Oral Health: The Root of the Matter

Dr. Rachaele Carver, D.M.D. Board-Certified, Biologic, Naturopathic Dentist
  • 4.8 (17)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Welcome to the world of biologic dentistry! Meet your host, Dr. Rachaele Carver, who presents a comprehensive overview of biologic dentistry and interviews amazing holistic, functional medicine doctors and health practitioners. Dr. Rachaele Carver, D.M.D. is a Board-Certified, Biologic, Naturopathic Dentist & Certified Health Coach.She owns and practices at Carver Family Dentistry in North Adams, Mass. She is on a mission to provide the best quality holistic dentistry available and educate the world about biologic dentistry.Learn from one of the best biologic holistic dentists in the country easy, effective methods of improving your dental and oral health and how to use this to improve your overall health! Did you know that many people with a chronic or recurring disease or physical condition can be greatly helped by improving their oral health? Find out how biologic dentistry can help with disease prevention or eradication. Become your own oral health advocate! Find the best dentist for you. Listen and share with your family and friends!

  1. 3D AGO

    76. Heart Disease Is Reversible: The Oral-Systemic Link, Hidden Infections, and the True Root Cause of Cardiovascular Disease

    Heart disease is still the #1 killer of men and women worldwide. And yet, despite decades of medications, procedures, and guidelines, we haven’t moved the needle. So the real question is… why? In this short but powerful solo episode, I revisit a message that matters deeply to me, because it saves lives: 👉 Heart disease is not a cholesterol problem.  👉 It’s not a blood pressure problem.  👉 And it’s not a medication deficiency. At the root of it all… it’s inflammation, toxicity, and infection, and one of the most overlooked sources lives right inside the mouth. In this episode, we unpack: Why heart disease is completely reversible when we address root causesThe truth about LDL (“bad cholesterol”) and why it’s actually a repair signalHow damaged blood vessels trigger cholesterol buildup, not the other way aroundThe surprising role of gum disease and oral bacteria in heart attacks and strokesWhy bleeding gums are never “normal” (even if they don’t hurt)How oral pathogens like P. gingivalis contribute to:Heart diseaseStrokeDementiaKidney diseaseCertain cancersThe connection between oral infections, leaky gut, and systemic inflammationHow medications can quietly tax the liver and mitochondria, draining your energy over timeWhy simply lowering numbers doesn’t heal the bodyAnd how restoring balance, rather than killing everything, creates true resilienceA key takeaway I want to leave you with: Cholesterol isn’t the enemy. Blood pressure isn’t the villain. They’re messengers. When we listen, really listen, we can reverse the process instead of managing the damage. If you or someone you love has: High blood pressureHigh cholesterolHeart diseaseBleeding gumsChronic inflammationLow energyThis episode is an invitation to look deeper, starting with the mouth, the microbiome, and the body’s natural ability to heal. Healing doesn’t happen by silencing symptoms.  It happens when we create safety, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s innate wisdom. Maybe today’s step is simply this: Check your gums. Take one deep breath. And remember, you have more power than you’ve been told. Connect with Dr. Carver Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    12 min

  2. FEB 1

    75. The Hidden Oral Infections Keeping You Stuck in Chronic Illness Dr. Kelly Blodgett

    Dr. Kelly Blodgett returns to The Root of the Matter for a heartfelt conversation about his new book, Feel Whole Again, and the profound intersection of psychology, human connection, and dentistry. With a background in psychology and over 30 years in practice, Dr. Blodgett shares why understanding a patient's mindset, emotions, and intuition is just as important as clinical expertise. This episode dives deep into the power of truly listening, the limitations of symptom-focused healthcare, and how treating the whole person (not just the teeth) can transform lives. What You'll Learn Why Dr. Blodgett wrote Feel Whole Again and how his psychology degree shaped his approach to dentistry The often-overlooked connection between thoughts, beliefs, and physical health outcomes Real patient stories of transformation, from feeling hopeless to reclaiming vitality Why biological dentistry treats the mouth as a whole system, and why that matters for predictable healing The role of nutrition and prep work before dental surgery How social isolation and mindset can be the missing pieces in chronic illness What to look for (and ask) when choosing a biological dentist The energy component of oral health, and why removing toxicity is essential Key Quotes "Listen to the patient. He's telling you the diagnosis." "Every cell of your body is listening to your thoughts." Patient Transformation Stories Dr. Blodgett shares two powerful cases of women from Seattle who felt like they were losing hope in their health journeys. One, a chronic smoker who hadn't chewed real food in 20 years, went through a comprehensive protocol of nutrition, mindset work, and full-mouth rehabilitation, and by the end of the year, she was biting through sandwiches and kissing her husband without worry. The other, a former triathlete whose health tanked after incomplete dental work, underwent proper cavitation and bone cleaning and is now back to training for triathlons. Resources Mentioned Feel Whole Again by Dr. Kelly Blodgett, available on Amazon (ebook, paperback, hardback) IABDM (International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine): iabdm.org Bio Dental Global Standard by Dr. Dominic Nischwitz Megan Barnett, Functional Nutritionist Root Cause Protocol (Morley Robbins) Connect with Dr. Kelly Blodgett Practice Website: blodgettdentalcare.com Coaching & Speaking: drkellyjblodgett.com Connect with Dr. Carver  Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    52 min

  3. JAN 18

    74. Why Your Nervous System Is the Missing Link in Health, Detox, and Healing

    What if real healing this year has less to do with trying harder and more to do with listening differently? In this episode of The Root of the Matter, Dr. Rachaele Carver explores why New Year’s resolutions so often fail and what actually creates lasting change in the body. Instead of focusing on goals, this conversation centers on values, nervous system regulation, and the foundational pillars of health that support true healing from the inside out. Drawing from clinical experience, personal health challenges, and a powerful reminder from time spent in Italy, Dr. Carver explains how safety, rest, and emotional regulation directly impact digestion, inflammation, detoxification, and overall resilience. This episode is an invitation to slow down, realign, and build health in a way your body can actually sustain. In this episode, you will learn: Why most New Year’s resolutions do not stickThe difference between chasing goals and living in alignment with valuesThe five core pillars of health that influence oral and whole-body wellnessWhy nervous system regulation is the foundation of digestion, immunity, and detoxHow stress disrupts minerals, enzymes, and gut healthWhy detox does not work when the body does not feel safeHow relaxation and environment can dramatically change inflammation and symptomsSimple ways to support your nervous system before changing your diet or routineKey themes discussed: Nervous system health as the missing link in chronic symptomsDiet, sleep, movement, and minerals as supportive tools, not fixesEmotional and mental health as drivers of physical healingConsistency and planning as acts of self-respect, not disciplineListening to the body instead of forcing it to complyA grounding takeaway Your body is not broken.  It is responding exactly as it was designed to. Healing happens when we stop fighting symptoms and start creating the conditions where the body feels safe enough to repair, digest, and release. Maybe the first step this year is not a new plan, but a slower breath. Your body already knows the way. Connect with Dr. Carver Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    51 min

  4. JAN 4

    73. Values Over Resolutions: How Alignment Creates Lasting Health and Energy

    After a brief pause at the end of the year, Dr. Rachaele Carver returns with a powerful solo episode to open 2026, inviting listeners to rethink the way we approach change, healing, and personal growth. Instead of setting New Year’s resolutions that often fade by February, this episode explores a deeper and more sustainable framework: living in alignment with your values. Dr. Carver unpacks why so many goals fail when they are driven by “shoulds” rather than meaning, and how shifting toward values-based living can transform not only oral health, but energy, confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. This conversation blends personal stories, clinical insight, and reflective questions to help listeners begin the year with clarity, compassion, and intention. In this episode, Dr. Carver discusses: Why traditional New Year’s resolutions rarely stickThe difference between goals and values, and why values matter moreHow living out of alignment drains energy and fuels burnoutThe connection between values, nervous system regulation, and healthHow thoughts become beliefs, and beliefs shape realityParenting, anxiety, and helping children live in their own valuesRecognizing physical and emotional signals from the body as guidanceQuestions to help identify your core valuesSigns you may be living out of alignmentHow values-based living improves decision-making, boundaries, and fulfillmentWhy integrity and empowered teaching are central themes in Dr. Carver’s life and practiceSetting intentions for the year ahead through alignment rather than pressureResources mentioned: Firefly Therapy AustinDr. John Demartini’s Values Assessment (drdemartini.com/values)Podcast: Energized with Dr. MarizaClosing reflection: Healing doesn’t come from pushing harder or chasing outcomes. It comes from slowing down, listening deeply, and allowing our actions to flow from what truly matters. When we live in our values, the body responds.  And everything we want begins to unfold naturally. Thank you for being part of The Root of the Matter. Here’s to a grounded, aligned, and nourishing year ahead. 🌿 Connect with Dr. Carver Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    27 min

  5. 11/23/2025

    72. How to Heal Early Cavities Naturally: Minerals, pH & Tooth Powder Explained

    In today’s episode of The Root of the Matter, I sit down with Jennifer Rankin, owner of Wonder Oral Wellness, to explore a question I get almost daily: “What toothpaste should I use?” And more importantly… “Does it actually help my teeth remineralize?” Jennifer’s story is one of my favorites because it is so real. She started out as a customer who was simply trying to help her child avoid a cavity and ended up buying the company that changed her family’s oral health. Yes, really. Together, we unpack: 🌿 Why tooth powder is making a comeback Powders were the original way humans cared for their teeth. They are mineral rich, gentle, and free of the preservatives that paste requires. And honestly, your enamel loves them. 🦷 What actually remineralizes your teeth No, it is not fluoride. Your teeth are not made of fluoride. They are made of minerals. Inside this episode, we break down ingredients that actually rebuild enamel, including: bentonite clay for detox and natural mineralsmicro hydroxyapatite from grass fed sourcescalcium and phosphorus in bioavailable formsbaking soda for healthy pHessential oils and cacao powder for gentle antimicrobial supportYour body recognizes real nutrients and it knows exactly what to do with them. 👶 How Jennifer reversed her son’s early cavity This part of her story still gives me chills. Within months of using Wonder’s tooth powder, a cavity that was headed toward a filling simply disappeared. The power of minerals, saliva, and the right environment never stops amazing me. 🌬️ Why the oral microbiome matters more than ever We talk about: the problem with mouthwashhow minerals fuel a healthy microbiomewhy foaming agents like SLS disrupt enameland why kids’ teeth are struggling more todayAt the root of it all, your mouth is an ecosystem, not a war zone. 🧠 Nano vs. Micro Hydroxyapatite Jennifer explains why Wonder chooses micro, non synthetic hydroxyapatite sourced from New Zealand cattle and why you want your enamel support to come from something that looks like real food, not a lab. 🍓 Flavors that support the oral microbiome From peppermint to citrus berry to the new cacao mint blend, every flavor uses real food grade ingredients with no natural flavors. The chocolate one also makes an amazing stocking stuffer. ✨ Resources Mentioned Wonder Oral Wellness tooth powders and oral care https://wonderoralwellness.comBreath by James NestorThe Dental Diet by Dr. Steven LinBamboo toothbrushes, silk floss, and pH stripsYour teeth were designed to heal. Your body is always communicating with you through your gums, your saliva, your breath, and your energy. When we give it minerals, calm, and the right environment, it knows exactly how to repair. Maybe today’s step is simply checking Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    47 min

  6. 11/09/2025

    71. Regenerative Healing, Stem Cells, and Exosomes with Dr. Jeff Gross

    In this episode of The Root of the Matter, Dr. Rachaele Carver sits down with regenerative medicine pioneer Dr. Jeff Gross, founder of Re-CELLebrate, to explore how stem cells, exosomes, and regenerative therapies are reshaping the future of healing. You’ll learn how these tiny cellular messengers help the body repair itself naturally, what they mean for oral health, joint pain, TMJ dysfunction, inflammation, and aging, plus everyday ways to stimulate your own stem cells through fasting, sauna, and mindful living. If you’re curious about the science of cellular regeneration, longevity, and whole-body repair, this episode offers both grounded science and real-world hope. Key Topics What stem cells and exosomes are, and how they accelerate healingHow regenerative medicine supports joint, spine, and TMJ healthWhy oral health and blood flow are key to faster recoveryHow to naturally boost stem cell activity with fasting, sauna, and cold therapyThe connection between inflammation, hormones, and agingWhy bone health is often the real root cause behind “arthritis” painThe future of exosome therapy for longevity and anti-aging supportStem cell therapy, exosome therapy, regenerative medicine, natural healing, joint regeneration, oral health, PRF dentistry, TMJ therapy, anti-aging, inflammation reduction, stem cell activation, longevity medicine, holistic dentistry, cellular repair, Dr. Jeff Gross, Dr. Rachaele Carver, Re-CELLebrate, exosome benefits, regenerative dentistry, holistic health podcast. Takeaways Healing happens when the body remembers how to communicate. Exosomes are those messengers.Blood flow equals life. Support it, don’t suppress it.You can activate your own stem cells through rhythm, heat, cold, and rest.Regenerative medicine and holistic dentistry share one truth — the body knows how to heal when you clear the interference.Resources Guest: Dr. Jeff Gross, Founder of Re-CELLlebrate — re-cellebrate.co Instagram @recellabrateConnect with Dr. Carver Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    45 min

  7. 10/26/2025

    70. Oral Health & Breast Cancer: What the Mouth Tells Us About the Body

    In this special Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode, Dr. Rachaele Carver explores how your mouth may hold clues to breast health. From gum disease and oral bacteria to hormone balance and energy flow, she breaks down surprising connections between oral inflammation, estrogen levels, and breast cancer risk. You’ll learn how bacteria like P. gingivalis can trigger inflammatory cytokines that affect tissues far beyond the mouth and why supporting your oral microbiome and hormone health may be one of the best preventive steps you can take. Dr. Carver also discusses: How oral bacteria travel through the blood and lymph systems Why estrogen levels impact gum health, dry mouth, and tissue strength The role of inflammation and cytokines in cancer risk Tests you can try from saliva microbiome panels (Bristle) to tear-based breast screening (Auria) How energy flow, lymph movement, and stress affect healing Simple daily steps to keep your mouth, hormones, and immune system in sync Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, focused on prevention, or supporting someone through breast cancer, this episode is packed with actionable insights for a truly holistic approach to wellness. 👉 Book your 1:1 oral–systemic consult or explore the 6-week “Reverse Gum Disease” course using the links below. Key Takeaways Oral health is systemic health your mouth reflects your immune and hormonal balance.Estrogen helps maintain the mucosal barrier; low estrogen increases oral dryness and disease risk.P. gingivalis and other bacteria are linked to inflammation that may influence cancer progression.Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt your oral microbiome — balance is key.Dental screening and lymph support are essential before any major surgery.Energy flow and emotional health (think: Qigong, acupuncture, grounding) are part of true prevention.Resources Mentioned Bristle Test – Oral microbiome saliva testAuria – At-home tear-based breast cancer screeningDNA Connexions – Pathogen detection testEnergy for Life – Biofeedback systemPEMF / AMP Coil / Dr. Tennant’s Tools – Support cellular energyYoQi.com – Qigong videos for energy flowConnect with Dr. Carver Join the 6-Week Gum Disease Course: https://reversegumdiseaseinsixweeks.info/optinpage Book Your Personalized Consultation: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-10 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    34 min

  8. 10/19/2025

    69. Is Your House Making You Sick? The Toxic Home Audit with Cathy Cooke

    In this eye-opening episode of The Root of the Matter, Dr. Rachaele Carver continues the Detox Series with a conversation that goes beyond supplements and diet and straight into your home environment. Joined by Kathy Cooke, holistic nutritionist and certified Building Biologist, they uncover the invisible toxins hiding in your home, from EMFs and mold to plastics, fragrances, and non-stick cookware. Learn practical, affordable swaps to reduce toxins, improve air quality, and create a healthier space for you and your family. Whether you are just getting started or ready for a full home detox, this episode gives you the tools and motivation to make meaningful change. In This Episode What makes your home “toxic” and how to tell if it’s making you sickEMFs explained: why your Wi-Fi and cell phone may be stressing your cellsHow to hardwire your tech and reduce EMF exposure without living off-gridThe hidden dangers of fragrances, parabens, phthalates, and PFASMold, air quality, and the importance of regular dusting and purificationSmart swaps: cookware, cleaning supplies, beauty products, and furnitureWhy endocrine disruptors affect fertility, mood, and early pubertyCreating resilience through supplements, grounding, sunlight, and stress reductionBudget-friendly ways to move from toxic house to healthy homeKey Takeaways You can’t detox your body if your environment is toxic.Start small; one swap at a time adds up fast.Choose glass, stainless, ceramic, cotton, and essential oils over synthetics.Air purifiers and hardwired internet create a healthier home energy.Prevention is easier and more affordable than treatment.Kathy Cooke is a holistic nutritionist and certified Building Biologist specializing in environmental health, air quality, and toxin-free living. Through her company Whole Home and Body Health, she helps families identify and remove hidden environmental hazards. Website: wholehomeandbodyhealth.com  Instagram: @wholehomeandbodyhealth Resources: BuildingBiologyInstitute.org Thank you for helping us reach the top 5% of podcasts in the oral health space! Because of your support, we’re now offering one-on-one consultations for those ready to take their oral health to the next level.  Check the link in the show notes to book your personalized session and begin your journey to a healthier, brighter smile today. Here is the link to schedule: https://calendly.com/drcarver-1/health-coaching-consult?month=2025-09 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Information discussed is not intended for diagnosis, curing, or prevention of any disease and is not intended to replace advice given by a licensed healthcare practitioner. Before using any products mentioned or attempting methods discussed, please speak with a licensed healthcare provider. This podcast disclaims responsibility from any possible adverse reactions associated with products or methods discussed. Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests. We do not provide guarantees about the guests' qualifications or credibility. This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.

    53 min
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About

Welcome to the world of biologic dentistry! Meet your host, Dr. Rachaele Carver, who presents a comprehensive overview of biologic dentistry and interviews amazing holistic, functional medicine doctors and health practitioners. Dr. Rachaele Carver, D.M.D. is a Board-Certified, Biologic, Naturopathic Dentist & Certified Health Coach.She owns and practices at Carver Family Dentistry in North Adams, Mass. She is on a mission to provide the best quality holistic dentistry available and educate the world about biologic dentistry.Learn from one of the best biologic holistic dentists in the country easy, effective methods of improving your dental and oral health and how to use this to improve your overall health! Did you know that many people with a chronic or recurring disease or physical condition can be greatly helped by improving their oral health? Find out how biologic dentistry can help with disease prevention or eradication. Become your own oral health advocate! Find the best dentist for you. Listen and share with your family and friends!

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Rachaele Carver, D.M.D. Board-Certified, Biologic, Naturopathic Dentist
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    76
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Oral Health: The Root of the Matter
  • Show Website
    Oral Health: The Root of the Matter

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