In this enlightening episode of Keeping Abreast , Dr. Jenn Simmons sits down with Dr. Staci Whitman, founder of NoPo Kids Dentistry and a pioneer in functional and holistic oral health. Together they uncover how the mouth serves as the gateway to the body—and why what happens there reverberates through every system. Dr. Whitman explains how chronic disease begins long before symptoms appear and how functional dentistry offers a path toward true prevention. From the oral microbiome and nutrition to mercury fillings, x-ray exposure, and the ongoing fluoride debate, she brings clarity and compassion to topics often overlooked in conventional care. Listeners will gain an understanding of biocompatibility in dental materials, the emotional toll of traditional dentistry, and how early-life oral care can shape a lifetime of wellness. This is an empowering look at how modern medicine and dentistry can finally come together to support whole-body health. 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why chronic disease often begins in the mouth How root canals can influence systemic health The principles of functional and holistic dentistry How nutrition impacts teeth, gums, and the microbiome What to know about x-rays, mercury fillings, and safe removal Why biocompatibility testing for dental materials matters The crucial role of saliva and the oral microbiome The mental-health challenges many dentists face How pediatric oral care shapes lifelong wellness Why dentistry’s future depends on integration and education Episode Timeline Highlights: 00:00 The Epidemic of Chronic Disease 03:11 Holistic Dentistry: A New Approach 06:12 Root Canals and Systemic Health 08:50 The Shift to Functional Dentistry 12:03 The Role of Nutrition in Oral Health 15:07 Integrating Dentistry and Medicine 18:12 The Importance of Oral Microbiome 21:00 Testing and Monitoring Oral Health 23:59 X-Rays and Radiation Concerns 27:04 Mercury in Dentistry 30:07 Safe Removal of Mercury Fillings 42:16 Biocompatibility in Dentistry 45:07 Mental Health in Dentistry 49:03 The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry 51:05 The Evolution of Oral Health 57:55 The Fluoride Debate 01:10:5 5 Heroes in Functional Dentistry 01:13:56 Finding Biologic Dentists 01:18:59 The Future of Dental Education Where to find Dr. Staci Whitman: Website: https://doctorstaci.com Social Media: @doctor_staci To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons
