‍Transforming Dental Appointments Through Better Breathing and Oral Health Protocols

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Featuring Dr. Michael Bennett & Julie Sager, RDH

In this episode of the More Than Teeth Podcast, host Dr. Michael Bennett sits down with Julie Sager, a registered dental hygienist and Education Manager for CLEAR, to explore practical clinical protocols that improve patient comfort, appointment efficiency, and long-term oral and airway health.

With more than 60 years of combined clinical experience, Dr. Bennett and Julie move beyond theory and focus on what truly works in real dental settings — from managing nasal congestion during procedures to improving caries prevention, periodontal health, and patient compliance.

Below are the key insights and actionable takeaways from their conversation.

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Why Nasal Breathing Is a Game-Changer in Dentistry

One of the biggest challenges in dental practices is treating patients who cannot comfortably breathe through their nose. Congestion can trigger anxiety, gag reflexes, prolonged appointments, and workflow disruptions for the entire office.

Julie explains that many patients who struggle in the dental chair are actually mouth breathers. When nasal breathing is compromised, the body enters a stress response, increasing muscle tension and discomfort.

A Simple Pre-Appointment Protocol That Works

Julie recommends a pre-procedural nasal spray protocol:

• Two sprays in each nostril
  
  
• Wait approximately three minutes before beginning treatment
  
  
• Encourage nasal breathing during the appointment
  
  

Clinical studies show this method can increase nasal airflow volume by up to 20% within minutes. In practice, Julie has seen patients tolerate X-rays, ultrasonic cleanings, and longer procedures without coughing, gagging, or anxiety.

This protocol improves:

• Patient comfort
  
  
• Appointment efficiency
  
  
• Chair time consistency
  
  
• Overall clinical outcomes
  
  

Proper Nasal Spray Technique Matters

Correct application dramatically improves results:

1. Tilt the head slightly forward.
   
   
2. Aim the spray inward and slightly back — not straight upward.
   
   
3. Spray and gently sniff.
   
   
4. Repeat on the opposite side.
   
   

This targets the lower nasal turbinates where airflow improvement occurs while avoiding irritation in the upper nasal cavity.

How Xylitol Supports Nasal and Immune Health

Xylitol plays several important roles in nasal health:

• Anti-adhesive: Prevents airborne pathogens from attaching to nasal tissues
  
  
• Mucolytic: Thins airway surface fluid to improve airflow and clearance
  
  
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces tissue swelling and congestion
  
  
• Osmotic effect: Pulls excess fluid out of inflamed tissues
  
  

CLEAR nasal spray also contains grapefruit seed extract, which provides strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal protection. Unlike grapefruit fruit, grapefruit seed extract does not interact with medications.

For dental professionals exposed to aerosols daily, consistent nasal hygiene can significantly reduce upper respiratory infections and sick days.

Xylitol’s Impact on Oral Health and Caries Prevention

Xylitol is one of the most researched ingredients in preventive dentistry. Decades of studies show:

• 70–90% reduction in dental decay when used consistently
  
  
• Modulates harmful bacteria instead of killing healthy flora
  
  
• Neutralizes oral pH within minutes
  
  

Julie demonstrates how chewing xylitol gum or using mints after meals quickly restores a balanced oral environment.

Best Xylitol Protocol for Patients

• Brush with xylitol toothpaste morning and night
  
  
• After meals or snacks, use xylitol gum or mints for 2–3 minutes
  
  
• Maintain consistent daily exposure rather than consuming all at once
  
  

This approach reduces plaque buildup, stabilizes pH, and limits bacterial adhesion.

Supporting Periodontal Health After Treatment

For periodontal maintenance and post-scaling care, Julie recommends an alcohol-free xylitol-based mouthwash that contains:

• Erythritol for biofilm reduction
  
  
• Aloe, chamomile, thyme, and olive leaf for tissue healing
  
  
• Calcium for remineralization support
  
  

Using this rinse twice daily supports healing, reduces inflammation, and protects beneficial oral bacteria.

Managing Dry Mouth and Bad Breath

Effective management starts with:

• Daily tongue cleaning
  
  
• Xylitol products to reduce plaque and volatile sulfur compounds
  
  
• Nasal spray use to address bacteria in the tonsillar and pharyngeal regions
  
  

Persistent halitosis often originates beyond visible oral tissues, making nasal care an essential part of treatment.

Pediatric and Orthodontic Applications

Xylitol protocols are safe for children at the same dosage as adults. Regular use helps balance oral bacteria and supports cavity prevention.

For orthodontic patients:

• Xylitol gum does not stick to brackets or fixed appliances
  
  
• Chewing stimulates bone remodeling and airway development
  
  
• Avoid gum use with clear aligners
  
  

Chewing also supports jaw development and muscle function, contributing to long-term airway health in growing patients.

Final Thoughts

This conversation highlights how simple, evidence-based protocols can dramatically improve both patient experience and clinical efficiency. From nasal breathing optimization to microbiome-friendly oral care, these approaches empower dental teams to deliver more comfortable, predictable, and healthier outcomes.

Julie also offers team training opportunities for practices interested in implementing these protocols successfully.

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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

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More about the guest:

‍Julie Sager, RDH, BSDH is a seasoned dental professional with more than 30 years of clinical and educational experience, now serving as an education manager and speaker for dental and interdisciplinary health professionals. She specializes in integrating airway health, practical clinical protocols, and evidence-based preventive care — especially involving tools like xylitol nasal sprays that support both nasal and oral health.