The Whole Health Podcast

Oral Health as Whole Health: Insights from Dr. Kim Kutsch - Ep 24

Kelly J. Blodgett DMD, NMD, IBDM & Megan Barnett MS, CNS

Oral Health as Whole Health: Insights from Dr. Kim Kutsch - Ep 24

In this episode of The Whole Health Podcast, hosts Dr. Kelly Blodgett, DMD, NMD, IBDM, and Megan Barnett, MS, CNS, sit down with Dr. V. Kim Kutsch, CEO of Oral BioTech and creator of CariFree. A dentist, inventor, and educator with over 40 years of clinical practice, Dr. Kutsch has pioneered innovations in minimally invasive dentistry, lasers, and caries risk assessment—holding 17 patents and shaping modern approaches to oral health. He shares how a lifetime of curiosity led him to reframe cavities as a biofilm disease, pushing dentistry beyond “drill and fill” toward prevention and individualized care. Listeners will hear insights on the links between oral health and whole-body wellness, the role of diet, medications, and genetics in decay, and practical strategies for lasting oral balance. Dr. Kutsch also reflects on the challenges and joys of innovation, mentorship, and creating products that make a real difference in patients’ lives.

-Dr. V. Kim Kutsch’s Journey and Innovations
 With over 40 years in dentistry, Dr. Kutsch has been a pioneer in lasers, minimally invasive dentistry, and product development. He shares how curiosity and persistence shaped his career, leading to multiple patents, companies, and global lectures.

-Understanding and Preventing Tooth Decay
 Dr. Kutsch discusses the complex factors that drive cavities—saliva, diet, genetics, medications, and lifestyle—and why traditional “drill and fill” approaches fall short. He emphasizes risk assessment, biofilm science, and personalized strategies to help patients become decay-free for life.

-Oral Health and Whole-Body Wellness
 Listeners will learn how oral microbes are linked to heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s, and even depression. Dr. Kutsch explains how maintaining a balanced oral environment not only prevents decay but supports overall health and longevity.

To learn more about Megan Barnett’s clinic and practice, click below:
https://bioloungepdx.com

To learn more about Megan's organic soluble fiber blends, click below:
https://thinkflorasophy.com

Learn more about Dr. Kelly Blodgett's dental practice below:
https://www.blodgettdentalcare.com/

About The Whole Health Podcast:
Hosted by Dr. Kelly J. Blodgett, DMD, NMD, IBDM, and Megan Barnett, MS, CNS, this podcast is dedicated to advancing biological dentistry and integrative health. Join Kelly and Megan as they dive deep with experts and leaders across various disciplines to explore the connections between oral health, nutrition, and holistic human wellness.

🎧 Listen now: https://thewholehealthpodcast.buzzsprout.com/