65. When the Mouth Speaks for the Body: Exploring Biologic Dentistry with Dr. Toni Engram

Welcome back to The Root of the Matter. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Toni Engram, a SMART-certified biologic dentist, integrative health coach, and founder of Flourish Dental Boutique in Texas. From the moment we connected, it felt like talking with a soul sister. Our journeys through personal illness, holistic healing, and biologic dentistry mirror each other in many ways, and this conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about how the mouth and body are deeply intertwined.Dr. Engram shares her personal story of being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, and how that turning point inspired her to reimagine the way she practiced dentistry. Instead of following the conventional model, she began to explore oral-systemic health, functional medicine, and the root causes of inflammation. Her journey led her to create a fluoride-free, mercury-safe dental practice where patients are cared for with a focus on prevention, healing, and whole-body wellness.Together, we explore the connections between oral health, the gut microbiome, and the nervous system. We talk about why airway health, tongue ties, and sleep apnea matter more than most people realize, and how breathing patterns can influence everything from digestion to a child’s development. Dr. Engram also opens up about the challenges of transitioning a conventional dental practice to a biologic model, and why authenticity is so important when guiding patients through this work.What We Dive Into in This EpisodeDr. Engram’s healing journey with Crohn’s disease and how it shaped her careerThe overlap between gut dysbiosis, oral inflammation, and systemic healthSleep apnea, airway health, and the role of the nervous system in preventionWhy fluoride-free and mercury-safe dentistry supports long-term healthSalivary testing, microbiome diversity, and why pH balance matters more than fluorideHow materials like composites, zirconia, and biocompatible ceramics impact the bodyThe power of ozone, PRF, and functional tools for saving teeth and preventing root canalsCreating a dental practice that is truly authentic and patient-centeredThis conversation is full of practical pearls and heart-centered wisdom. Whether you’re a patient curious about biologic dentistry, a mom navigating your child’s oral health, or a provider looking for inspiration on the path toward more holistic care, you’ll leave this episode with fresh perspective and hope.Connect with Dr. Toni IngramWebsite: flourish.dentalInstagram: @drtoniengram✨ 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=2025-08Disclaimer: 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.  Opinions from guests are their own, and this podcast does not condone or endorse opinions made by guests.  This podcast and its guests may have direct or indirect financial interests associated with products mentioned.