Microbiome-Focused Approach to Human and Pet Dental Care

Dr Emily Stein, a microbiologist and postdoctoral fellow in rheumatology and immunology at Stanford University, has pioneered a total oral health solution that targets both humans and pets. Stein’s journey began in 2009 when her grandmother suffered a major stroke following a routine tooth extraction, shedding light on the potential health risks associated with dental procedures.

Biohacking for Solutions

Determined to find a preventive solution, Stein established Primal Health, a company dedicated to rectifying oral dysbiosis, an imbalance in the mouth’s microbiome. Stein took oral samples from her grandmother, initiating a comprehensive study of her oral microbiome. For several years, Stein dedicated herself to “biohacking” her grandmother, leading to the inception of Primal Health.

The journey didn’t end there. In 2012, Stein’s adoption of a Cocker Spaniel named Tinzley added another layer to her work. Tinzley’s distress and subsequent bloodstream infection due to gum disease emphasised the need for a holistic oral health solution for pets. Primal Health, through its brand Teef for Life, offers innovative solutions designed to maintain a strong and properly aligned oral microbiome in dogs and cats.

Challenging Conventional Approaches

Stein believes that conventional antibiotic and antiseptic methods fall short in curbing harmful microbes in the mouth and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Primal Health’s human brand, Daily Dental Care, and animal care brand, Teef for Life, propose a unique approach to oral health.

Both product lines advocate for a strong oral microbiome, essential for overall health. Daily Dental Care’s pHossident lozenge uses FDA-recognized safe ingredients to prevent acid and plaque production, fostering conditions for beneficial bacteria growth. Teef for Life introduces drinking water additives made from plant-derived ingredients, offering gentle plaque and tartar removal and preventing bad breath in pets.

Nutritional ‘Carrot and Stick’ Approach

The products aim to shift oral bacteria to a keto diet, redirecting them from processing carbohydrates and sugars to proteins, resulting in less harmful byproducts. Combined with proper diet and tooth brushing, these solutions contribute to enhanced oral health and a reduced risk of gum disease.

Dr Stein, drawing from her personal experiences and extensive study in microbiology, immunology, and rheumatology, emphasises the importance of a robust oral microbiome. Amidst the $390 billion annual spending on global oral healthcare and a staggering 1 in 2 people suffering from dental disease, Stein’s innovative approach seeks to challenge the status quo, offering a transformative path forward in oral healthcare.