In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Staci Whitman, a board-certified pediatric, integrative, and naturopathic dentist.  Dr. Staci is one of the few dentists certified by the Institute of Functional Medicine, is the founder of a leading functional pediatric dental practice, co-founder of the Institute for Functional Dentistry, and a passionate educator on the oral-systemic connection.  She recently appeared on the Huberman Lab Podcast and did an outstanding job representing the dental profession!

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Dr. Staci’s personal journey from traditional dental training to pioneering a holistic, root-cause approach to pediatric dentistry.
• The challenges and limitations of current dental education and practice models.
• How burnout affects dental professionals—and how a functional approach can restore purpose and satisfaction.
• The truth about fluoride, the latest research, and why open-minded discussion is critical.
• The oral and gut microbiome: what it means for your health, how it connects to systemic wellness, and why it’s the next frontier in dentistry.
• Actionable steps for parents, patients, and providers to improve oral health, including nutrition, hydration, airway health, stress management, and hygiene.
• The importance of individualized care, patient education, and shifting away from a “one-size-fits-all” model.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Listeners of The DOC Podcast can receive a $500 discount on registration for Airway Palooza 2025 in Fort Lauderdale by using code DOCPALOOZA at checkout. https://airwayhealthsolutions.com/palooza
• Oral microbiome testing resources: https://www.viome.com/products/oral-health-intelligence; https://www.bristlehealth.com/
• Cochrane Review on Fluoride (2024): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39362658/
• The Institute for Functional Dentistry: https://functionaldentistry.com/
• Episode with Beth Lambert: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-causing-the-chronic-disease-epidemic-in-our/id1689703392?i=1000716655495

Connect with Dr. Staci:

• https://doctorstaci.com/
• Dr. Staci on Instagram: @doctor_staci

Connect with Dr. Mike:

• theorthocoach.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Join the DOC Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/