes to heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline
The Functional Health Advantage at Advances in Dentistry
Our approach integrates:
- Biocompatible materials
- Minimally invasive techniques
- Whole-body wellness
- Patient-centered care
We understand that oral health is a gateway to systemic health, and every material, procedure, and protocol we use is designed to support your entire well-being.
Whether you’re looking to replace old mercury fillings, find metal-free restorations, or manage gum disease in a way that supports your total health, we are here to help.
Schedule a Consultation in Oklahoma City
If you’re ready to take a functional approach to dental health, schedule a consultation with Advances in Dentistry in Oklahoma City today. With over 30 years of experience and a reputation for excellence, Dr. Corbyn Rhodes and our team are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral and systemic health—without compromise.
Contact us at 405-751-6996 or visit www.advancesindentistry.com to learn more. We proudly serve Oklahoma City, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Moore, Yukon, and surrounding areas.