Episode 16

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Published on:

3rd Nov 2025

16: The Next Frontier in Oral Care – Aging, Microbiomes & Circadian Rhythms with Dr. Rob & Tami

What happens when top minds in oral biology come together for a deep dive into learning, gum health, and the microbiome?

In this episode of Dental Formulator’s Playbook, Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey and co-host Tami recap key insights from the 82nd Annual American Institute of Oral Biology Meeting in Palm Springs. From gum recession and age-related microbiome shifts to the future of targeted probiotics, this discussion offers a high-level synthesis of emerging science—with practical takeaways for formulators, brands, and clinicians.

Whether you're developing oral-care products, exploring new marketing strategies, or simply curious about what's next in dental science, this is a must-listen.

 🔥 Highlights ↠

🧪 Learning & Product Strategy

  • Research shows that spaced repetition and quality sleep enhance memory and long-term learning.
  • Short, focused R&D sprints (versus prolonged marathons) may yield deeper formulation insights and faster innovation.

🦷 Gum Recession: Surprising Findings

  • Upper gum tissue (maxilla) is easier to repair than lower gum tissue (mandible).
  • Gum recession can, in some cases, reverse naturally—no grafting required.
  • Adults in orthodontic treatment (braces) have an increased risk for gum recession, while teens with orthodontia don’t have an increased risk.
  • Men experience higher rates of gum recession than women—a promising opportunity for male-targeted gum-health products.

🧬 Circadian Clocks & the Oral Microbiome

  • The human clock and the microbiome clock must stay synchronized for optimal health.
  • Oral probiotics may work best before bedtime, when saliva flow slows.
  • Timing matters: aligning delivery with circadian rhythms can amplify efficacy.

🧓 Another Variable – Aging Microbiomes

  • By age 65+, both men and women undergo significant microbiome shifts that influence oral and systemic health.
  • This represents a functional “third phase” of biology, creating formulation needs rarely addressed in current oral-care markets.
  • Probiotics tailored for older adults could mark the next major innovation frontier.

📈 Formulation & Marketing Takeaways

  • Leverage microbiome research to support product claims and optimize timing.
  • Customize formulations by age, gender, and circadian biology for stronger market differentiation.
  • Explore new delivery formats—serums, lozenges, sprays—that align with daily biological cycles.

 🧠 Key Takeaways

  • Product performance depends not only on what’s inside, but when and how it’s delivered.
  • Gum-recession dynamics vary by behavior, age, gender, and orthodontic status—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
  • The future of oral care is personalized, evidence-driven, and synchronized with biological rhythms.

📲 Connect with Dr. Rob (Robert L. Karlinsey, PhD)

 🌐 Website: customdentalformulations.com

 📄 Research Profile: Robert Karlinsey on ResearchGate

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About the Podcast

Dental Formulator's Playbook
The Dental Formulator’s Playbook is where science meets strategy in the world of oral health innovation. Hosted by Dr. Rob Karlinsey, a seasoned dental researcher and independent formulator, this podcast is your behind-the-scenes pass to what really goes into creating cutting-edge dental products.

Whether you're a dentist, a dental brand, or just someone curious about how toothpaste, rinses, and other oral care products are developed, you'll find practical insights and real-world takeaways in every episode. Dr. Karlinsey keeps it straightforward and engaging—no fluff, just clear, thoughtful explanations based on years of experience in the lab and the industry.

This show is all about helping dental professionals and product developers think differently, make better decisions, and stay ahead of the curve. If you care about science, results, and doing things the right way, you're in the right place.

About your host

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Robert Karlinsey

Dr. Robert L. Karlinsey is a scientist and formulator with almost 20 years’ experience in dental research. He earned a BS in Physics (University of Scranton) and PhD in Chemical Physics (Indiana University), with postdoctoral work in physical chemistry (Indiana University). As a visiting assistant research professor at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, his research led to an impactful encounter with Dr. George Stookey, and shortly thereafter, the formation of Indiana Nanotech, LLC (now known as Custom Dental Formulations, LLC), of which he spearheaded all research and small-scale manufacturing efforts. Dr. Karlinsey is the inventor of Nanotech’s functionalized tricalcium phosphate systems, which continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales for a major dental manufacturer. As Principal Investigator, his work has received significant funding through Federal (National Institutes of Health), State (Indiana and Texas), and industry grants and contracts. His research in patented calcium phosphate technologies continue to help generate over $100MM in global product sales. Previously, Dr. Karlinsey has served as Chief Scientific Officer at Therametric Technologies, Inc, and adjunct professor of chemistry at the University of Indianapolis.

Dr. Karlinsey addresses clients’ needs in preventive and cosmetic dentistry, including fluoride- and fluoride-free remineralization, antiplaque/gum health, whitening systems, and more. He is actively involved in clinical and laboratory research designs and performance-backed, customized oral care formulation solutions. And, whenever possible, he favors natural, nature-derived, and/or sustainably sourced ingredients