Pearl powder was the Chinese imperial family's dental care product for thousands of years. Chinese emperors, empresses, and royalty took pearl powder internally and externally brushed their teeth with it for stronger and whiter teeth.

It is recorded history that Egyptian queen Cleopatra took pearl powder internally for beauty.

In Mayan ruins, archaeologists discovered human teeth that were more than 1,000 years old, which had pearl fillings in the cavities. To their amazement, the pearl filling had grown and fused together with the teeth to form a seamless, cavity-free tooth structure!

In 1990, Lopez E and group of French scientists at The Physiology Research Lab at The National Natural History Museum in Paris decided to investigate pearl fillings as compared with empty cavities and with cavities patched with the normal acrylic polymer filling used by dentists called PMMA.

They found the pearl tooth filling induced the formation of new layers of bone and made existing teeth stronger. There was no new bone formation in the empty cavities or in those filled with PMMA. But they were astonished to find that PMMA actually causes necrosis - or cell death - of the surrounding bone cells. It also changes bone architecture and causes a significant reduction in bone formation and mineralization. They make existing teeth weaker. Astonishingly, the tooth-filling material used by dentists today is put to shame in comparison to the pearl tooth fillings the Mayans used over two millennia ago!

The significance of the above study is beyond just finding the best tooth-filling material imaginable. Although this alone is incredibly exciting, considering the toxic and biologically damaging tooth fillings we are offered in most conventional modern dentist offices today. A French study, and other studies like it, demonstrate that pearl is osteogenic, meaning it can stimulate new bone formation and make existing bone stronger.

Holistic dentist, Dr. Reiley, D.D.S. in California, has been recommending his patients use a pearl powder product called Pearlcium and noticed remarkable results from his patients. Their teeth became significantly whiter.

"I have never seen a product that was able to remove stains from teeth until now. This is one of the best home care products I have found in my 20 years as a dentist for patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Finally, I can recommend to my patients a product that is both easy to apply and of high quality. Thanks again!"

What makes pearl powder such a treasure for the beauty and health of your teeth?
Modern scientific research is revealing the mechanism by which pearl helps our teeth and gums become healthier.

Research by French scientists revealed pearl can stimulate bone builder cells, osteoblasts, to multiply. This leads to more bone cells being regenerated for filling cavities and making existing teeth stronger.

How does pearl repair the receding gum?
This has to go to pearl's ability to regenerate connective tissue. It was discovered, in another experiment by French scientists, pearl can also stimulate the repair and regeneration of the fibroblasts and enhance the fibroblasts' production of collagen and other extra-cellular matrixes.

Fibroblasts are the building blocks for connective tissues. Pearl's ability to stimulate the regeneration of fibroblasts makes it not only capable of repairing gum, but also your eye, heart, muscle, nerve, and skin, just to name a few.

Pearl is mainly composed of calcium carbonate, similar to our bone. In addition, pearl contains the whole matrix of nutrients: calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, many trace minerals such as iron, copper, selenium, molybdenum, chromium, and iodine. It also has polysaccharides, proteins, and amino acids. These nutrients are critical for calcium metabolism, cellular regeneration, and immune processes.

The formation of pearl is found to be dependent on a protein process that involves signal proteins. Signal proteins in pearl are a group of proteins that participate in, control and regulate calcium uptake, transportation and secretion in the process of pearl formation.

In a study published in July 2004, Dr. S. Li and his colleagues isolated part of the DNA of pearl that can reproduce a complete full-length signal protein. To their amazement, they found that the pearl signal protein DNA encodes a protein which shares high similarity with our own human calcium-binding proteins.

The research done by Dr. Li and his colleagues, as well as many other scientists, indicates the regulation of calcium uptake, transport, and secretion involved in creating pearl is similar to the regulation of calcium uptake, transport, and absorption in the human body -down to the DNA level. This means that human beings share a deep-rooted kinship, a connection at the DNA level, an evolutionary bond with pearl. Of course, this may also account for why pearl is so compatible and osteogenic for our human bones and at the same time, nutritious and healing for so much of the human body.

The date of commercialized pearl tooth-fillings still remains unknown. Because of the preciousness of pearl and the difficulty to process it, in the past, only wealthy and powerful people had access to pearl powder for better oral health.

Fortunately, we don't have to wait or spend a fortune to benefit from pearl for whiter and stronger teeth and healthier gums like ancient Chinese royalty. Thousands of people have already been enhancing their smiles with pearl powder, thanks to a product called, Pearlcium.

How to Use Pearl Powder for Healthier and More Beautiful Teeth

1. Simply put your toothpaste on your toothbrush like you normally do, then sprinkle pearl powder on top of your toothpaste or dip your toothpaste in the pearl powder.
2. Put pearl powder directly inside your mouth after you brush your teeth before you got to bed and let it stay in your mouth for a while before you swallow it. This will not only help you have whiter and stronger teeth and healthier gum, it will also help you get into sleep faster and obtain more rest from your sleep.
3. Now you can brush your way to a healthier, brighter smile. "Show me your pearly whites" takes on a whole new meaning when you use pearl powder.

To try Pearlcium Pearl Powder for yourself and to discover what it can do for you please visit: http://pharmeast.com

References

1. Atlan G, Delattre O, Berland S, LeFaou A, Nabias G, Cot D, Lopez E. "Interface between bone and pearl implants in sheep." Biomaterials. 1999 Jun; 20(11):1017-22.
2. Camprasse S, Camprasse G, Pouzol M, Lopez E, "Artificial dental root made of natural calcium carbonate (Bioracine)", Clin Mater. 1990;5(2-4):235-50.
3. Lamghari M, Berland S, Laurent A, Huet H, Lopez E. "Bone reactions to pearl injected percutaneously into the vertebrae of sheep." Biomaterials. 2001 Mar;22(6):555-62.
4. Lopez E, Vidal B, Berland S, Camprasse S, Camprasse G, Silve C. "Demonstration of the capacity of pearl to induce bone formation by human osteoblasts maintained in vitro." Tissue Cell. 1992;24(5):667-79.
5. Lamghari M, Almeida MJ, Berland S, Huet H, Laurent A, Milet C, Lopez E. "Stimulation of bone marrow cells and bone formation by pearl: in vivo and in vitro studies." Bone. 1999 Aug;25(2 Suppl):91S-94S
6. Silve C, Lopez E, Vidal B, Smith DC, Camprasse S, Camprasse G, Couly G. "Pearl initiates biomineralization by human osteoblasts maintained in vitro." Calcif Tissue Int. 1992 Nov; 51(5):363-9
7. Shen Y, Zhu J, Zhang H, Zhao F. "In vitro osteogenetic activity of pearl." Biomaterials. 2006 Jan; 27(2):281-7.
8. Duplat D, Gallet M, Berland S, Marie A, Dubost L, Rousseau M, Kamel S, Milet C, Brazier M, Lopez E, Bédouet L. "The effect of molecules in mother-of-pearl on the decrease in bone resorption through the inhibition of osteoclast cathepsin K." Biomaterials. 2007 Nov;28(32):4769-4778. Epub 2007 Aug 7
9. Li X., Yu P, Chen Y., Jiang Z., "Study on Bioavailability of pearl", Journal of Pharmacology and Clinical Study of Chinese Medicine 1998, 14(2): 40-41
10. Cognet JM, Fricain JC, Reau AF, Lavignolle B, Baquey C, Lepeticorps Y. "Pinctada margaritifera pearl (mother-of-pearl): Physico-chemical and biomechanical properties, and in vitro cytocompatibility" Rev Chir Orthop Reparatrice Appar Mot. 2003 Jun; 89(4):346-52.
11. Lopez E, Le Faou A, Borzeix S, Berland S. "Stimulation of rat cutaneous fibroblasts and their synthetic activity by implants of powdered nacre (mother of pearl)." Tissue Cell. 2000 Feb;32(1):95-101.
12. Xinzhong Zhao, Zhemin Zhang, Jiqing Quan, Hongwei Qin: "fifty cases of using pearl calcium to treat wrist cartilage." Hebei Traditional Chinese Medicine Journal 13(5): , 1991
13. Chen D, Wang J, Xue F, "The comparison of the chemical components of Pearl and mother of pearl', Natural Products Research and Development 1990 Sept, 2(3) 13-15
14. Chen D, Wang J, Xue L, "Comparative Studies of Amino Acids and Trace Elements of Pearl and Pearl Shell", Natural Products Research and Development 1990 Sept, 2(3) 10-12
15. Li S, Xie L, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Gu M, Zhang R.: "Cloning and expression of a pivotal calcium metabolism regulator: calmodulin involved in shell formation from pearl oyster (Pinctada fucata)." Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol. 2004 Jul; 138(3):235-43.
16. Duplat D, Puisségur M, Bédouet L, Rousseau M, Boulzaguet H, Milet C, Sellos D, Van Wormhoudt A, Lopez E. "Identification of calconectin, a calcium-binding protein specifically expressed by the mantle of Pinctada margaritifera.", FEBS Lett. 2006 May 1;580(10):2435-41. Epub 2006 Apr 7.
17. Shen X, Belcher AM, Hansma PK, Stucky GD, Morse DE.: "Molecular cloning and characterization of lustrin A, a matrix protein from shell and pearl nacre of Haliotis rufescens." J Biol Chem. 1997 Dec 19;272(51): 32472-81.
18. Tsukamoto D, Sarashina I, Endo K: "Structure and expression of an unusually acidic matrix protein of pearl oyster shells." Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2004 Aug 6;320(4):1175-80.
19. Michenfelder M, Fu G, Lawrence C, Weaver JC, Wustman BA, Taranto L, Evans JS, Morse DE.: "Characterization of two molluscan crystal-modulating biomineralization proteins and identification of putative mineral binding domains." Biopolymers. 2003 Dec; 70(4):522-33.
20. Blank S, Arnoldi M, Khoshnavaz S, Treccani L, Kuntz M, Mann K, Grathwohl G, Fritz M., "The nacre protein perlucin nucleates growth of calcium carbonate crystals." J Microsc. 2003 Dec; 212(Pt 3):280-91
21. Miyamoto H, Miyoshi F, Kohno J.: "The carbonic anhydrase domain protein nacrein is expressed in the epithelial cells of the mantle and acts as a negative regulator in calcification in the mollusc Pinctada fucata." Zoolog Sci. 2005 Mar;22(3):311-5.

The common honeybee is a fascinating little insect that offers us humans some valuable natural foods with health-promoting benefits. These "super foods" include bee pollen, royal jelly and propolis.

Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is the pollen gathered from plants by honeybees, and brought back to their hive. Bee pollen contains all of the eight essential amino acids in amounts that vary between five to seven times the levels found in equal weights of traditional high protein foods. It also contains vitamins A, D, E, K, C and bioflavonoids, as well as the complete B-complex, especially pantothenic acid (B5) and niacin. The high levels of vitamin B5 are particularly beneficial for the adrenal glands, which are adversely effected during stress. Bee pollen has been used traditionally as an anti-aging food, and an energy food. As a matter of fact, it has been used by a number of Olympic athletes to improve their performance.

Antioxidant/anti-aging
The oxidative damage caused by free radicals have been implicated in quite a number of disease processes, and is the primary factor in aging. Antioxidants are capable of providing protection, sometimes significant protection, against this oxidative damage. Interestingly, bee pollen appears to provide significant antioxidant activity, which may explain its traditional use as an anti-aging food. One animal study demonstrated that bee pollen (as well as beta-carotene oil) was able to abolish the effects of harmful ionizing radiation on the brain. This was a function of bee pollen's antioxidant properties.¹ X-rays can activate lipid peroxidation (i.e., free radical activity) in the liver, and adversely affect liver glutathione (i.e., antioxidant) systems. Animal research has shown that bee pollen is able to normalize the activity of important glutathione system enzymes in the liver.² Another study demonstrated that bee pollen was able to markedly decrease lipoperoxide levels in animals fed a limited diet, compared to animals not receiving bee pollen.³

Free radicals can also contribute towards lipofuscin, also known as age pigments and liver spots. These are commonly seen as small brownish spots on the back of hands on elderly people. Liver spots are actually an outward sign of internal toxic accumulation of lipofuscin; including, but not limited to vital nerve centers such as the brain. Such toxic accumulation of lipofuscin can block nutrient absorption in the cells. Animal research has shown that bee pollen markedly reduces lipofuscin in the cardiac muscle (heart), significantly inhibits the increase of lipofuscin in cardiac muscle, liver, brain and adrenal gland cells.⁴

Increase red blood cells & hemoglobin
Traditionally, bee pollen has been used as a food to help increase energy levels. One possible explanation for this use is that bee pollen helps to increase red blood cells, and the hemoglobin component of red blood cells. Since it is the hemoglobin in red blood cells that carry oxygen for energy metabolism, this may explain the relationship between bee pollen and energy. For example, in one animal study, bee pollen resulted in increases in hemoglobin and serum iron.⁵ In a study on humans, bee pollen and several other Chinese herbs were found to increase the number of red blood cells.⁶

Bee Propolis
Propolis is a resinous substance collected from various plants by bees. It is used in the construction of, and to seal the cracks in, the beehive. For this reason, propolis is often referred to as "bee glue." It is a mixture of resin, essential oils and waxes, and also contains amino acids, minerals, ethanol, vitamin A, B complex, E, and flavonoids.⁷ In addition to its construction adhesive application, propolis also has antimicrobial properties, which helps to prevent microorganisms from entering the hive and causing illness.

Antibacterial/antifungal activity
In-vitro (i.e., "test tube") research has demonstrated that propolis has significant antibacterial activity, and also helps to reduce oxidation potential.⁸ Other research has also verified that the growth of bacteria (particularly Gram-positive bacteria) is inhibited by propolis.^9,10,11 In addition to its antibacterial properties, propolis has also been found to have antifungal effects against Candida albicans.¹² Furthermore, research has shown that propolis has specific antibacterial activity against several strains isolated from patients with infections in their upper respiratory tracts.¹³

Dental research
Some interesting dental studies have also been conducted on the value of propolis, including its antibacterial properties. In one study, propolis was found to inhibit certain enzymes and bacteria that are chief culprits in the formation of dental caries (cavities).¹⁴ Other research on propolis has also demonstrated a similar antibacterial effect, including a reduction of bacteria in saliva.¹⁵

Another dental-related value of propolis is its desensitizing properties for teeth. In one study, propolis was administered to 26 women over a period of four weeks. The women were tested for teeth sensitivity by two methods: 1) cold air stimuli, and 2) subjective reporting of pain. Eighty-five percent of the subjects in this study reported that they were highly satisfied; the propolis had significant desensitizing effects on their sensitive teeth.¹⁶

Anti-viral activity
Besides its antibacterial properties, propolis has also demonstrated significant antiviral properties, particularly where cold viruses are concerned. For example, in one study, preschool and school children were treated with propolis during the cold season. Favorable effects of propolis treatment were observed, including a lowering of the number of cases of common cold with acute or chronic symptoms, and decrease and suppression of the viruses and other microbes in the upper airways.¹⁷ Other research demonstrated that propolis was effective in shortening the duration of a cold. Specifically, regression of symptoms occurred in the first day of propolis therapy, and the complete recovery followed in one day in five patients, in two days in16, and in three days in three. The placebo group had full recovery in 4.80 days. In the propolis-treated group the symptoms lasted 2.5 times shorter than in placebo one.¹⁸

Propolis also has promising antiviral properties against herpes viruses.¹⁹ In-vitro research has shown that propolis has activity against herpes simplex virus type 1, reducing viral activity and replication.²⁰ Other in-vitro research has also shown that the flavonoids found in propolis caused a reduction of intracellular replication of herpes virus strains.²¹

Finally, in one in-vitro study propolis was found to suppress the replication of HIV 1 virus, as well as modulate immune responses.²²

Two to four tablets of propolis daily are typically used.

Royal Jelly

Royal jelly is a substance produced by worker honeybees. If fed to an ordinary female bee in the larval stage, royal jelly will transform her into the queen bee. As a queen, she will grow 1½ times normal size, become extremely fertile and lay over a thousand eggs each day. Incredibly, she may live over five years while all the other bees live only a few weeks. The only difference is that she receives royal jelly while the others don't.

The chemistry of royal jelly
Royal jelly is a complex mixture of proteins (12%), sugar (12%), fats (6%) and variable amounts of minerals vitamins and pheromones. About 15 percent of royal jelly is 10-hydroxy-trans-(2)-decanoic acid (HDA), which is probably the substance that causes the queen bee to grow so large. Royal jelly is particularly rich in B vitamins, with pantothenic acid dominating.

Royal jelly folk use
Royal jelly has a history of folk use as a skin tonic and hair growth stimulant. The skin benefits are supposed to include a nourishing process that reduces wrinkles, although there is no actual scientific research that supports these claims (or the hair growth claims). Royal jelly has also been considered to be a general tonic that has a general systemic action rather than any specific biological function, which benefits menopause and sexual performance. Perhaps it's most significant use has been as an aid for increasing energy.

Royal jelly research
Scientific research on royal jelly has revealed that it possesses antitumor activity in experimental mouse leukemia's.²³ Additional research has demonstrated that royal jelly has antibacterial activity against Gram positive bacteria, but not against Gram negative bacteria.²⁴ Furthermore, research with chronically diabetic rats demonstrated that royal jelly possesses an anti-inflammatory action and is able to augment wound healing.²⁵ Royal jelly has also been shown to prevent the cholesterol elevating effect of nicotine²⁶ , and has lowered serum cholesterol in animal studies.²⁷ Some research has also demonstrated that royal jelly can lower cholesterol levels in humans.^28,29 Cholesterol lowering research has shown that the typical dose used for this purpose is 50 100 mg daily.³⁰

References:

1. Anan'eva TV, Dvoretskii AI, Radiatsionnaia biologiia, radioecologiia (1999) 39(2 3):341 4
2. Bevzo VV, Grygor'eva NP, Ukrainskii biokhimicheskii zhurnal (1997) 69(4):115 7.
3. Qian B; Zang X; Liu X, Chung kuo chung yao tsa chih (1990) 15(5):301 3, 319.
4. Liu X, Li L, Chung kuo chung yao tsa chih (1990) 15(9):561 3, 578.
5. Xie Y, Wan B, Li W, Hua hsi i k'o ta hsueh hsueh pao (1994) 25(4):434 7.
6. Iversen T, et al, Journal of ethnopharmacology (1997) 56(2):109 16.
7. Mahmoud AS, Almas K, Dahlan AA, Indian journal of dental research (1999) 10(4):130 7.
8. Drago L, et al, Journal of chemotherapy(2000) 12(5):390 5.
9. Kobayashi N, et al, In vivo (2001) 15(1):17 23.
10. Marcucci MC, et al, Journal of ethnopharmacology (2001) 74(2):105 12.
11. Grange JM, Davey RW, Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine (1990) 83(3):159 60.
12. Koo H, et al, Archives of oral biology (2000) 45(2):141 8.
13. Focht J, et al, Arzneimittel Forschung (1993) 43(8):921 3.
14. Park YK, et al, Current microbiology (1998) 36(1):24 8.
15. Steinberg D, Kaine G, Gedalia I, American journal of dentistry (1996) 9(6):236 9.
16. Mahmoud AS, Almas K, Dahlan AA, Indian journal of dental research (1999) 10(4):130 7.
17. Crisan I, et al, Romanian journal of virology (1995) 46(3 4):115 33.
18. Szmeja Z, et al, The Polish otolaryngology (1989) 43(3):180 4.
19. Esanu V, Virologie (1981) 32(1):57 77.
20. Amoros M, et al, Journal of natural products (1994) 57(5):644 7.
21. Debiaggi M, et al, Microbiologica (1990) 13(3):207 13.
22. Harish Z, et al, Drugs under experimental and clinical research (1997) 23(2):89 96
23. Tamura T, Fujii A, Kuboyama N, Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi (1987) 89(2):73 80.
24. Fujiwara S, et al, J Biol Chem (1990) 265(19):11333 7.
25. Fujii A, et al, Jpn J Pharmacol (1990) 53(3):331 7.
26. Abou Hozaifa BM, Badr El Din NK, Saudi Med J(1995) 16:337-42.
27. Abou Hozaifa BM, Roston AAH, El Nokaly FA, J Biomed Sci Ther (1993) 9:35B44.
28. Cho YT, Am Bee J (1977) 117:36-39.
29. Liusov VA, Zimin IU, Kardiologia (1983) 23:105-9 [in Russian].
30. Vittek J, Experientia (1995) 51:927-35.

Join John in Costa Rica where he investigates Dental Tourism. Many people do not have dental insurance and yet need dental work or surgery they cannot afford. Costa Rica offers cost savings of 60 to 70% and more over costs of dental work in the US. John traveled to Costa Rica earlier this year to interview patients and dentists. On today's show he talks with patients and visits clinics to ensure they can provide the best practices and care for international patients. In this installment he meets Ogg from Brooklyn, gets Ogg's story and visits the clinic that did the work. Ogg saved about $66,000 by having his dental work done in Costa Rica. Top dentists in Costa Rica have the same or better education than many of dentists in the US. Like with everything it seems it is buyer beware. Always do your own homework, seek out qualified referrals, and don't be afraid to ask the tough questions. Keep in mind you do not have the same access to compensation in the event anything goes wrong like you do in the US.

Websites and contacts for today's program:

Dental Clinic:
Dental Cosmetics: http://dentalcosmeticscr.com
US Tel: (305) 428-3820

AIRBNB/Restaurant San Jose:
Cocina Eclectica: https://goo.gl/o5tzUd (Trip Advisor Link)
Owner: Joanna Stein This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CR Tel: 8529-2509

PlanetSafe Lubricants:
http://aimlube.com
http://PlanetSafeLubricants.com

Pregnancy is a time of great joy! There’s a lot to think about and get ready to welcome the new member of your family. Unfortunately, you may be so busy and excited that it’s easy to forget about the health of your mouth. A healthy smile is important, and especially during pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormonal changes affect your mouth. Bleeding gums and tenderness along with gum swelling are not unusual during this time. However, the principles on how to prevent oral disease stay the same, whether you are pregnant or not. Many changes take place during pregnancy, and the health of the mouth is no exception with some adverse affects. There are many myths that exist during pregnancy as far as dental care is concerned. Concerns include taking x-rays, or even what to do with a toothache. This article will help separate fact from myth.

Your Baby’s Health

Studies report poor oral health increases the risk of problem pregnancy including miscarriage. However, since 80 percent of spontaneous miscarriages occur during the first trimester, it is advisable to avoid any non-urgent treatment until the second or third trimester. By the second trimester, the major layers of the internal organs of the baby have developed, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to any harmful or necessary medications.

During the second trimester, it’s also easier for mother to recline in the dental treatment chair for extended periods of time. However, it may be helpful to get short breaks if you do have to be in the dental chair for quite awhile.

X-rays and Pregnancy
With modern digital radiology, exposure to radiation is extremely low. You and your unborn child are generally at a higher risk from gum disease or tooth infection, than you are with radiation exposure. Other ways you are exposed to radiation include the sun, microwaves and your cell phones. If you do need x-rays for needed dental problem, your dentist will protect you by covering your throat and abdomen with a leaded apron. The collar of the apron will protect the thyroid during radiation.

Medications During Pregnancy
Your dentist may need to prescribe medications or over-the-counter drugs during dental treatment. Make sure to inform your dentist of any medications you are taking. Your dentist may consult with your physician to determine the best medication, if any may be needed, such as antibiotics or for pain management.

Gum Disease and Problem Pregnancy
Evidence from recent studies shows a connection between gum disease and low birth weight babies and premature delivery. In order to avoid transmission of oral bacteria from mother to children and to prevent problem pregnancies, it’s important to see a dentist before and during pregnancy.

Often during pregnancy, due to hormonal changes, the gums become easily inflamed and appear to be swollen. This overgrowth of tissue is called “pregnancy tumor.” It usually shows up during the second trimester, if at all. The swelling is nothing to worry about as far as being cancerous. It is usually found between the teeth and caused by poor oral hygiene, which means excess plaque. You’ll notice the swelling bleeds easily and has a red appearance due to inflammation. The cleaner you keep the teeth and gums, the less likely that this condition will occur or get worse. Self-help with daily oral hygiene and three month visits to your dentist can help prevent “pregnancy gingivitis.”

• Practice proper oral hygiene on a daily basis.
• Get a dental check up before you become pregnant, or as soon as you find out.

How to Brush:

1. Use alcohol-free mouthwash and swish it around your mouth before your brush.
2. Floss properly, and if you’re not sure how, check with your dental hygienist.
3. Rinse your toothbrush and dab a small amount of toothpaste on it.
4. Brush every side of every tooth in a circular motion.
5. Brush your gums gently.
6. Rinse.
7. Keep your toothbrush in dry place.
8. Change your toothbrush after a cold, or if it looks worn.

The National Maternal and Child Oral Health Policy Center has a list of tips to follow during pregnancy for healthy nutrition:

• Eat a variety of healthy foods, such as fruits; vegetables; whole-grain products such as cereals, breads or crackers; and dairy products like milk, cheese, cottage cheese or unsweetened yogurt.
• Eat fewer foods high in sugar, including candy, cookies, cake, and dried fruit; and drink fewer beverages high in sugar, including juice, fruit-flavored drinks, or soft drinks.
• For snacks, choose foods low in sugar such as fruits, vegetables, cheese and unsweetened yogurt.
• Read food labels so you can choose foods lower in sugar.
• If you have trouble with nausea, try eating small amounts of healthy foods throughout the day.
• Drink water or milk instead of juice, fruit-flavored drinks or soft drinks.
• Drink water throughout the day, especially between meals and snacks.

• Asparagus, broccoli and leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and spinach
• Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
• Papaya, tomato juice, oranges or orange juice, strawberries, cantaloupe and bananas
• Grain products fortified with folic acid (breads, cereals, cornmeal, flour, pasta, white rice.)

See Your Dentist
If you’re expecting to get pregnant, see your dentist to determine the health of your teeth and gums. Based on your dentist’s recommendation, continue to see your dentist for check ups, cleanings or treatment during your pregnancy. The first trimester is best only for urgent treatment.

This book is much more than the odyssey of a doctor whose dental work became the saboteur to her health – it’s about Health thru Education©

Dental health is something that is often neglected in favor of more pressing health concerns like weight loss and fat loss. Dental health, however, is just as important as overall physical health. Believe it or not, poor dental health has just as much effect on a person as their overall physical health.

Importance of diet in dental health
Diet plays a very important role in dental health. A healthy, balanced diet should contain the essential vitamins and minerals that keep the teeth and gums in optimum condition for a long time.

A diet rich in vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, and lowglycemic carbohydrates (e.g., fibrous vegetables and fruit) and low in simple sugars (e.g., bread, cakes and candies) go a long way in preventing tooth decay.

Link between dental health and disease
Researchers have discovered a correlation between gum (periodontal) disease and cardiovascular disease. While a concrete scientific relationship has yet to be established, the researchers reported two interesting findings.

First, the type of bacteria present in gum disease is also present in the blood vessels undergoing atherosclerosis (the prelude to heart disease). Second, inflammation of the gums increases the levels of a body protein called CRP (C-reactive protein). CRP is also one of the indicators used by doctors to evaluate a person’s risk of having heart disease, and interestingly enough, CRP levels are also higher in those suffering from obesity (another well-known risk factor for heart disease).

Cancer is another health condition that has correlation with oral health. A study by Harvard researchers showed a link between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer. While the study has not yet been verified by laboratory experiments, it is the initial speculation of the researchers that gum inflammation is a significant factor, as it also causes inflammation in other parts of the body.

Nutrients for optimum tooth and gum health

Just like the rest of the body, the gums and the teeth also require specific nutrients to keep them in optimum shape and prevent infection, inflammation, and damage. The following nutrients are essential for dental health:

1. Calcium
Calcium is a trace element that is the main component of the physical structure of teeth and bones. Normal calcium levels help keep the tooth enamel healthy and resistant to erosion caused by bacteria. Calcium deficiency leads to tooth decay brought about by the weakening of tooth enamel.

The US National Institutes of Health recommends the following daily intake for calcium: 1200 milligrams for men and women over the age of seventy, 1000 milligrams for men and women aged nineteen to seventy, 1300 milligrams for children who are between the ages of nine and eighteen, 1000 milligrams for children between four and eight years old, and 700 milligrams for children between one and three years old.

Calcium is readily available in dairy products (e.g., milk and yogurt), turnip and collard greens, and kale. It can also be found in its most bioavailable form within humic acid (i.e. Leaf- Source).

2. Zinc
Zinc is another important trace element that is also involved in many body processes. While not as abundant as calcium, it plays an important role in maintaining dental health by preventing gum infection and plaque build-up. Deficiency in zinc can lead to mouth sores and gingivitis.

Aside from preventing infections, zinc has also been proven to significantly reduce bad breath. Researchers have conducted studies on the effect of zinc-fortified mouthwashes and chewing gum on bad breath. They discovered that the zinc in the oral products reduced the real cause of bad breath—sulphurcontaining compounds.

The recommended daily intake for zinc is eight milligrams for adult females and eleven milligrams for adult males. Zinc can be easily incorporated into one’s diet, as its sources are readily available to everyone. Oysters are said to contain the highest amount of readily available zinc, followed by liver and beef. Other sources include wild rice, cheese, and humic acid (i.e. LeafSource).

3. Iron
This trace mineral functions mainly as a carrier of oxygen throughout the body via the bloodstream. Lack of iron in the diet causes anemia, which in turn reduces oxygen flow in the various body cells and tissues. Lack of oxygen flow has been linked to infections and sores. In the mouth, this is manifested by bleeding gums and painful canker sores that often take a long time to heal.

Just like zinc, dietary sources of iron are plentiful and inexpensive. Good sources are liver and other meat products. Iron-fortified foods like breakfast cereals can also help a person meet the recommended daily iron intake of eight milligrams (for adult males) and 18 milligrams (for adult females), however in my opinion, most are way too high in sugar, which negates any of their fortification.

4. Magnesium
Together with calcium, magnesium helps strengthen the tooth enamel and prevents the formation of cavities and the onset of tooth decay. The recommended daily requirement for magnesium is 400 milligrams.

One of the best supplemental sources of magnesium is magnesium bisglycinate (magnesium bound to the amino acid glycine). The bisglycinate form is believed to be many times more absorbable than the citrate form. Dietary magnesium can be found in a wide variety of sources—fish, dark green leafy vegetables, dark chocolate, and bananas.

Visit: www.AbundantHealthSystems.com

References:

1. Slade GD, et al. Relationship between periodontal disease and Creactive protein among adults in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study. Arch Intern Med. 2003 May 26;163(10):1172–9.
2. Michaud DS, et al. A prospective study of periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer in US male health professionals. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2007 Jan 17;99(2):171–5.
3. Periodontal Disease and Systemic Health. American Academy of Periodontology. (Accessed May 21, 2015).
4. NIH Medline Plus. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/magazine/issues/winter11/articles/winter11pg12.html.
5. Fedorowicz Z, et al. “Mouthrinses for the treatment of halitosis.” Cochrane database of systematic reviews (Online) (4): CD006701. Oct 8, 2008.
6. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/.

Brad King, MS, MFS is a highly sought after authority on nutrition, obesity, longevity and one’s health and he has been touted as one of the most influential health mentors of our time. Brad can be heard live every week on Wednesday at noon Pacific/3 P.M. Eastern as he hosts the talk radio program “Transforming Health with Brad King” on Blog Talk Radio. https://www.facebook.com/TransformingHealth and www.Twitter.com/HealthyKingBrad.

Nothing defines a smile as the color of your teeth. If you have yellow teeth with tooth decay or old worn out fillings, you will not dazzle anyone. But a bright, beautiful healthy smile with clean white teeth, says a lot about you. To show off those beautiful white teeth, many opt for teeth whitening or bleaching, which is the easiest way for a brighter smile.

Besides what your dentist offers, over-the-counter teeth whitening types include gels, rinses, strips, trays and whitening toothpaste products. If your teeth aren’t sensitive, you don’t have any teeth that need to be restored and you have healthy gums, then you are the ideal candidate for teeth whitening.

If I had a dollar for every not-so-pleasant discussion I’ve had over fluoride with various dentists over the years, well I’d be a lot better off than I am now. It’s not that I find talking about fluoride unpleasant, despite the fact that there isn’t much good I can say about the stuff, it’s more about the “Oh great another health nut” expression on the dentist’s face every time I refuse to have it anywhere near my mouth. We are led to believe fluoride is healthy for us, so much so that the very establishments that were put in place to protect us, introduce the stuff into the public water system in order to prevent dental decay. How noble of them if it were actually true.

Dr. Weston Price practiced dentistry over seventy years ago in Cleveland, Ohio. His techniques and knowledge of a whole approach to health were years ahead of his time not only as far as dentistry, but regarding medicine in general. Consequently, he became a popular and influential dentist as well as Chairman of the American Dental Association's Research Department. He is also known as the father of nutrition.

Curious as to the exact cause of cavities and malformed dental arches that resulted in crooked, overcrowded teeth, Dr. Price began investigating a potential connection to diet and nutrition. Microscopes and laboratories were devoid of the answers he searched for. Dr Price felt that the most logical way to research was to observe different cultures. It was necessary to compare those societies that ate modern diets consisting mostly of processed and refined foods such as white flour products, sugar, white rice, canned foods, and fats with those that regularly consumed a more nutritious diet, and where most of the food was grown locally.