Holistic Dentistry – What is it?

Holistic Dentistry, also known as environmental or biologic dentistry, is known for providing patients with dental care that has a positive effect on their entire body as a whole.

Holistic dentistry is grounded on the belief that teeth have as much of a health effect on your body as other major organs, such as the heart or liver and, therefore, should be treated equally.

The primary goal of holistic dentistry is to treat your mouth while working in harmony with the entire body.

Holistic Dentistry is important because it takes your overall health into consideration.  All your dental treatment decisions are made based on how they will affect your body as a whole.

Patient-specific treatment recommendations may differ from person to person because no two people are exactly the same.  But the general holistic approach to your health, one that comes from ensuring what we do benefits your entire well-being, can provide all our patients with a more thorough understanding of how your mouth relates to your entire body and, as a result, what happens in your mouth impacts your overall health.

Holistic Dentistry and regular dentistry may have many things in common, but there are some key differences.  One of the most common examples is the topic of mercury fillings.  Holistic dentists do NOT use mercury fillings and frequently recommend the removal of any existing mercury fillings when already present.  Mercury has been linked to cancer, autoimmune diseases and many other adverse reactions.

Another common example is the use of chloroform in a regular dental office to clean root canals during root canal therapy.  Chloroform can cause depression of the nervous system along with kidney and liver failure.  A holistic dentist refrains from using chloroform in their office.

A more subtle example of holistic dentistry is the discussion about what type of toothpaste to use.  There are many natural toothpastes now available and these can replace your current choice of toothpaste.  Ask your holistic dentist for advice on what toothpaste she recommends.

Your holistic dentist will often take into account any supplements you may be taking and how to work with you to optimize your overall health and well-being.  We can also discuss and recommend foods and supplements that can help you reach your goals of achieving a more holistic, natural, healthy lifestyle.  If you want a holistic approach to your dentistry for you and your family, let us know and we can discuss your options.