Primal Health, co-founded by microbiologist Emily Stein, is on a mission to transform oral health with cutting-edge products designed to balance the mouth’s microbial community. The company, launched in 2017 in Minneapolis, focuses on harnessing the potential of oral microbes to improve overall health and reduce the risks of serious conditions like cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Stein’s journey began in 2009, during her post-doctoral fellowship in rheumatology and immunology at Stanford University. After her grandmother suffered a stroke linked to a tooth extraction, Stein collected microbes from her grandmother’s mouth to investigate how these microorganisms could contribute to health issues. Research indicates that there is an increased risk of stroke for up to four weeks following a tooth extraction, as this procedure can create an entry point for harmful microbes to enter the bloodstream.
Stein’s research led to the founding of Primal Therapies in 2012, focused on broader health implications before narrowing its focus to oral health with the establishment of Primal Health. The company aims to challenge traditional methods of disease management by focusing on the microbes in the mouth, potentially impacting a range of health issues including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
One of Primal Health’s flagship products is a fast-melt dental lozenge designed to combat dental dysbiosis—a condition marked by an imbalance of oral microbes, which can lead to gum disease. The company offers two varieties: Phossident (stylized as “pHossident”), which is intended to strengthen enamel, and Protektin (“PROtektin”), aimed at promoting the growth of beneficial microbes. Both products are flavored with mint and are based on Stein’s patented Selective Microbial Metabolism Regulation Technology (SMMRT).
The lozenges work by altering the way microbes metabolize nutrients. According to Stein, soluble fiber in the lozenges blocks harmful bacteria from accessing sugars and plaque-forming enzymes, effectively starving them. Prebiotics then support beneficial bacteria by enabling protein metabolism. Lindsey Campbell, Chief Commercial Officer, likened the process to placing harmful microbes on a “keto diet,” thus shifting their focus from carbohydrates to proteins without necessarily killing them.
In addition to human products, Primal Health has developed a pet-focused item called TEEF!’s Protektin water powder, which aims to enhance oral health for animals. It is important to note that the claims made about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Initially, Stein faced skepticism from dental professionals who feared that her innovations might disrupt traditional practices. Nevertheless, she emphasizes that the goal of Primal Therapies is to enhance dental care rather than replace it. With a small team of six employees, the company has maintained a focus on growth while keeping operations efficient.
In the past year, Primal Health’s lozenges and pet products experienced a remarkable 70% year-over-year sales growth. The company has primarily relied on word-of-mouth and limited marketing efforts. As Campbell noted, many clinicians, including dentists and veterinarians, are increasingly adopting the technology, and the company is exploring strategic partnerships within the long-term care and at-home care sectors.
Stein has reported steady organic growth, with the company expanding by around 20% quarter over quarter. Primal Health sells its products directly to consumers online, which accounts for 60% of sales, while 40% is generated through wholesale channels to dental and veterinary offices as well as retail outlets. The customer base is rapidly expanding, reflecting the growing interest in innovative approaches to oral health.
As Primal Health continues to develop its product line and explore new partnerships, the company aims to redefine oral health care and its broader implications for overall wellness.
