Holistic Dentistry is an overall philosophy relevant to teeth and mouth hygiene that appreciates the significance of biologic dentistry of overall health.
Simply, the holistic dentistry approach believes that teeth have a strong connection with the rest of the body, which refers to the mouth and body connection. Meaning, a dentist gathers important information on the overall health of the body to determine the best approach for whole-body health and not exclusively dental health.
To this effect, holistic dentists do not carry out invasive procedures right away as they would apply natural remedial methods first to address dental issues. Holistic dentistry highlights the importance of nutrition as an utmost defense against dental distress.
Through the years, traditional dentistry evolved to a holistic approach as dentists would discover the mouth-body connection. As such dentists do not limit the connection of teeth to the gums, but also to the face, head, neck, and entire body.
As a result, holistic dentistry does not use harmful dental appliances, cleaning materials, and dental hygiene products that use toxic chemicals like mercury amalgam fillings, sealants with Bisphenol A (BPA), and fluoride.
Mercury exposure will surely put your body at risk. Even a small leak of mercury is harmful because it is toxic. As such, mercury tooth filling is not recommended anymore and that being said, holistic dentists apply fillings that match the substance of the tooth to protect it.
BPA is a chemical ingredient found in plastic materials which is frequently used as dental sealants. The issue with BPA is its attribute to stimulate estrogen, which is fatal against the body’s hormonal balance. In short, holistic dentists avoid BPA.
Fluoride is another chemical that was widely used to strengthen teeth. Though deemed harmless, it is toxic when taken in excessive amounts.
Dentists do not even recommend root canal therapy to save a tooth because the process of sterilization of the canal requires chemicals to hinder the growth of bacteria. This is the main reason why infection that causes the growth of cancer cells and other degenerative diseases usually comes from the canal.
In summary, holistic dentists believe what goes into a mouth affects the entire body.
The difference between traditional and holistic dentistry lies in the philosophical facts that traditional dentistry treats symptoms in the teeth and gums and attempts to prevent the recurrence of the problem while holistic dentistry treats the underlying problem that caused the symptoms and ensures the elimination of the pertinent problem and its recurrence.
Ask your dentist about procedure details to ensure you’re in good hands. Still worried about your level of dental care? Contact Dr. Sonia Olivares by iSmile for cosmetic and restorative needs.
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