In this lively episode of The DBT Podcast, host Dr. Neel Shah welcomes Dr. Keyur Shah, DDS, for an engaging and informative conversation about oral health, dental myths, and how orthodontics contributes to overall wellness.

Dr. Shah is an unusually talented and gentle orthodontist based in Matteson, Illinois, where he provides comprehensive orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Dr. Shah graduated valedictorian from the University of Toronto’s dental school before completing his residency at Loyola University Medical Center. He went on to earn a master’s degree in orthodontics from the University of Manitoba, where he completed his orthodontic specialty training.

Dr. Shah stays on the leading edge of his field, maintaining active membership in numerous professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Illinois Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, Illinois Society of Orthodontists, and the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists. When he’s not transforming smiles, he enjoys spending time with his wife, a native Chicagoan, and cheering on his favorite teams—especially the Chicago Bears.

Together, Dr. Neel and Dr. Keyur dive into topics like fluoride, flossing, braces, oral cancer screenings, and the myths that keep people from embracing good dental care—all with data, humor, and a healthy dose of friendly Bears/Lions football banter.

Episode Highlights

(1:08) Neel teases Keyur about the latest Chicago Bears game.

(2:25) Why so many people fear the dentist—and when we realize how vital dental care is to our health.

(4:35) The importance of regular cleanings for long-term oral health.

(6:00) Dr. Shah explains fluoridation—its benefits and misconceptions.

(8:00) How heredity and lifestyle contribute to gum disease.

(9:50) The value of daily hygiene and why oral cancer screenings can save lives.

(12:50) Flossing and Waterpicks

(13:20) When parents should schedule a child’s first dental appointment.

(16:15) The role of braces in oral health—and why everyone is their own dentist.

(22:00) Braces at 90? You’ll want to hear this story.

(24:10) From ancient tools to modern tech: the evolution of orthodontics.

(26:10) Common myths about dentistry—and what the science says.

(31:05) A Bears season prediction that might need some flossing of its own.

(33:08) Wrapping up with a promise to always “keep it real” with data and science.

The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for questions about your health. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. Neither the host, the guests, nor Flint Rock LLC assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

Episode Highlights:

- The importance of understanding both innate and adaptive immunity

How allergies were first recognized and how far treatment has come

Breakthrough medications that are transforming care for allergic patients

- What causes immune deficiencies and how they can be treated

- The myths and misinformation surrounding immune “boosting

- Which vitamins and supplements actually have science behind them

- Everyday changes you can make at home to reduce allergens

- How stress, sleep, and social connection all impact immunity

- The need for trusted medical guidance and evidence-based information

(:40) A friendly start as Drs. Shah and Patel talk about football—especially the Chicago Bears.
(3:50) A look into the history of allergy and immunology as a field of study.
(5:40) Explaining immunoglobulins, innate immunity, and adaptive immunity—how our bodies recognize and fight threats.
(8:50) How allergies are discovered, what they really are, and how modern medicine treats them.
(13:00) A discussion of new medicines available today to help those with allergies or immune deficiencies.
(14:15) How and why people become immuno-deficient, and what that means for their health.
(19:34) The most common pieces of misinformation Dr. Patel encounters about immunity.
(25:57) Vitamins and supplements—especially vitamin C—and whether they truly boost immunity.
(28:53) Practical advice on what you can do around your home to help with allergies.
(33:02) Everyday habits that might actually harm your immune system.
(34:43) The effects of stress and socialization on immunity and overall health.
(37:52) Closing thoughts from Dr. Patel.

The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for questions about your health. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. Neither the host, the guests, nor Flint Rock LLC assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

Episode Highlights:

· Why vaccines are essential and how they protect children

· Discussing misinformation about autism, preservatives, and vaccine ingredients

· Recommendations for screen time, phones, and social media use in kids

· Nutrition tips including colorful eating and daily fruit/vegetable goals

· Strategies to help kids manage stress and build healthy routines

· Safe approaches to exercise and strength training

· The importance of keeping communication open with your pediatrician

(:45) Meet Dr. Zoy Patouhas!

(1:50) Dr. Patouhas talks about pediatric “anticipatory medicine”, explains what it is, why it’s important and how it works. Also, why vaccines are important and how they work…protection without having to fight a disease. And, what’s natural immunity?

(8:24) What does the data show about the risk for getting vaccines? And what about Autism and vaccinations?

(13:20) What’s the number one item of misinformation about vaccinations? Then, what about preservatives? What about aluminum content?

(16:30) and…what about formaldehyde content?

(18:43) Dr. Zoy talks about measles, how it changes the brain chemistry and its long-term effects.

(20:19) What’s “herd immunity” and why’s it important to the population?

(23:41) Does complete isolation prevent you from getting an illness?

(24:45) When should kids get phones, how much screen time is too much, and other questions are addressed by Dr. Zoy…and she provides recommendations. For example – less than 2 hours of screen time per day…parents set the example!

(29:21) What about nutrition and processed foods? Look for all the colors of the rainbow! And 5-6 fruits and veggies per day.

(32:22) Dr. Zoy addresses stress in kids and makes recommendations to address this. Remember, EVERY age experience stress. Decrease screen time, healthy diet, water, fresh air, hugs (tactile experiences) and 5-6 pictures that bring happiness to share right before lights out.

(35:34) At what age is it OK for kids to start lifting weights? Dr. Zoy discusses the options.

(38:00) And now…of course, Dr. Neel and Dr. Zoy discuss football and specifically the Detroit Tigers!

(40:17) Will the Lions win the division this year?!

(40:40) What final words does Dr. Zoy want to share? “Keep the dialog open with your pediatrician”!

(42:55) What’s the major cause of childhood death in the US?

The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for questions about your health. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. Neither the host, the guests, nor Flint Rock LLC assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast.