Dental Myths Debunked: The Real Story Behind Oral Health

Speakers: Dr. Kat Lindley, Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

“Teeth don’t lie. Your lifestyle, the food you’re ingesting, your nutrition, and all of your oral habits, they all show in your teeth.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

For many, dental health feels like a surface-level concern—a matter of cleanings, cavities, and the occasional whitening treatment. But the reality is far deeper: your teeth and gums are windows into your overall health, offering early warning signs of everything from heart disease to chronic inflammation. Despite this, dentistry is often treated as separate from medicine, with dental insurance standing apart from traditional healthcare—a curious divide that obscures just how vital oral health is to overall well-being.

We’ve also been conditioned to trust practices like fluoridation without question, believing it to be a harmless safeguard for our teeth. Yet, its history reveals unanswered questions about its long-term safety and effectiveness. Early observations in Colorado Springs, where fluoride was first linked to severe staining and fluorosis, remind us that not everything presented as a “gold standard” is risk-free.

It’s time to bridge this gap in understanding. FLCCC Senior Fellow Dr. Jennifer Hibberd is here to cut through the myths, offering a straightforward look at how dental health impacts your entire body. From debunking misconceptions about fluoride and amalgams to sharing practical tips for maintaining optimal oral health, Dr. Hibberd provides the clarity and solutions we need to take charge of our well-being.

Meet Dr. Jennifer Hibberd, Pioneer in Dentistry and Healthcare

Dr. Jennifer Hibberd, BSc, DDS, DPD, MRCDC, ROHP(t), is a leading voice in the intersection of dentistry, nutrition, and systemic health. A Senior Fellow specializing in Pediatric Dental Surgery, she holds degrees from the University of Toronto and completed her post-graduate training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She has led private and hospital-based practices, educating future professionals and contributing as a scientific editor.

Her commitment extends beyond dentistry. Dr. Hibberd is a founder of the Canadian COVID Care Alliance, vice president of the Canada Health Alliance, and co-founder of the World Council of Health. She has made significant contributions to research on Ivermectin and vaccine safety, publishing groundbreaking studies that reflect her dedication to evidence-based healthcare.

Dentistry: A Specialty of Medicine?

“The oral cavity is the entrance to the temple of the body. It gives direct access to the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological systems.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

Perhaps the biggest misconception is that oral health is disconnected from overall well-being. For teeth, you see a dentist. For everything else, you see a medical doctor.

This artificial divide fails to recognize how oral health mirrors and impacts systemic health. Dr. Hibberd emphasizes that the oral cavity serves as a gateway to critical organ systems, with telltale signs of disease often appearing first in the mouth.

For example, issues such as gum disease or bleeding gums can indicate underlying conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. These connections make it clear that dentistry should be considered a vital specialty within medicine.

Understanding the Oral Microbiome

“Your oral microbiome is composed of hundreds of bacterial species, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. When your diet or lifestyle is off, you’re going to get an overgrowth in one form or another.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

Do we want to kill every living thing inside our mouths? Or is that another misconception?

The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem that plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health. A poor diet, high sugar intake, and inadequate oral hygiene can disrupt this balance, leading to conditions like plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Dr. Hibberd emphasizes the importance of supporting the microbiome through proper nutrition and consistent oral care. By prioritizing good oral hygiene and dietary habits, you can maintain a healthier balance and reduce the risk of oral health problems.

How Poor Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

It’s curious that people take pride in broadcasting their health with a bright, white smile, yet often fail to recognize the profound connection between healthy teeth and a healthy body.

The truth is that oral health problems extend beyond the mouth. Conditions like gingivitis and bleeding gums can lead to systemic inflammation, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Regular dental visits and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential steps to protecting both your teeth and your overall health.

“Flossing is important. You may feel you’re doing a really good brushing job, but try flossing after you brush your teeth—it’ll blow you away.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

To maintain optimal oral health, Dr. Hibberd recommends brushing your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush (to prevent enamel decay) and flossing regularly. Parents should pay close attention to baby teeth, as they guide the growth of permanent teeth and prevent early dental problems. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also vital for catching and addressing issues early.

The Truth About Fluoride: Risk-Free or Risky?

“Fluoride ingestion in children has been associated with reduced IQ and other developmental concerns. Why are we still promoting it as a gold standard?” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

For decades, fluoride has been promoted as essential for preventing tooth decay, but its safety has always been a subject of concern. Historical observations, such as those in Colorado Springs in the early 1900s, revealed severe dental fluorosis—disfiguring brown and black stains—caused by high fluoride levels in local water. By the late 1930s, fluoride was being added to drinking water supplies across the U.S. and globally, based on the belief that levels up to 1.0 ppm wouldn’t harm most people.

Today, more than 200 million Americans drink fluoridated water, and 13 million children participate in school-based fluoride mouth rinse programs. Most toothpastes and even certain coatings like Silver Diamide Fluoride (SDF) contain fluoride as an active ingredient, aimed at strengthening teeth and preventing decay. Fluoride initiatives disproportionately target children—a population particularly vulnerable to its risks.

Studies show that ingesting even small amounts of fluoride toothpaste (as little as a pea-sized amount) can cause mild fluorosis in children under six. In 2024, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) summarized decades of research across countries including Canada, China, and India, finding that fluoride levels as low as 1.5 mg/L in drinking water posed neurodevelopmental risks, particularly in boys.

A U.S. District Judge further emphasized these concerns, ordering the EPA to strengthen its fluoride regulations. The current “optimal” level of 0.7 mg/L, he ruled, poses an unreasonable risk of reduced IQ in children. Recommendations now include lowering fluoride intake for pregnant women—not only from water but also from certain teas.

The Mercury Problem: What You Need to Know About Amalgam

“Amalgam is made up of 50% elemental liquid mercury—a neurotoxin—and yet it’s still widely used.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

The truth is in the name: “amalgam” literally refers to a mixture or amalgamation of different elements. In this case, it’s a blend of metals, with mercury comprising about half of the material. While it’s been used in dentistry for centuries due to its durability, the safety of mercury in amalgam fillings has long been a subject of debate.

Mercury vapor released from these fillings poses risks, particularly for pregnant women, children, and individuals with preexisting neurological or kidney conditions. Despite these concerns, amalgam remains a common material in dental procedures worldwide.

Several countries, including Norway and Sweden, have banned amalgam due to its environmental and health risks. Dr. Hibberd stresses the importance of exploring safer alternatives, such as composite resins, while balancing the risks and benefits of any dental material.

Rethinking Traditional Dental Practices

“You could consider putting sealants over amalgams to prevent mercury release or switch to composite resin, but remember, every material challenges your immune system.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

Modern dentistry offers safer alternatives to traditional materials. Sealants, composite resins, and ceramics provide effective solutions for treating cavities while minimizing risks. Dr. Hibberd encourages consulting with your dentist to explore options that align with your health needs and personal values.

“Everything you put into your mouth affects your body, and it comes back to affect your teeth. Nutrition is such a big part of this.” – Dr. Jennifer Hibberd

Oral health isn’t just about a bright smile—it’s a cornerstone of overall health. By dispelling dental myths, embracing facts, and making informed choices, you can take control of your well-being. From routine dental check-ups to practicing good oral hygiene, every small step makes a big difference.