Mouth Health Natters

Dr David Cowhig
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Health & Fitness

Join the Mouth Health Natters podcast, on its quest for whole-body health and wellness! Grab a cup of tea, relax and learn with Dr David how oral health impacts your immune system, sleep, energy, inflammation & much more (& what you can do about it with holistic approaches). Dr David also interviews health experts about their expertise in prevention and management of chronic health conditions.

  1. 5d ago

    The Mineral That Targets the Bad Bugs

    Patients turn to colloidal silver more often than you might expect—for blocked sinuses, congestion, or a cold coming on. It's been a trusted natural remedy for a long time. So Dr David Cowhig was excited to talk with Keith Moeller about the newer nano silver and what it can do for the mouth. Keith is CEO of SilverCeuticals and author of Silver: Nature's Natural Healer. He has a doctorate in naturopathy, works with hundreds of dentists, and has run clinical trials in the dental industry for about seventeen years. One electron, one way of working Classical colloidal and ionic silver is missing an electron and wants it back. That gives it a single way of working — by Keith's account, useful against bacteria, much less so against yeasts, fungi and viruses. Nano silver works by a different mechanism altogether, across a broader range of microbes. The word "nano" worries some people — David hears it from his own patients — much like the recent unease around nano-hydroxyapatite in toothpaste. Keith's answer runs the other way: a nano silver particle is actually larger than an ionic one, and that's why the two behave so differently. Ionic silver is metabolised and can take weeks to clear. Nano silver isn't metabolised at all — in the human ingestion study he cites, it's gone within twenty-four hours. Why it matters in the mouth The mouth, as Keith put it, is the entrance to the whole body. But killing everything isn't the win it sounds like. The helpful organisms in your mouth support digestion and immune function, and you want them still standing when the pathogens are gone. On Keith's figures, classical colloids start harming probiotic bacteria at around 2.5 parts per million, while nano silver leaves them alone until well above 40. His products sit under 32. A garden rather than a spray job: clear the weeds, leave the plants. What happens overnight The eight hours you sleep are when oral bacteria have the run of the place — less saliva, no eating, nothing disturbing them. That's why morning breath exists. It's also why rinsing straight after brushing works against you: you wash away what you just applied, right before the longest undisturbed stretch of the day. Spit, don't rinse. Keith's toothpaste is built around that window. It combines xylitol and coral calcium with nano silver, and his suggestion is to brush as usual, spit, and leave the residue in place overnight — eight hours on the biofilm instead of eight seconds. What you'd notice, he says, is the next morning: no film on the teeth and no morning breath. He told of a radio host who complained she kept forgetting to brush in the morning, because there was nothing on her teeth to brush off. Where this goes next Much of the conversation covers the clinical side — extraction sites, bone grafts, implants, periodontal pockets, and the experience of more than 55 000 dental patients across the US and Canada. For David, who places ceramic implants and packs the socket with the patient's own platelet-rich fibrin, the overlap was immediate. That clinical work is further along in North America, and Keith hasn't pursued Australian registration for his clinical products. The toothpaste and everyday products are available online. Visit silverceuticals.com — Dental Wellness listeners get 25% off with the code DAVIDCOWHIG.

  2. Sep 6

    Why the Body Matters as Much as the Implant

    Do you know what decides whether a dental implant succeeds? Here's a hint: it isn't the implant. Two patients can receive exactly the same one and heal completely differently. The reason sits somewhere else entirely — and it's usually in place long before anyone picks up an instrument. In this episode of Mouth Health Natters, Dr David Cowhig speaks with Dr Karl Ulrich Volz, often referred to as 'The Godfather of ceramic dental implants'. Dr Volz has been working metal-free for around thirty-five years and has placed more than 30,000 ceramic implants since 2001. His view is that the implant is only the last step in a biological chain. What matters more is the state the patient is in before surgery — and he starts preparing that about six weeks out. In this conversation: Why an infected tooth is a systemic problem, not a local one What "silent inflammation" is, and why patients don't feel it The five nutrients Dr Volz uses to prepare patients before surgery, and what each one does Why the preparation continues after the implant is placed The one question he says every patient should ask their dentist before agreeing to anything Read the written version: https://dentalwellness.com.au/why-the-body-matters-as-much-as-the-implant/ Dental Wellness, Brisbane — biological and ceramic implant dentistry.

  3. May 20

    Why the Way You Breathe Is Quietly Shaping Your Teeth

    “Do you breathe through your mouth at night?” It is not the question most patients expect from their dentist. But for Dr David Cowhig, it is often the most revealing one, particularly when worn front teeth, gum disease, or unexplained decay are sitting in the chair in front of him. In a recent Mouth Health Natters conversation with Alana Inwood, certified Buteyko practitioner and founder of Breathscape, the discussion kept returning to one idea that rarely gets enough attention: the airway is where dental health and whole-body health meet. The Mouth Was Never Designed for Breathing When air enters through the mouth rather than the nose, the mouth dries out. Saliva depends on moisture to do its job — maintaining a stable pH and protecting against harmful bacteria. Without it, that balance shifts. As the oral environment becomes more acidic, the bacterial strains associated with gum disease and tooth decay find more favourable conditions to thrive. There is also a structural dimension that is easy to overlook. As Alana Inwood explains, one of the tongue’s jobs is to press up against the palate — and it is that repeated pressure during development that encourages the upper arch to grow broadly. When breathing shifts to the mouth, the tongue drops and sits against the lower teeth instead. The upper arch narrows, the lower jaw adapts to fit, and crowding follows. What Happens When the Jaw Compensates The consequences do not stop at the gums. Patients who struggle to breathe through the nose during sleep often present with flattened or chipped front teeth, a forward head tilt, and visible neck and shoulder muscle tension. The body, in its effort to open the airway during sleep, pushes the jaw forward, and the front teeth wear flat and begin to chip. This is also why nasal breathing matters directly to implant patients. Mouth breathing increases the likelihood of nocturnal clenching, which elevates the risk of implant failure. For Dr Cowhig, establishing adequate nasal airflow before any significant dental procedure is not an optional extra — it is part of the foundation. Nasal breathing also produces nitric oxide, a gas that triggers vasodilation (relaxing and widening blood vessels) and supports the body's natural regulation of inflammation. Bypassing the nose means bypassing this mechanism entirely. Where to Begin — and What to Expect Alana Inwood uses a baseline assessment called the Control Pause to establish where a patient’s breathing currently sits. The method is straightforward: after a relaxed exhale, the breath is held until the first definite urge to breathe. The result, measured in seconds, offers a useful indicator of carbon dioxide tolerance — a factor that underlies how efficiently oxygen is delivered to tissues. Under 20 seconds suggests meaningful room for improvement; under 10 is not uncommon in people with anxiety, chronic fatigue, or disrupted sleep. For those wanting to begin without clinical supervision, the most practical entry point is simply noticing. Lips sealed during a walk. Nose breathing is maintained during gentle movement. The first few days often feel effortful — slightly restricted, a little uncomfortable. That sensation is normal, and it tends to ease within a week as the body adapts. Building the Habit Breathing patterns do not live only in exercise. Alana assesses breathing across the full 24-hour cycle — the commute, desk hours, wind-down, and sleep. A useful anchor is any activity that is already habitual: a lunch break walk, the first few minutes at a desk in the morning. Lips closed, exhalation slightly longer than the inhalation. Done consistently, the pattern begins to feel less like a technique and more like a default. For anxious breathers, Alana Inwood recommends humming as a gentler entry point. The vibration stimulates the vagus nerve, and she notes it increases nasal nitric oxide production by around 70%.

  4. 09/22/2025

    Ozonated Glycerin: Gentle, Effective Dental Healing

    Think oxygen, but smarter: ozonated glycerin transforms ozone’s fleeting nature into a pleasant, shelf-stable, blendable medium that controls harmful microbes while gently cueing tissues to heal—a hormetic nudge—without chlorhexidine’s staining downside. It’s oxygen intelligence in a jar—dependable for the practice, kind for everyday care. Whilst many practices still rely on conventional antiseptics, clinics at the forefront of holistic care are adopting gentler, microbiome-aware solutions. On Mouth Health Natters, Dr David Cowhig and Simply O3’s Micah Lowe map out the science, safety, and real-world applications in biological dentistry. The science of ozonated glycerin’s stability and healing Ozone is powerful but fleeting—as a gas, it loses its strength quickly, which limits its effectiveness in the mouth. Ozonated glycerin “holds” ozone’s benefits by forming stable peroxides and related compounds that persist far longer than gas and release single oxygen atoms over time—creating a gentle hormetic cue in tissues. Think of it as a slow-release form of oxygen care. In practice, most clinicians use a conservative 90-day potency window for ozonated glycerin, while a Japanese organisation reports multi-year stability using advanced testing—promising, but not yet widely published. This steady delivery creates a mild, short-lived oxidative nudge—much like the healthy stress of exercise. The result is twofold: fewer troublesome microbes and a prompt for the body’s own repair pathways, including growth factors and balanced immune signalling. Revolutionising Treatment Approaches In progressive dental practices, ozonated glycerin is opening practical options across care pathways. After a tooth is removed, dentists who already use ozone—such as ozonated water or saline irrigation—together with platelet-rich fibrin, can add a thin layer of ozonated glycerin to continue oxygen support and help keep the area clean as it heals. At Dental Wellness, the hygiene department’s biofilm therapy (for example, warm water, air, and erythritol via AirFlow) can be complemented by targeted use of ozonated glycerin in deeper niches and around implants—especially near the neck (the region at the gumline where the implant/abutment emerges), where tissues can be more reactive. For home care, patients commonly use ozonated water with a water flosser, as a mouthwash, or as a spray for appliances. Ozone’s broad antimicrobial profile (antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic) helps keep devices fresh between visits. Within the practice, ozonated glycerin is applied selectively to support these goals. Envisioning Tomorrow’s Dental Care The practical implications are likely to extend beyond individual procedures. As evidence accumulates, ozonated glycerin could become a standard, microbiome-aware alternative to conventional antiseptics in biological dental practices—especially when dentists seek antimicrobial assistance that also supports local healing responses. Future-minded workflows may include in-practice production or local fresh-batching to ensure potency, rather than relying on products that may weaken with long shipping and storage. We’re already seeing different strengths for different roles (gentler for daily care, stronger for targeted use); over time, concentrations and delivery could be refined further to match clinical aims more precisely. Combined with better stability testing and sensible delivery formats, more patient-friendly products are plausible. Importantly, controlled data—from wound-care trials to dental studies—helps move adoption forward based on evidence and results, rather than merely on a treatment philosophy. Closing note and reader offer Contact the Dental Wellness team to learn more about how ozonated glycerin can support your care. If you’re exploring products, use code davidc10 at simplyo3.com for 10% off. Disclosure: davidc10 is an affiliate code that may support our educational work at no extra cost to you.

  5. 07/24/2025

    When Chronic Dental Issues Persist Despite Antibiotics

    When patients walk into Dr David Cowhig's practice after multiple antibiotic courses for persistent gum disease or root canal infections, they're often frustrated and seeking answers. Having recommended black seed oil to his patients for several years with remarkable results, Dr Cowhig explored this further with Shakira Salahuddin, Business Development Manager of Hab Shifa Australia, in the latest Mouth Health Natters episode. This conversation revealed how an ancient remedy, documented over 3,000 years ago, addresses today's health concerns. Beyond the Antibiotic Cycle Many patients find themselves caught in cycles of antibiotic treatment for persistent dental issues. Those with autoimmune conditions find repeated antibiotic use problematic, while others seek to support their body's natural healing processes alongside conventional care. Dr Cowhig noted patients often have root canal infections troubling them for extended periods or gum problems that improve temporarily but keep returning. Black seed oil offers hope for patients seeking to boost immune systems and address underlying inflammation, aligning with Dr Cowhig's biological dentistry philosophy that supports the body's inherent wisdom. Nature's Unique Healing Compound Black seed oil contains over 100 naturally occurring constituents, but its primary active component is thymoquinone (TQ)—a unique compound found nowhere else in nature. This molecule delivers powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. Black seed oil can reduce lipopolysaccharides, toxic byproducts from harmful bacteria that contribute to oral and systemic inflammation. Hab Shifa's TGA-listed products offer options from standard strength to 5% concentration for intensive support. This ancient remedy works on multiple levels—supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep quality through antihistamine properties. Practical Applications Dr Cowhig recommends 5% strength capsules for patients with chronic issues needing to optimise their immune systems before treatment. He also suggests oil pulling with black seed oil, typically mixed with coconut oil for better taste. Daily use is safe and beneficial, with customers reporting improvements in sleep, skin health, and overall vitality. One compelling case involved a patient with persistent root canal pain experiencing significant improvement after three months of supplementation. Transforming Dental Care The discussion highlighted possibilities for integrating traditional remedies with modern dental techniques. Black seed oil fits perfectly with Dr Cowhig's ceramic implant procedures—both representing non-toxic, biocompatible approaches that support the body's systems rather than burden them. This podcast illustrates the importance of examining traditional remedies through a modern scientific lens, serving as a bridge between ancient healing wisdom and contemporary dental wellness.

  6. 11/22/2024

    Beyond Root Canals and Fillings - A New Era in Dental Health Emerges

    In the latest episode of Mouth Health Natters, Dr. David Cowhig had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Kelly Blodgett, a distinguished biological dentist from Portland, USA. Dr. Blodgett, board-certified in naturopathic medical dentistry and integrated biological dental medicine, brings a unique perspective to dental care by combining advanced technology with individualised biological approaches.Dr Blodgett shared his fascinating journey into dentistry, which began with a surprising spiritual calling to transform the negative stereotypes associated with dental care. For his first 15 years of practice, he focused on implementing cutting-edge technology to make dental procedures more comfortable and less invasive. About a decade ago, responding to patient demands, he began incorporating biological approaches into his practice, revolutionising his approach to dental health.The conversation delved into Dr. Blodgett's impressive social media presence, particularly his "Toxic Tuesday" and "Wellness Wednesday" series on Instagram, which has been running for six years. These posts have created a platform for sharing patient success stories and raising awareness about traditional dental approaches that may need reconsideration.Much of the discussion centred on advanced diagnostic tools, including 3D cone beam CT scanning and DNA-PCR testing for root canal extractions. Dr. Blodgett emphasised how these technologies have transformed their ability to identify hidden infections and provide comprehensive care. The immediate health improvements many patients experience after removing infected or dead teeth were highlighted, demonstrating the profound connection between oral and overall health.The interview also covered the exciting developments in ceramic implants, particularly the SDS (Swiss Dental Solutions) system, which both doctors agreed represents the current gold standard in biological implant dentistry. Dr. Blodgett, as one of only ten SDS ambassadors in the United States, shared his experience with various implant systems and the superior predictability of the SDS system.Dr Blodgett also discussed his new venture, the Whole Health podcast, which he co-hosts with functional nutritionist Megan. The podcast explores various aspects of integrated health and features diverse health practitioners, furthering understanding of the crucial connection between oral and systemic health.This engaging conversation represents what Mouth Health Natters aims to achieve - bridging the gap between traditional dentistry and integrated health approaches while educating listeners about the crucial role of oral health in overall wellbeing.For those interested in learning more about biological dentistry and its transformative potential, the interview provides invaluable insights from two pioneers in the field. Dr. Blodgett can be followed on Instagram @BlodgettDentalCare, where he continues to share his knowledge and patient success stories.The complete episode offers more profound insights into the following:- Advanced diagnostic technologies in biological dentistry- The immediate health benefits of removing dental infections- Current developments in ceramic implant technology- The importance of an integrated approach to dental health- The future of wellness-focused dentistryThis conversation serves as a reminder that dental health is far more than just maintaining a beautiful smile - it's a crucial component of overall wellness and vitality.

  7. 09/10/2024

    Nurturing Your Oral Microbiome for Lifelong Health Benefits

    In a recent podcast, I had the pleasure of engaging in a fascinating natter with Rebecca Edwards, Director of Education at Activated Probiotics, about the crucial role of the oral microbiome in dental and overall health. Our conversation unveiled the intricate connections between oral health and systemic wellbeing, emphasising the importance of maintaining a balanced oral microbiome. The Power of the Oral Microbiome: Why It Matters As a dental professional, I've come to understand that the oral microbiome is far more than just a collection of bacteria in our mouths; it's a complex ecosystem that plays a pivotal role in our overall health. Rebecca highlighted how the microbes in our mouths influence oral health and impact various bodily systems, including the immune system, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. Understanding the oral microbiome's significance is crucial because it is a gateway to the rest of our body, affecting everything from digestion to inflammation. Our discussion underscored the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach oral health, moving beyond just focusing on sugar intake and acid control to considering the broader implications of oral microbial balance. Unveiling the Oral Microbiome: What It Encompasses Through my research and discussions with experts like Rebecca, I've learned that the oral microbiome consists of diverse microorganisms that colonise our mouths, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These microbes form intricate communities on our teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral surfaces. While some bacteria, like Streptococcus mutans, are associated with tooth decay, others play protective roles. The balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria is crucial for maintaining oral health. Importantly, the oral microbiome isn't isolated; it interacts constantly with our immune system and can influence systemic health. For instance, certain oral bacteria have been linked to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the far-reaching effects of oral microbial health. Nurturing Your Oral Microbiome: How to Maintain Balance In my practice, I've learned that maintaining a healthy oral microbiome involves more than just brushing and flossing. We discussed the Activated Probiotics' Biome Dental, a specifically formulated oral probiotic containing strains clinically proven to support oral health. Rebecca shared some helpful tips on how to incorporate these probiotics into our daily routine: -Complete your regular oral hygiene routine (brushing, flossing, etc.). -Before bed, open a sachet of Biome Dental and pour the powder into your mouth, as it is a small amount of powder. -Swish the fast-melting powder around your teeth with your tongue before swallowing. -Use daily for at least 28 days for optimal results. Our discussion emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to oral care. I've learned that maintaining oral health goes beyond just using probiotics and includes proper nutrition, stress reduction, and addressing issues like mouth breathing. These factors can significantly impact the oral microbiome, either positively or negatively. This shows the interconnected nature of overall health and oral microbial balance, advocating for a comprehensive strategy in oral care. The Future of Oral Health: Exploring Potential Impacts I'm excited about the possibilities that our deepening understanding of the oral microbiome opens up for preventive healthcare and personalised treatments. By maintaining a healthy oral microbiome, we may potentially reduce the risk of not only dental issues but also systemic diseases. For pregnant women, nurturing a balanced oral microbiome could lead to better pregnancy outcomes and potentially influence the development of the fetus's microbiome. Early intervention with oral probiotics might contribute to more robust immune systems and fewer illnesses in children. We also discussed the potential for oral microbiome analysis to become a standard part of health assessments, offering insights into overall health status and disease risk. As research progresses, we'll see more targeted probiotic therapies and oral care products designed to support specific health outcomes through modulation of the oral microbiome. My conversation with Rebecca has illuminated the critical role of the oral microbiome in our health. By understanding and nurturing this vital ecosystem, we open the door to improved overall wellbeing, potentially revolutionising our approach to healthcare and disease prevention.

  8. 09/08/2024

    Bridging the Gap: Cannabis, Anxiety, and the Future of Dentistry

    Recently, I had Dr John Teh as a guest on my podcast, “Mouth Health Natters.” As the founder of Dental Wellness, which focuses on creating safer, healthier, and more beautiful smiles, I was particularly interested in Dr Teh’s expertise in medicinal cannabis and its potential applications in dentistry. Dr. Teh, the founder and medical director of Plant Med Clinic, shared his fascinating journey into medicinal cannabis. He explained how his career path shifted from surgery to cannabis medicine, sparked by a personal experience helping a friend with a brain tumor. I was intrigued to learn about the complexities of medicinal cannabis, especially the entourage effect. Dr Teh’s explanation of how THC, CBD, and various terpenes work together was enlightening. As a dentist, I found his insights on cannabis use for dental anxiety and chronic pain management particularly relevant to my practice. We discussed several dental-related applications, including managing trigeminal neuralgia and chronic neck pain. While Dr Teh noted that cannabis might not be ideal for acute pain from dental infections, its potential in chronic pain scenarios could be significant for many of my patients. Dr. Teh’s perspective on Australia’s medicinal cannabis landscape was eye-opening. As someone who’s been in the field since its legalization in 2016, his view that Australia possibly has the best medical framework for cannabis in the world was surprising and encouraging. I appreciated Dr. Teh’s balanced approach, especially his caution against rushed recreational legalization. His advocacy for a measured approach aligns well with my philosophy of careful, evidence-based practice in dentistry. The discussion on the social stigma surrounding cannabis use was particularly valuable. Dr Teh’s encouragement for people to explore medicinal cannabis for themselves, emphasizing its safety profile, could be reassuring for many of my patients who might be hesitant to consider it as a treatment option. Overall, this natter with Dr. Teh has expanded my understanding of medicinal cannabis and its potential role in dental care. It’s opened up new possibilities for how we might approach certain challenging conditions in dentistry, always to provide the best possible care for our patients. To understand this fascinating topic more deeply, please watch or listen to the entire podcast conversation with Dr Teh. The whole discussion offers even more insights into medicinal cannabis and its potential applications in dentistry and overall health care. Dr Teh mentioned an excellent educational resource for those interested in learning more. Planteducation.net.au offers both free and paid courses on medicinal cannabis. This platform provides information for professionals and patients who want to expand their knowledge in this rapidly evolving field. As we explore new frontiers in dental care and overall wellness, staying informed about emerging treatments like medicinal cannabis is helpful. I hope this natter with Dr Teh has piqued your interest and encouraged you to delve deeper into this vital topic.

See All (57)

About

Join the Mouth Health Natters podcast, on its quest for whole-body health and wellness! Grab a cup of tea, relax and learn with Dr David how oral health impacts your immune system, sleep, energy, inflammation & much more (& what you can do about it with holistic approaches). Dr David also interviews health experts about their expertise in prevention and management of chronic health conditions.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr David Cowhig
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr David Cowhig
  • Show Website
    Mouth Health Natters