Common myths debunked about holistic dentistry.
Myth: Holistic dentistry is pseudoscientific.
Fact: According to the European Journal of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, excellent scientific evidence is associated with the therapies used in holistic dentistry. These therapies are based on six fundamental principles:
Biochemical balance: This principle focuses on the relationship between the body's chemistry and dental health. Holistic dentists believe that imbalances in the body's chemistry can lead to dental problems, and they use a variety of techniques to restore balance, such as nutritional counseling, detoxification, and the use of natural supplements.
Biocompatibility: This principle focuses on the compatibility of dental materials with the body. Holistic dentists believe that some dental materials, such as mercury fillings, can be harmful to the body, and they use alternative materials, such as porcelain, that they believe are more compatible with the body.
Biomechanics: This principle focuses on the mechanics of the teeth and jaws. Holistic dentists believe that problems with the way the teeth and jaws function can lead to dental problems, and they use a variety of techniques to correct these problems, such as orthodontics, TMJ therapy, and craniosacral therapy.
Bioesthetics: This principle focuses on the aesthetics of the teeth and smile. Holistic dentists believe that a beautiful smile is important for overall health and well-being, and they use a variety of techniques to improve the appearance of the teeth, such as whitening, veneers, and crowns.
Bioethical care: This principle focuses on the ethical treatment of patients. Holistic dentists believe that patients should be treated with respect and autonomy and be fully informed about their treatment options.
Bioenergetics: This principle focuses on the body's energy field. Holistic dentists believe that imbalances in the body's energy field can lead to dental problems, and they use a variety of techniques to balance the energy field, such as acupuncture, massage, and visualization.
Myth: Holistic dentists do not use diagnostic radiographs.
Fact: Holistic dentists use a variety of diagnostic tools, including digital x-rays, cone beam CT, and CBCT imagery. These tools allow holistic dentists to create a more accurate treatment plan and diagnose conditions such as sleep apnea and TMJ dysfunction. Holistic dentists use lower doses of radiation than traditional dentists, and they may also use non-radiation diagnostic tools, such as the Canary System cavity detection system.
Myth: Holistic dentists do not provide restorative care.
Fact: Holistic dentists provide a variety of restorative care options, including mercury-free fillings, ozone therapy, fluoride-free, BPA-free materials, and natural alternatives to local sedation. Holistic dentists believe that it is important to restore natural tooth structure whenever possible, and they use biomimetic materials that mimic the tooth's natural composition.
What should patients expect from a holistic dentist?
Mercury-free restoration: Holistic dentists use mercury-free fillings, such as composite resin or porcelain. These fillings are more biocompatible than mercury fillings and are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Ozone therapy: Ozone therapy is a natural treatment that uses ozone gas to disinfect dental cavities. Ozone gas is a powerful oxidizer that can kill bacteria and other microorganisms.
Fluoride-free, BPA-free materials: Holistic dentists use fluoride-free materials in their dental procedures. Fluoride is a mineral that can strengthen teeth but can also be harmful to the body in high doses. BPA is a chemical that has been linked to several health problems, including cancer and reproductive problems.
Use of non-radiation cavity detection devices: Holistic dentists may use non-radiation cavity detection devices, such as the Canary System cavity detection system. These devices use light or sound waves to detect cavities without exposing patients to radiation.
Natural alternative to local sedation: Holistic dentists may offer natural alternatives to local sedation, such as NuCalm, an anti-anxiety system that uses neuro psychobiology and neuro bioinformatics to mimic the body's natural brain wave function to promote relaxation.
Holistic dentistry is growing, and increasing scientific evidence supports its effectiveness. If you are looking for a dentist who takes a holistic approach to oral health, request an appointment with Dr. Jonson.