Holistic dentistry is a type of complementary medicine that focuses on the impact of oral health on the rest of the body. It is also called alternative or natural dentistry. As opposed to traditional dentistry, holistic dentistry assesses the patient's overall health, including spiritual and emotional health.
Holistic dentistry is available at Brighton Periodontal & Implant Dental Group in Woodland Hills and the surrounding area. You cannot be in good overall health without being in good oral health. Call us today at (818) 703-7733 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Like traditional dentists, holistic dentists offer a broad range of services that varies from provider to provider. However, some of the most common holistic dental services include the following:
In any case, all holistic dentists focus on treating the patient's entire condition (not just their isolated dental conditions). It is the fundamental belief of holistic dentists that every aspect of a patient's health is interlinked with each other.
Contrary to popular belief, emotional and spiritual health can also contribute to overall health. As such, some holistic dentists may offer additional forms of therapy, such as aromatherapy, Ayurveda, electroacupuncture, herbology, homeopathy, hypnosis, nutrition education, and spiritual healing. If a practice does not offer these services, they may refer patients to an appropriate provider. Additionally, holistic dentists also conduct biocompatibility tests to determine which ingredients are the best, safest, and most natural ones possible for each patient's treatment plan.
It is required for holistic dentists to hold a degree to practice dental surgery or medical dentistry. Unlike traditional dentists, however, holistic dentists do not merely treat isolated conditions. Rather, they create customized treatment plans that consider all aspects of an individual's health. Doing so allows them to address any health issues at the root and identify any systemic diseases linked to oral health.
Traditional dentistry frequently uses materials that are incompatible with patients' biochemistry, while holistic dentistry utilizes biocompatible materials as much as possible. Some patients may benefit more from this than others. These patients include those with a history of the following:
Simply put, holistic dentists focus on treating the whole person. In contrast, traditional dentists focus on treating isolated dental problems. As with all other holistic practitioners, holistic dentists aim to identify the root cause of a disease through careful assessment of the individual's overall health. Just as no two patients are the same, neither are their healthcare needs. As such, holistic dentistry is a collaborative effort in which patients become active participants in their care.
Holistic dentists prioritize patient education, which allows patients to make informed decisions about their treatment. By working together with their patients, holistic dentists help set realistic health goals and devise strategies to achieve optimal health. Holistic dentists are also able to advise patients on alternative and complementary therapies (e.g., acupuncture). Our patients can rest easy knowing that we will carefully consider each component of their health when devising treatment, prevention, and care strategies.
Introducing foreign substances into the body is always a risk, as the body may reject the material. Some patients may also have allergies to the materials commonly used in traditional dental devices. Holistic dentists opt for non-toxic, biocompatible materials whenever possible, effectively avoiding these problems. As a result, patients are at a lesser risk of infection, inflammation, and anything else that may threaten patient safety and comfort.
To ensure that each patient is matched with the materials most well-suited for their needs and unique body chemistry, holistic dentists run frequent, FDA-approved biocompatibility tests that ensure maximum safety and efficacy. Most holistic dentists will also refrain from performing root canal procedures or installing mercury fillings to minimize any interaction with potentially toxic materials. Composite fillings are a popular alternative, however, and holistic dentists often have more natural recommendations for several at-home treatments as well.
Are you looking for a more personal approach to oral health? A holistic dentist may be right for you. Call us today at (818) 703-7733 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Is holistic dentistry for everyone?
Every healthcare decision should be weighed very carefully, including the choice to go to a holistic dentist. Though holistic dentistry can significantly improve many lives, certain populations may need to take extra precautions with the field. These populations include those with a history of chronic illness, severe dental infection, and tooth decay. Some medications may also interfere with holistic dental treatment, putting patients at higher risk of complications. Therefore, it is important to be totally honest about one's medical history before beginning a new holistic dental treatment plan.
Can holistic dentistry do anything for me that traditional dentistry cannot?
Yes. Whereas traditional dentistry focuses solely on the gums, jaws, teeth, and certain areas of the head and neck, holistic dentistry considers all aspects of one's health. As such, holistic dentists can identify a number of health issues not limited to just oral health.
How does diet affect dental health?
Diet has a significant impact on oral health. For example, a diet rich in refined foods and sugar can lead to excess bacteria growth in the mouth and demineralization. Plaque may accumulate as a result, destroying the teeth over time.
What is the difference between "mercury-free" and "mercury-safe"?
While mercury-free dental practices do not place any new mercury amalgam fillings, mercury-safe practices perform any necessary procedures involving mercury fillings while minimizing mercury exposure. Mercury-free dental practices also do not remove or replace mercury fillings.
What are composite fillings made of?
there are several types of composite fillings, but most are comprised of composite resin. This is a combination of natural-looking, non-metal materials that are chemically bonded, light-cured, and contain enough non-reactive metal oxides to render them visible on X-rays.
Brighton Periodontal & Implant Dental Group is located at
6325 Topanga Canyon Boulevard Suite 433
Woodland
Hills, CA
91367