• Biological/holistic 

• Alternative dentistry 
• Natural dentistry 
• Unconventional dentistry 
• Biocompatible dentistry 

• Progressive dentistry 
• Integrative dentistry 

This type of dentistry approaches oral care from a holistic perspective.  It considers how oral health affects the whole body, and vice versa. 

Therefore, holistic dentistry treats oral problems by focusing on all aspects of health.  

This includes your physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

The simplest definition of a holistic dentist is a dentist who seeks alternatives to traditional dental procedures that use materials that could be potentially harmful to the rest of the body.  

These procedures can be mercury-based amalgam fillings, formaldehyde-based root canals, and fluoride – all of which are noted to be safe by the American Dental Association (ADA). But it is worth noting that many traditional dentists also avoid these materials, and some holistic dentists still use them. So, making the distinction of holistic dentist by procedures and materials doesn’t always work. 

According to The Center For Natural Dentistry, a holistic dental office in California, holistic dentists “are dentists who perform dentistry that is good for the body as well as the teeth and gums.” All dentists are concerned with the overall and oral health of their patients. Traditional dentists and holistic dentists are both committed to treating the underlying issues that cause problems in the mouth and ensuring dental treatments don’t have adverse effects on overall health.  

The Holistic dentist makes their priority caring for the mouth, body, and mind through their care. 

The philosophy of holistic dentists often leads to the use of alternative dental procedures and materials that distinguish the work a holistic dentist does from that of a traditional dentist.