These days, it seems like dental offices are a dime a dozen. If you are searching for a skilled, reliable, and compassionate doctor to care for your oral health, you have many options. You might choose a general dentist, a family dentist, a specialist, or even a holistic dentist. While the vast majority of dental professionals have their patients’ best interests at heart, holistic dentists are unique in several ways. Let’s talk about what a holistic dentist is and how you can benefit when you visit one.
What Is a Holistic Dentist?
Conventional and holistic dentists have a few points in common. Both must complete dental school, and both are required to comply with state regulations in order to maintain a valid license. Both can offer effective treatments, and both are interested in the science and art of dentistry.
Despite all of that common ground, though, there are some significant differences between holistic and conventional dentistry. A holistic dentist is focused on the head-to-toe wellness of their patients, rather than just on their oral health. This philosophy of care has a bearing on everything they do. It affects the techniques they use, the materials they employ, the advice they give, and more.
Why Visit a Holistic Dentist?
Here are some noteworthy benefits that you can expect to enjoy when you visit a holistic dentist:
Biocompatible Materials
Holistic dentists recognize that the materials used in restorative treatments can have a big impact on a patient’s overall wellness. For that reason, they never place silver amalgam fillings (silver amalgam contains high levels of mercury, a toxic substance). Instead, they use safer fillings materials, such as composite resin, which is known to work well with the human body and pose an extremely low risk of adverse side effects.
Advanced Technology
Holistic dentists aim to provide conservative treatment while still producing excellent outcomes. Therefore, they often invest in state-of-the-art technology. For example, they might perform mercury vapor testing to determine whether old silver amalgam fillings are threatening your health. They may also use advanced techniques to safely remove mercury from the mouth.
Other examples of advanced technology that you might find in a holistic dentist’s office include digital X-Rays, intraoral cameras, and devices that aid in the early detection of cavities.
It’s Not about Drilling and Filling
Conventional dentists sometimes take a “drill and fill” approach to treating dental problems. Holistic dentists are more conversative, often favoring gentler, more natural approaches. For example, they may have a strong focus on educating patients about their oral health so they can prevent cavities and reduce the need for invasive restorative procedures.
Is Holistic Dentistry Right for You?
Holistic dentistry is the right choice for people who want their oral healthcare to support their overall well-being. To learn more about this approach to dentistry, visit your local holistic professional. They will be happy to answer your questions.
Meet Dr. Keanna
Dr. George Keanna is an experienced holistic dentist in Albuquerque. He and the team at Natural Dental Services provide high-tech, compassionate care to our community. To learn more about us and how we may be able to support your oral and overall health, contact us at 505-292-8533.