Have you noticed that we’re becoming increasingly health-conscious as a nation in recent years?
Healthy foods, organic produce, and better habits are all on the rise, compared to years past. 👏
And this means increased demand for better healthcare (including dentistry!).
We’re starting to understand that we can’t simply treat one isolated part of the body, without addressing other systems & components.
Which is why keeping medical & dental completely separate makes very little sense!
But biological dentists are shaking things up (for the better), because they believe whole-heartedly in the connection between oral health & overall health.
So, How Are Oral Health and Overall Health Related?
There are many demonstrations of this connection, but gum disease (or periodontal disease) is a prime example.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of chronic inflammation in the body. And nearly half of adults in the U.S. have some level of gum disease.
Pretty crazy, right?
When left untreated, long-term inflammation in the mouth can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, heart attacks, diabetes, and even cancer.
We also know that by eating certain foods and adopting certain lifestyle habits, you can begin to gain control over systemic inflammation and disease, including in the mouth.
This is why it’s so important that your doctors, whether natural, medical, or dental, understand the connection between your mouth & body, and treat the whole person – not just the symptoms.
Okay, But… What Exactly is Biological Dentistry?
You’ve probably already guessed correctly, but biological dentistry (also referred to as holistic dentistry) is concerned with not only the health of your teeth, but your whole body.
Some people like to think of it as alternative medicine in the field of dentistry.
A biological dentist understands the importance and significant impact oral health has on the rest of the body, and vice versa.
They then incorporate this understanding by using specific treatment approaches in their practices.
What is the Difference Between Biological Dentistry and Traditional Dentistry?
Both biological and traditional dentists attend dental school and offer similar services, such as regular cleanings and filling cavities.
The primary difference is in their approach.
What it really comes down to is addressing the root cause of disharmony within the mouth – biological dentists understand the connection whereas traditional dentists are more often focused on just treating the symptoms.
Because of this holistic approach (much like a functional & naturopathic medicine), biological dentists also try to use modalities that cause no harm.
What does this look like in reality?
Let’s dive into 3 key holistic methods that set biological dentists apart:
- Biocompatibility Testing
- Fluoride-free Offices
- Mercury-free Treatments
Biological Dentists Offer Biocompatibility Testing
Biocompatibility testing determines the risk of toxicity of a material and its potential to cause a reaction in an individual patient.
In other words, biological dentists test different dental materials, which may be used for fillings, veneers, and more, to ensure what they’re using is the safest option for each patient.
By testing materials in this way, it creates a customized experience for the patient, acknowledging that every person is uniquely different.
Wouldn’t you feel better knowing (rather than hoping) that what’s being placed in your mouth wouldn’t have any negative side effects on your overall health?
I sure would!
Biological Dentists Have Fluoride-Free Offices
Did you know that fluoride can actually cause harm to the brain?
Some even argue it’s a neurotoxin.
In one study which aimed to determine the effects of fluoride on children, it was found that fluoride consumption was highly correlated with a lower IQ. So sad.
And there’s more research to back this claim. In a study conducted in 2014, researchers found that ingesting fluoride poses serious dangers to our health and should not be used in dental offices, or anywhere for that matter.
Isn’t it crazy, then, that fluoride continues to be used in traditional dental offices today?
Biological dentists understand the potential dangers of fluoride, and that it isn’t required to prevent tooth decay. So they don’t use it. Simple as that.
Biological Dentists Use Mercury-Free Fillings
Mercury toxicity is associated with serious health problems, like autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, and more.
But still, many conventional dentists use mercury-based cavity fillings (also known as “amalgam fillings” or “silver fillings”)…
In 2008, the American Dental Association (ADA) announced that the use of mercury fillings was banned in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway.
Why?
Because these countries consider mercury to be a dangerous environmental toxin and potential health risk.
It’s clear this heavy metal concoction should be banned in every mouth and every dental office across the globe. But until then, a biological dentist is your best option for fillings that are safer and mercury-free.
Other Practices Unique to Biological Dentistry
The practices I listed above are key differentiators between biological and traditional dentistry. But there are even more reasons why choosing a biological dentist should be on the top of your list:
Emphasis on nutrition
Compared to conventional dentists, biological dentists spend more time educating their patients about the impacts of nutrition on overall health. They want you to have a sense of ownership over what happens in your mouth, and your body, so you can make better decisions.
Goodbye, root canals
Root canals, typically performed to remove deeply-rooted cavities or infections, are painful and challenging for the body to deal with.
And it’s no secret that they can also damage tooth structure.
Biological dentists rarely (if ever) recommend root canals, because they understand the impact that a root canal can have on the rest of the body. I won’t get into all the potential negative effects, but just know there are many. It’s not worth taking the risk of having a root canal when the risks for secondary complications are so high.
Instead, biological dentists prefer tooth extractions – a much less invasive treatment.
Ozone therapy
Biological dentists also love to use ozone therapy, which is a gentle and effective way to clean unwanted bacteria from the mouth, ultimately healing & protecting your teeth and gums.
A few of the primary benefits include:
- fighting tooth decay
- reduces gum disease
- is non-invasive (no pain or discomfort)
- boosts the immune system
- improves blood circulation in the gums
Plus, it’s totally natural and non-toxic.
What could be better than that?!
A Whole-Body Approach to Dentistry & Health
The mouth is the mirror that reflects the health of the body. Scientists & health professionals who’ve studied oral health will 100% agree on that.
As a holistic health expert myself, I understand and have a deep appreciation for this type of dentistry.
If you’re looking for a good biological dentist close by, feel free to reach out to me. I’d be more than happy to point you in the right direction!
