Holistic dentistry is a natural form of dental care. More and more people are recognizing this practice as a healthier form of treating and preventing oral issues. Staying clear of chemicals can give oral solutions that involve the mind and body as well. Here are the things to consider in understanding holistic dentistry principles.
The philosophy
This type of dentistry does not use materials that may harm the body. Holistic dentistry involves the balanced mouth, body, and mind relationship. The main goal is to give patients conservative and preventive methods of care that combine with general healthcare. The whole body receives benefits while the gums and teeth get the proper care. Also known as integrative dentistry, holistic dentistry focuses on the different aspects of one’s health. A person’s spiritual, physical, and emotional health are important in this field.
The treatments
Traditional dentistry treats and prevents oral problems through methods proven by science. Brushing, flossing, and dental fillings are the common means to care for teeth. In holistic dentistry, treatments and therapies come in different variations. Here are some of them:
- Electroacupuncture
- Nutrition education
- Hypnosis
- Ayurveda
- Spiritual healing
- Homeopathy
- Herbology
- Aromatherapy
A traditional dental practitioner will talk about the importance of nutrition. This dentist will teach the patient about the right food and lifestyle choices that can improve dental health. A holistic dentist stresses the effect of nutrition on oral health. Holistic dentistry does not include root canal procedures. Dentists in this field do not believe that root canals are not good because of the chemicals and procedures involved.
The materials
Holistic dentistry uses natural or biocompatible materials. It does not consider traditional materials, including chemicals. The focus is on the way these substances impact the body’s health. What is good for the body is good for the mouth.
Holistic dentistry does not use mercury or amalgam fillings. Progressive dentists may suggest the removal of these metal fillings if the patient has them. A holistic dentist will perform biocompatibility tests on specific materials first. This test can determine if the materials are compatible with the immune system and the whole body. For cleaning the mouth, a holistic dentist will provide products that a traditional dentist will not recommend. Below are the common ones:
- Propolis
- Herbal tooth powder
- Composite fillings
- Neem toothpaste
Regarding fluoride
Regular dentists see fluoride as an important part of maintaining dental health. The patient may get them in the form of fluoridated water or toothpaste. Holistic dentistry has a different view of this element. Most practitioners do not agree with the use of fluoride. Only some do.
The facts
Many people see dentistry and medicine as different fields. This does not apply to holistic dentistry. This field is the practice of dental care that serves a patient’s whole body. This is one of the founding principles of holistic dentistry. A holistic dentist must look at the patient’s whole-body health before choosing the right oral treatment.
Prevention is a main focus of holistic dentistry as well. A holistic dentist uses biocompatible and non-toxic materials in less aggressive treatments. Removing metal fillings and replacing them with metal-free ones is a common practice. There is awareness of how toxic materials or oral infections affect a person’s general health. Holistic dentistry also encourages patients to use natural products to keep teeth and gums healthy.
Holistic dentistry is an organic way to achieve dental and general health
Some people want to achieve good dental health the natural way. Holistic dentistry sees the mouth as part of the whole body. That is why dental treatments and preventive measures are free of chemicals. Working with your holistic dentistry provider can help you achieve better oral and general health at the same time. This could be the dental practice that could meet your current health needs.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drericjohnson.com or call Dr. Eric Johnson at (949) 205-1139 for an appointment in our San Clemente office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Holistic Dentistry in San Clemente, CA.
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