There is nothing quite like a warm and welcoming smile – it can be one of your greatest assets. And this is how you will want to keep it. Therefore for many people, turning to their cosmetic dentist is the surest way to protect their investment, by ensuring that their teeth stay white, straight and free from decay.
But creating healthy teeth is only one facet of dentistry. Dentistry also involves protecting the health of the entire body. In reality a surprisingly large number of ailments have as their origin one or another dental problem.
What is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic dentists are sometimes also known by the alternative names of biological dentists or natural dentists. As with other holistic medical practitioners, when treating a patient they will consider the whole person, including the mind, spirit and lifestyle, in addition to their body. And when developing a treatment program, they will endeavor to enhance the patient’s overall health and well-being, not just the health of their teeth. In doing this they will pay particular attention to the state of the immune system.
A biological dentist will also avoid the use of potentially dangerous x-rays, by the use of either low emission equipment or alternative means of diagnosis. They will also fill cavities by using non-toxic materials such as resins rather than employ a mercury amalgam, and frequently provide a service of removing old amalgam fillings and detoxification of any remaining mercury deposits.
Holistic Dentistry and Amalgam Fillings
There is a body of evidence to suggest that mercury amalgam fillings, sometimes known as silver fillings, pose a health risk for all, but particularly those who are chemically sensitive. Studies have shown that such a low-level exposure to mercury can affect kidney function and even brain function, resulting in a cellular degeneration similar to that found in sufferers from Alzheimer’s disease.
For these reasons biological dentists are generally opposed to using amalgam fillings, and should you wish to have your old fillings removed and replaced, it is preferable that you find a dentist who can assess the compatibility of other materials and also help you with the process of mercury detoxification.
Holistic Dentistry and Fluoride
Most holistic dentists are very much opposed to the ingestion of fluoride by the body, as for example found in many toothpastes and drinking water. In fact the toxic properties of fluoride have been known for some time. Former studies carried out in support of the incorporation of fluoride in water supplies have since been found to be flawed, and more recent surveys have found little health benefit.
Holistic dentists are important participants in complementary health care and often work in conjunction with other holistic health care practitioners. It is important that you are aware of your options when choosing a dentist and there is an ever growing number of holistic dental practitioners. When selecting a dentist, think also about asking questions involving your own general state of health and on the dentist’s attitude towards the various subjects discussed in this article. They will surely be more than happy to oblige.
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