Alexander Volchonok, DMD: What your mouth says about your health

June 4, 2025

When Your Smile Reveals the Health of Your Entire Body

Your gums serve as more than just a foundation for your teeth—they act as a critical frontline defense system, much like your skin, protecting your entire body from harmful bacteria and pathogens. This fascinating connection between oral health and systemic wellness was the focus of an enlightening conversation between Tetrahealth Dentistry co-founder Dr. Alexander Volchonok, DMD and Dr. Florence Comite on the Healthy Longevity podcast.

"If your gums are not healthy, you are not healthy," explains Dr. Volchonok, a pioneering biologic dentist and periodontal surgeon. This isn't just dental advice—it's a fundamental principle of integrative health that reveals how the mouth serves as a window into your body's overall condition.


Revolutionary Insights That Change Everything

The conversation unveils groundbreaking discoveries that challenge traditional thinking about oral health. Bleeding gums, often dismissed as a minor inconvenience, are actually warning signals of oral microbiome dysbiosis—a condition with far-reaching consequences for your endocrine system, cardiovascular health, and even brain function.


Key Discoveries You'll Learn:

  • Advanced Diagnostic Technology: Biologic dentistry employs cutting-edge modalities including high-definition CBCT scans and salivary DNA testing to detect inflammation markers and analyze your oral microbiome with unprecedented precision.
  • Hidden Infections Revealed: State-of-the-art imaging can penetrate below the gum surface to uncover completely asymptomatic infections, enabling early intervention before advanced disease develops.
  • Aging Myths Debunked: Declining oral health isn't an inevitable part of aging. With proper care and understanding, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout your entire life.
  • The Heart Connection: Research reveals that atherosclerotic plaques in heart vessels contain oral bacteria that traveled through the bloodstream from compromised "leaky" gums—a direct pathway from mouth to heart.
  • Brain Health Link: Oral bacteria can trigger inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-1 and interleukin-6, which cross the blood-brain barrier and may contribute to Alzheimer's dementia progression.


Your Action Plan for Optimal Oral-Systemic Health

Dr. Volchonok's practical recommendations center on two game-changing tools: a high-quality electric toothbrush and a water flosser (like the classic Waterpik). But the conversation goes far deeper, emphasizing the critical importance of comprehensive oral screenings that utilize advanced diagnostic technologies.

The episode challenges listeners to view oral health through a new lens—not as isolated dental care, but as an integral component of whole-body wellness and healthy longevity.


Ready to discover what your mouth reveals about your overall health?


This compelling discussion offers both the science and practical steps to transform your approach to oral-systemic wellness.

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By Alex Volchonok August 14, 2025
Dive Deep into Gum Recession Origins and Risks Gum recession is a common yet often misunderstood condition affecting countless individuals. Understanding what causes gums to recede requires a look into the anatomy of the gums and how various factors contribute to this issue. Age is a natural element that can lead to gum tissue wearing down, but other influences such as inflammation from periodontal disease and genetic predispositions play significant roles. Recognizing these factors is vital, as early detection might mitigate severe consequences that develop if gum recession is left unchecked. By staying aware of the potential causes, dental patients can more effectively monitor their oral health and seek prompt care. This proactive approach is paramount in managing gum recession and maintaining optimal dental health. Key Indicators of Gum Recession: Symptoms to Watch Early recognition of gum recession is crucial to prevent further damage. Common symptoms include increased sensitivity, especially to hot or cold beverages and foods, which is often the first sign that something might be wrong. Gum sensitivity might accompany visible root exposure, resulting from gums pulling back from the teeth. Inflammation, characterized by redness and swelling, can indicate underlying issues that need attention. Dental patients should remain vigilant, regularly inspecting their gums for any changes in color, texture, or sensation. Seeking professional counsel promptly when these symptoms arise can help in diagnosing and addressing the situation early. Ultimately, awareness and early intervention are key strategies in combating the onset and progression of gum recession. Exploring Conventional and Cutting-Edge Treatments Traditional treatments provide a roadmap for effectively managing receding gums. One of the standard methods is deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, which helps remove bacteria and tartar from beneath the gum line. For more advanced cases, surgical interventions such as gum grafting restore the area by covering exposed roots with healthy gum tissue. Regenerative therapies focus on stimulating bone and tissue growth to encourage recovery. Patients exploring these treatments should consider various factors, including recovery time, cost, and potential discomfort during and after the procedure. Collaboration with a dental professional can ensure that the chosen treatment aligns with the patient's specific needs and condition. This thoughtful approach forms the basis of long-term gum health management and recovery. Pioneering Advances in Periodontal Care Modern medicine is constantly evolving, and periodontal therapy is no exception. Innovations such as laser-assisted procedures offer minimally invasive solutions for treating receding gums with precision. In addition to lasers, biologic approaches catering to individual patient profiles have emerged, capitalizing on regenerative properties to enhance healing. These advanced treatments minimize discomfort and expedite recovery times, making them an attractive option for many. Dental patients interested in exploring these innovations should seek practitioners who specialize in the latest techniques. Employing state-of-the-art methods ensures a personalized and highly effective treatment experience. By embracing the future of periodontal care, patients can achieve improved outcomes and long-term dental health. Comprehensive Care from Dr. Alex Volchonok In the realm of periodontal health, Dr. Alex Volchonok stands out with his dedication to integrating advanced diagnostics into treatment plans. His expertise lies in applying biologic dental principles to address the underlying causes of gum recession for each patient. This customized approach not only focuses on immediate symptoms but also promotes sustainable healing and maintenance of healthy gums. Dental patients can trust in the thorough care provided by Dr. Volchonok, knowing that their treatment is tailored to address their unique needs. With cutting-edge techniques and compassionate care, Dr. Volchonok ensures patients enjoy the benefits of long-lasting oral health. Dentaluxe Dental Implant Specialists of Jacksonville is proud to host such esteemed expertise within our practice. Experience Advanced Treatments at Tetrahealth At Tetrahealth, we are committed to providing integrative biologic solutions that enhance oral and systemic health. Our practice leverages state-of-the-art technology and specialized treatment protocols to ensure our patients receive the highest standard of care. Whether managing advanced gum recession or addressing complex periodontal issues, our approach is both innovative and patient-centered. The combination of cutting-edge technology with a robust commitment to individualized care makes Tetrahealth an ideal choice for those seeking comprehensive periodontal treatment. Don't let gum recession impede your quality of life. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, helping you reclaim your smile and confidence. If you’re wondering, “can you fix a receding gum,” and are seeking specialized care, consider consulting with Dr. Alex Volchonok for an advanced, biologic approach that targets both periodontal issues and overall wellness. Are you ready to restore your smile at our skilled and trusted dental practice? Don't wait to get the smile of your dreams with us. Get in contact with our doctor, Dr. James and our exceptional team at our practice to schedule an appointment today !
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