Lately, there has been a growing interest in holistic dentistry and exactly what it means to go to a holistic dentist. According to the Holistic Dental Association, this concept involves thinking about how dental care is connected to every aspect of a person’s well being – not just physical, but mental and spiritual as well.
The Center for Natural Dentistry states that in order to provide holistic care, a dentist needs to use materials in their practice that can be safe and beneficial to the entire body, not just the mouth. The center’s official website says that the term “holistic” relates not to the techniques that the dentist uses, but the concept of integrating dentistry into overall health and wellness. In fact, the term “holistic” comes from the word “wholistic” meaning “the whole.”
The site states that many traditional dentists use holistic practices, and vice-versa. So if you’re interested in receiving the kind of care that is described as being part of the holistic line of treatment, you may be able to find it from a number of different dental professionals.
Of course, there are some differences between holistic and traditional dental practices that many dentists have opposing views on. For example, while the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration report that the levels of mercury in traditional dental fillings are safe, many holistic dentists believe otherwise.
“Holistic dentists understand that mercury is a toxin, and even small amounts are too great a risk to the body and your overall health. While amalgam fillings last longer than composites, they put extreme pressure on the tooth and often cause weakening of the tooth, meaning that the filling may outlast the tooth it was placed in,” according to The Center for Natural Dentistry.
According to TheNaturalGuide.com, another thing that many holistic and traditional dentists differ on is whether to perform root canals. Many holistic practitioners believe that this procedure is ineffective and leaves bacterial toxins present in the teeth that could pose a threat to an individual’s overall health. Instead, they offer alternatives to this process, such as tooth extractions.
Of course, just like with traditional dentists, there are many different types of holistic dental practitioners who believe in and practice varying techniques. The bottom line is that everyone should find the dentist that works for them, which may require going to a few different places before you find the right fit.
Would you consider going to a holistic dentist?