This Type of Oral Bacteria Increases Cancer Risk

What if your bleeding gums could be the reason you can’t get pregnant—or why your brain is at risk of Alzheimer’s? In this groundbreaking conversation with functional dentist Dr. Staci Whitman, we uncover how your oral microbiome impacts far more than just your smile. From fertility struggles and pregnancy loss to Alzheimer’s, cancer, and even depression, the bacteria in your mouth may be silently shaping your entire health span. Dr. Whitman breaks down the science of “leaky gums,” reveals why saliva is the body’s golden elixir, and explains how simple shifts in diet, hygiene, and oral microbiome testing could change the future of medicine. This is not just about teeth—it’s about your brain, hormones, longevity, and life itself.About Dr. Staci Whitman: Dr. Staci Whitman is a board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of NoPo Kids Dentistry in Portland, Oregon, where she practices a whole-body, functional approach to children’s oral health. A graduate of Tufts University and OHSU, she has specialized expertise in sleep, airway health, and myofunctional therapy. Dr. Staci is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a Breathe Institute Ambassador, and an active member of several holistic and biological dentistry organizations. Her mission is simple yet powerful: to create a world without cavities and to empower families with practical, science-backed tools for lifelong health. *** Subscribe to The Neuro Experience for more conversations at the intersection of brain science and performance. I'm committed to bringing you evidence-based insights that you can apply to your own health journey. *** A huge thank you to my sponsors for supporting this episode. Check them out and enjoy exclusive discounts: Function Health: The first 1000 get a $100 credit toward their membership. Visit www.functionhealth.com/louisanicola and use code NEURO100 or use gift code NEURO100 at sign-up to own your health. Boncharge: Go to www.boncharge.com | Code: NEURO15 for 15% off FIGS: You can get 15% off your first order at https://wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX.  Manukora: Head to www.manukora.com/neuro to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit. Cozy Earth Head to cozyearth.com and use my code NEURO for 40% off!  Rula Go to Rula.com/NEURO to get started today. For convenient therapy that’s covered by insurance.  *** I’m Louisa Nicola — clinical neuroscientist — Alzheimer’s prevention specialist — founder of Neuro Athletics. My mission is to translate cutting-edge neuroscience into actionable strategies for cognitive longevity, peak performance, and brain disease prevention. If you're committed to optimizing your brain — reducing Alzheimer’s risk — and staying mentally sharp for life, you’re in the right place. Stay sharp. Stay informed. Join thousands who subscribe to the Neuro Athletics Newsletter → https://bit.ly/3ewI5P0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louisanicola_/ Twitter : https://twitter.com/louisanicola_ Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Oral health, gum disease & fertility connection 00:02:46 Inflammation & systemic effects 00:06:00 Defining true oral health (nutrition, saliva, airway) 00:08:25 Diet, processed foods & cavities 00:15:00 Saliva, dry mouth & gut health 00:19:49 Oral microbiome testing & treatments 00:24:17 Treatment plan, family transmission & genetics 00:26:30 Alzheimer’s, brain health & strokes 00:33:07 Oral health & cancer links 00:41:50 Inflammation causing pancreatic cancer 00:42:27 Failing dental work and cancer 00:43:37 Fertility & Menopause 00:46:31 Spit test & depression/mood disorders 00:48:39 Oral health toolkit & practical hygiene tips Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices