Glen Allen, VA patients ask, “What is holistic dental care?”
Dr. Olivia Hart of Richmond Family Dentistry offers holistic dental care to patients in the Glen Allen, VA area. Biological dentistry involves protecting a patient’s overall health, not just that of the oral cavity. Also known as biological or biocompatible dentistry, this approach allows the body to heal itself rather than utilizing potentially dangerous chemicals, materials, and procedures.
What is holistic dental care?
As an alternative to traditional traditional dentistry, biological dentistry offers patients natural care. With this dental philosophy, the individual person, the body, mouth, and mind, are considered as a unit. Holistic dentists acknowledge the impact toxic materials have on dental and physiological health. The goal is to maintain the integrity of the oral cavity using materials and methods that are systemically compatible.
Holistic dental care uses a biocompatible approach.
One of the main concepts of biological dentistry is maintaining a biocompatible approach. By following a biocompatible approach, holistic dentists strive to preserve the natural parts of the mouth and to cause as little disruption as possible. A conservative approach is taken first when addressing problems. Minimally invasive methods are used when possible. Holistic, biocompatible dentistry seeks non-toxic answers as well.
As a holistic practice, we understand that what enters the mouth affects the rest of the body. A biocompatible approach allows us to choose better, safer materials. Ceramic, porcelain, or composite materials are used to correct damaged or decayed teeth. These materials are non-toxic and metal free. They promote overall health, do not cause negative reactions with the body, and produce a better aesthetic result. The decision to use non-toxic materials is simple but makes a long-term difference.
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Schedule an Appointment today.
Holistic dental care is mercury safe.
In our holistic practice, we avoid the use of mercury. The dangers of this metal are known as it may cause or contribute to health issues. As a naturally occurring substance, mercury is poisonous and non-radioactive. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that any level of mercury is not safe. Even the smallest amount may be damaging. Mercury can affect nearly any system of your body including the digestive, respiratory, and neurological systems.
Mercury is still used in many dental practices as it is found in amalgam fillings. Amalgam fillings are known to contain toxic chemicals which may lead to health problems. These fillings are a mixture of metals generally consisting of silver, mercury, tin, and copper. With 50% of the mixture bing mercury, the filling may contain as much mercury as a thermometer. Some dental practices continue to use amalgam fillings because they are less expensive and easy to insert. However, this comes at a cost to the patient’s health. Mercury can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Over time, the vapors are continuously released from the fillings and accumulate within the body.
At Richmond Family Dentistry, we maintain a mercury safe office. We use tooth-colored, composite fillings. These fillings are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and safe. There is no metal and they are compatible with the body. We also follow precise steps for the safe removal of previously placed amalgam fillings. The procedure for amalgam removal is laid out by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). We safely remove and properly dispose of pre-existing amalgam fillings. This protocol is safe for the patient, dental team, and environment.
Benefits of biological dentistry
Our practice is committed to individualized patient care. Using customized treatment plans, patients are treated as the unique individuals they are. Our professional team strives to protect our patients’ oral and overall health with holistic dental care. We utilize materials and procedures that are biocompatible and safe. We provide comprehensive holistic practices which gives patients a sense of security knowing we have their health and best interests at heart.
Benefits of biological dentistry and following a biocompatible approach include:
- Using toxin-free substances
- Causing minimal disruption to the mouth during procedures
- Utilizing ceramic or composite restorations rather than metal
- Eliminating mercury in dental work
- Using state-of-the-art technology
- Offering laser technology such as Nightlase to address snoring and sleep apnea and Smoothlase to smooth wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin
- Following a dental approach that promotes long-term health benefits
If you are interested in learning more about biological dentistry, contact Richmond Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment with Dr. Hart. We look forward to helping you improve your oral health in a safe, toxin-free manner. Call (804) 381-6238.
