What is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic Dentistry is an integration of natural health philosophies with orthodox medicine and dentistry, to obtain optimum balance and long term health.
How does it differ from "normal" dentistry?
Holistic Dentistry always considers your overall health as a key consideration to feeling & looking your best. All aspects of general and cosmetic dentistry are provided including a hygienist. Dental procedures are conducted using the most advanced techniques with safe, biocompatible materials for “a more natural reason to smile”.
Is Holistic Dentistry more expensive?
Your Holistic Dentist will likely spend more time with you than most orthodox dentists, because they must gain a complete awareness of your past health history to correctly interpret your current dental needs. A comprehensive treatment plan may require additional costs for specialised testing or nutritional supplements, however the dental aspect of such treatments is comparable to any standard dentist. Each case is unique, and you should ask your Holistic Dentist to consider your specific needs.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry offered?
Holistic dentistry always includes your overall health as a key consideration to looking your best. Using the latest technologies and materials your holistic dentist will provide a series of structural / cosmetic treatments to improve all condition and give you even more reason to smile.
Do Holistic Dentists follow a protocol?
Holistic dental practitioners aim to follow protocols for safe dentistry set out by IAOMAT (International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology). This standard assures you that your health and safety are paramount during all treatments.
What are some issues to be aware of?
The Holistic Dental approach begins with the fundamental fact that your mouth is the entry point for your body’s nourishment and intake of air, and also the primary stage of digestion. In their quest for optimal health, Holistic Practitioners have identified the following five key areas which must be addressed:
1. NUTRITION
It is widely accepted that the early signs of many illnesses are indicated by a state of change in the mouth. Nutritional medicine is used in a preventive manner to positively influence general health, and patients are encouraged to become actively involved in their health and well-being.
2 TOXIC MATERIALS
Research indicates that exposure to heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury are detrimental to our health. Heavy metals contribute to what is termed “oxidative stress”, and this process produces free-radicals which inhibit our natural ability to heal and remain youthful. Silver amalgam fillings are comprised of a 50% base of mercury, so special procedures for their removal (where indicated ) is central to the Holistic Dentistry code of dental practice. Ask your Holistic Dentist to provide detailed information about the safety procedures used.
3 ORAL HYGIENE
Hygiene requires more than just brushing your teeth. Holistic Dentistry considers dental hygiene an essential element of progressive holistic practice. Qualified with a university degree, the hygienist works closely with the dentist and patient to achieve and maintain clean, healthy teeth and gums, with special attention to any areas of chronic inflammation and infection caused by harmful bacteria. In addition to nutritional counseling, Holistic Dentistry also recommends fluoride-free toothpaste and mouthwashes to reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
4 ORAL INFECTIONS
Holistic Dentistry treats any oral infection seriously, as the blood supply to the mouth is that which supplies the whole body, and can significant effect your general health. In the case of Root Canal Therapy, a detailed consultation with the dentist provides you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about treatments using Holistic principals.
5 STRESS
Holistic dentistry is acutely aware of the damaging effects of stress due to emotional states, physical conditions, oxidative processes, and muscular head/neck strain on your teeth. Holistic Dentistry acknowledges that individual jaw structure and teeth placement can also contribute to muscular imbalances, headaches, migraines and chronic neck pain. Holistic Dentistry recommends nutritional medicine in conjunction with oral adjustments and mouth-guards to reduce further damage to the teeth, which in a majority of cases also relieves pain