Unlocking the Oral-Systemic Connection with Dr. Mark Burhenne

Did you know your mouth may be the first place chronic disease, hormone imbalances, poor sleep, and even accelerated aging show up? In this powerful episode of Asking for a Friend, functional dentist and bestselling author Dr. Mark Burhenne explains why oral health is the true gateway to whole-body wellness—and why traditional dentistry often overlooks these critical connections.

From the surprising impact of dry mouth and receding gums during menopause, to how airway health affects sleep, brain function, and longevity, Dr. Burhenne breaks down what midlife women need to know. You’ll learn:

• Why 90% of sleep apnea remains undiagnosed—and why slim, active women are at risk
• The hidden dangers of mouthwash, root canals, and cavitations
• How oral bacteria influence heart health and nitric oxide production
• Simple daily practices like mouth taping and oil pulling that can transform health
• The link between oral health, Alzheimer’s disease, and hormone shifts in midlife

Dr. Burhenne also shares his personal journey with sleep apnea, insights from his book The Eight-Hour Sleep Paradox, and his mission to revolutionize oral care through his “For Your Good Guys” hydroxyapatite product line.

If you care about your smile, your sleep, and your longevity, this conversation will change the way you look in the mirror each morning. Your mouth is talking—are you listening?

https://www.instagram.com/askthedentist/

https://askthedentist.com/

Dr. Mark Burhenne's book, The 8 Hour Sleep Paradox, is available on Amazon and other booksellers.

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If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, it may be time to look deeper. I’ve partnered with EllieMD, a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 peptide therapy—to support metabolic health and longevity.

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🎤 In addition to coaching, I speak to women’s groups, moderate health panel discussions, and bring experts together for real, evidence-based conversations about midlife health.

Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.