In this podcast episode, Dr. Michael Bennett welcomes Julie Sager, Education Manager for Xlear and a practicing dental hygienist, to discuss practical clinical protocols that bridge the gap between oral health and total well-being. They explore the critical role of nasal breathing in the dental setting, detailing how pre-procedural nasal hygiene can significantly improve airway volume and patient comfort.

Julie shares the science behind xylitol and grapefruit seed extract, explaining their functions as anti-adhesives and mucolytics against airborne pathogens. They also delve into specific regimens for managing high-risk caries, periodontal disease, and dry mouth, as well as the benefits of chewing gum for pediatric orthodontic cases. Highlighting the importance of protecting both the patient and the provider from aerosols, the discussion emphasizes simple, effective strategies to enhance clinical outcomes and office productivity.

04:12 The "Congested Patient" Scenario

06:45 Pre-Procedural Protocols and Airway Studies

09:20 Correct Nasal Spray Technique

11:15 The Science of Xylitol and the Microbiome

14:10 Grapefruit Seed Extract and Drug Interactions

17:45 Provider Safety in Dental Aerosols

20:05 Oral Protocols: Caries, Perio, and Dry Mouth

27:30 Addressing Bad Breath and Tonsil Stones

31:10 Pediatric and Orthodontic Applications

If you found this episode valuable, share it with a colleague or friend who wants to breathe better, sleep deeper, and live healthier. Your support helps us expand the conversation around airway-focused care and whole-body wellness.

Together, we can move dentistry beyond the chair.

Michael Bennett, DDS, PhD

Board-Certified Dentist | Healthcare Professions Educator

Empowering total health through airway-focused dentistry

Advanced Dental Care – Dr. Bennett’s clinical practice and patient-centered services

Connect on LinkedIn – Join the movement for airway-first, total health dentistry

Guest Information:

Julie Sager is a practicing dental hygienist with over three decades of clinical experience. As the Education Manager for Xlear, she educates healthcare providers ranging from dentists to ENTs, on the research and implementation of xylitol-based protocols for airway and oral health.

https://www.morethanteeth.com/podcast/transforming-dental-appointments-through-better-breathing-and-oral-health-protocols