To differentiate holistic dentistry from the more common dental care, we have to define what holistic is.
From the Merriam Webster dictionary:
Holistic: relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts.
So, to be clear, holistic dentistry is the approach of dentistry that takes into account the individual’s overall health.
Instead of treating a particular symptom with traditional means – such as filling a cavity with amalgam or mercury fillings – the person’s long-term health and whole body are considered when determining treatment options.
Understanding this approach is very important to us at Dental Arts and Wellness. Instead of localized treatment of symptoms, we are interested in what causes the symptoms you may have, and focus on treatments that handle the symptom but also promote long-term health.
Focusing on biocompatible (not harmful to living tissue) materials, holistic dentists like Dr. Yamaguchi focus on minimizing exposure to toxins and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. This approach promotes optimal health and wellness for all patients, and the addressing of underlying causes is done to help prevent a long-term cycle of treatment.
So, what makes holistic dentistry different? A lot. It starts with looking at the more than what causes symptoms at the prevention and alternative treatment options and technological breakthroughs now available in modern dentistry.
What Sets Holistic Dentistry Apart from Traditional Dentistry
Let’s take a look at the dentistry we’re all used to. Think of the dentist you went to as a little kid. You sat down, you got your teeth cleaned or your cavity filled, and at the end, you got a lollipop. Nothing says “take care of your teeth” quite like a cherry-flavored DumDum.
Now, no one wants a cavity and no one likes it when we need to get dental treatment, but understanding the difference between a holistic dentist and Acme Dentistry can make all the difference in the world – especially if you don’t like needles.
The truth is, there’s nothing wrong with traditional dentistry. Modern dentistry has advanced considerably in the last 30 years. It’s effective, necessary, and without it, our society would be far worse off.
But simply treating the symptom(s) – like a cavity – while sensical, is still surface-level because it is simply not taking into account the fact that the cavity was caused by something. It didn’t just appear. It was caused by poor tooth brushing habits, or neglect of dental hygiene, or one of a hundred other causes. But the cavity was caused and it is the symptom. That is clear. And there’s more to your health than just treating the symptoms.
Traditional dental practices may not always prioritize preventive measures or consider the overall well-being of the patient beyond their oral health. And that’s an important distinction, because our oral health plays a crucial role in our lives.
Issues such as poor dental hygiene and untreated dental problems can lead to serious health issues beyond just tooth decay and gum disease. Research has shown that bacteria and inflammation in the mouth can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of diseases such as: Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory infections, and more.
No one wants to end up with poor health. But knowing the cause, understanding what can be done to help prevent some diseases, and regular hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of many common diseases. And that really, is what sets holistic dentistry apart.
So now let’s take a look at a more holistic approach, like what we use at Dental Arts and Wellness.
What Do Holistic Dentists Practice?
Not unlike traditional dentists, holistic dentists treat nearly everything our counterparts treat – cavities, tooth and mouth pain, toothaches, and more.
But, the key difference here is the treatment options available to you at a holistic dentist include methods that and materials that we consider to be superior. Treatment options vary, but at Dental Arts and Wellness, we employ several unique treatments such as ozone (which significantly reduces the number of oral bacteria), laser dentistry (which can reduce the amount of pain and swelling that a patient feels), and revolutionary treatments such as NuCalm Relaxation technology, which can relax patients without drugs.
From root canals to cavity treatment, we offer holistic options for your treatment, and our focus in on your overall, long-term health.
So, the real question is not what, but how do holistic dentists treat patients. The approach is different.
Is Holistic Dentistry Right For Me and My Family?
When considering whether holistic dentistry is the right choice for you and your family, it’s essential to ask yourself these questions.
Do you prioritize natural and biocompatible approaches to healthcare?
Are you interested in addressing the root causes of oral health issues rather than just treating symptoms?
Do you value a personalized approach to healthcare that considers the interconnectedness of oral health with overall well-being?
If you answered yes any of these questions, then you should consider getting more information regarding holistic dentistry.
Modern, state-of-the-art dental equipment, exceptionally friendly and caring staff, and Dr. Yamaguchi.
Education, prevention, and care are combined to offer a unique approach to your dental care needs. If you are looking for dental care that utilizes the latest technology while also considering your long-term overall health, then consider Dental Arts and Wellness for your family’s care.
