There is a rising body of knowledge about the importance of the oral microbiome for the maintenance of oral health, but we are still a long way off from understanding things in their entirety. Today on the show, we answer a listener question about how to maintain an optimal state in the oral microbiome! Dr. B gets into some habits revolving around diet, brushing, flossing, and even taping the mouth shut while we sleep. In his explanations, he elaborates on the role that plaque plays in keeping the oral microbiome healthy, the harmful effects of modern toothpaste, and the connection between the microbiome's health and overall wellbeing. He also talks about which kinds of dentists to see if you would like to get reliable information about the oral microbiome because not all dentists are trained or even aware of this topic that is so central to their craft! Tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Growing recognition about the importance of the oral microbiome.A listener question about how to keep the oral microbiome in an optimum state.The link between the oral and gut microbiome and what foods to avoid eating.Different colonies of biomes that exist in different areas of the mouth.The importance of the biofilm or plaque for protecting the teeth.Taping the mouth when sleeping because of how much an open mouth can affect the biome.Why the paleo diet is so helpful for keeping the oral microbiome balanced.The role genetics can play in people having different experiences with their microbiome.All the threatening chemicals that are in fluoridated toothpaste like emulsifiers and surfactants.Which types of dentists to see who will be qualified to advise about the oral microbiome.Where we are in our efforts to measure the health of microbiomes.Everybody has a unique microbiome, making testing and diagnosis difficult.How to still get hydroxyapatite if you stop using toothpaste.How to Submit Your Question:Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentistTweetables:“These orifices that aren’t closed most of the time, or sealed up, like the nose and the mouth, they need protection. They need a very active biome and immune function.” — @askthedentist [0:05:52]“Everyone is unique when it comes to their biome.” — @askthedentist [0:11:25]Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Ask the Dentist WebsiteAbout Dr. Mark BurhenneFollow Dr. B on Instagram @askthedentistFollow Dr. B on Twitter @askthedentistAsk Dr. B a QuestionFunctional Dentist DirectoryThe Dental DietThe Dental Diet affiliate link: https://amzn.toCheck Out My NEW Line of Toothpaste and Professional Dental Varnish!! Check out Dr. B's website for more information: https://askthedentist.com Subscribe to Dr. B's newsletter Mondays with Mark: https://askthedentist.com/newsletter