Dr. Gustavo Zambrano Garcia Periodoncia

09/07/2026

04/01/2026

01/12/2025

Metformin, a widely prescribed drug for type 2 diabetes, has been trusted for over 60 years to regulate blood sugar levels. But scientists are now uncovering something unexpected—metformin appears to influence the brain as well.

New studies suggest that this humble medication may support cognitive health by reducing inflammation and improving memory-related processes in the brain. Research published in journals like Aging Cell and Nature Communications found that metformin may activate AMPK, a cellular energy sensor that not only helps manage insulin but also supports brain plasticity and repair.

Animal studies have shown that metformin may enhance the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus, the area involved in memory. In some human observational studies, long-term metformin users showed lower rates of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease risk—although more research is still needed to confirm these effects in clinical trials.

Some researchers are even exploring metformin’s potential as an anti-aging therapy because of its broader impact on inflammation, cellular repair, and mitochondrial function. That said, it’s not a brain drug and shouldn’t be taken for that purpose unless prescribed.

The discovery that a decades-old diabetes medication could influence brain function highlights how much we’re still learning about the interconnectedness of the body. It also opens the door to repurposing existing drugs for new therapies.

What was once only known as a blood sugar stabilizer may now be part of a bigger conversation around brain health and longevity.

23/11/2025

Ever wondered why a toothache can sometimes turn into a headache?

The answer lies in the trigeminal nerve, one of the largest and most complex nerves in the head. This nerve carries sensory signals from the face, including your teeth, jaw, and gums, straight to the brain. When a tooth is inflamed or infected, it can overstimulate the trigeminal nerve, which may then trigger pain signals that spread to the head, causing a headache.

Dental issues like cavities, abscesses, or gum disease can all irritate this nerve, which explains why dental pain often radiates beyond the mouth. To manage the pain effectively, treating the underlying dental source is essential, not just the headache. In some cases, dentists and neurologists collaborate to ease symptoms by addressing both the oral infection and the nerve pathways involved.

This trigeminal connection also shows how closely oral health is linked with overall health. Routine dental check-ups, early treatment of tooth decay, and strong oral hygiene habits can prevent small problems from developing into severe, nerve-driven headaches.

So if a toothache starts spreading into your head, it is not random—it is your trigeminal nerve signalling a deeper issue. Protecting your oral health may help prevent days of unnecessary headache and discomfort.

🔹 Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional dental advice.

10/11/2025

A historic decision has been made in Geneva.
More than 150 countries, under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, have agreed to completely phase out mercury-based dental amalgam by 2034 — a landmark step in global health and environmental protection.

Mercury, once a mainstay of dental restorations for over 175 years, is now officially recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern — toxic to the nervous, immune, and renal systems, and a pollutant that persists in nature.

The agreement sets a science-based, time-bound goal to eliminate mercury in dentistry, replacing it with safer, modern alternatives such as composite resins, glass ionomers, and ceramic restorations. It marks a decisive shift toward mercury-free oral care and a safer, more sustainable dental future.

While some nations pushed for an earlier 2030 ban, consensus was reached for 2034 — balancing global access, affordability, and readiness of alternatives. The move follows growing international bans on mercury in batteries, cosmetics, and medical devices.