Episode 348: How Your Oral Health Affects Your Gut, Hormones, and Mental Health with Dr. Rebecca Edwards

Did you know your oral health may be influencing your gut microbiome, hormone balance, sleep quality, inflammation, and even your mental health? In this episode, host Erin Kerry sits down with biological and airway-focused dentist Dr. Rebecca Edwards to explore why the mouth is much more than a place for cavities and cleanings. Together, they discuss the oral microbiome, mouth breathing, sleep apnea, root canals, gum health, hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause, childhood airway development, and how oral inflammation may contribute to whole-body symptoms. You'll also learn why biological dentistry looks beyond treating teeth to uncover root causes, how oral bacteria can affect gut health, and practical ways to support healthier mouths—and healthier bodies. Whether you're struggling with fatigue, anxiety, hormone changes, chronic inflammation, or simply want a more holistic approach to your health, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the connection between oral health and overall wellness. Key Topics: - Biological dentistry vs. traditional dentistry - The oral microbiome and gut health - Mouth breathing and airway health - Oral health and mental health - Root canals and whole-body inflammation - Hormones, perimenopause, and oral changes - Childhood airway development and immune health - Sleep-disordered breathing - Functional medicine and oral health - Faith, stress, and whole-person healing Links Mentioned: Website: grovedental.com Podcast: The Tea on Teeth Knead Your Cure Conference: kneadyourcure.com Join Erin’s monthly mailing list to get health tips and fresh meal plans and recipes every month: https://mailchi.mp/adde1b3a4af3/monthlysparksignup