Biological dentistry — also called “holistic dentistry“, “natural dentistry” and “biocompatible dentistry” — is an approach to oral care that focuses on the whole person. This means taking into account not just the oral health of the individual, but also their overall health and well-being.
Biological dentists believe that dental health is connected to overall health, and that the mouth is a reflection of the rest of the body. They take a proactive approach to oral care, focusing on prevention and early detection of problems. They also use materials and methods that are compatible with the human body and avoid those that may be harmful.
If you are looking for an oral care provider who takes a holistic, individualized approach to care, Elite Smiles is the place for you. Our team of biological dentists in Mesa are dedicated to providing the highest quality care possible. We believe that oral health is essential to overall health, and we take a proactive approach to oral care. We focus on prevention and early detection of problems, and use materials and methods that are compatible for the human body.
Biocompatible Dental Materials
Resin Vs. Amalgam (Silver) Fillings
While silver fillings are still commonly used in traditional dentistry, biological dentists have completely disregarded them for a number of reasons. With amalgam dental fillings mercury poisoning is a serious issue. There are also problems beyond just that.
- First and foremost, silver fillings are made with mercury, which is a toxic metal.
- Second, silver fillings expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can cause cracks in your teeth.
- Third, silver fillings are not as aesthetically pleasing as resin (tooth-colored) fillings.
- And finally, silver fillings require the removal of more tooth structure than resin fillings.
For all of these reasons, biological dentists only use resin (tooth-colored) fillings. Not only are these more aesthetically appealing, but they’re more biocompatible in that they are non-toxic and they don’t expand or contract with temperature changes.
They’re also naturally adhesive, meaning they don’t have to be forced or wedged into place like silver fillings.
Safe Mercury Removal & Replacement
Many traditional dentists still use mercury fillings, even though they have been linked to a number of health problems. If you already have mercury fillings, a biological dentist can safely remove them and replace them with safer, more biocompatible material.
Biological dentists take care to minimize your exposure to mercury during the removal process. They also use special equipment to make sure that none of the mercury escapes into the environment.
Non-Metal Dental Implants
Traditional dental implants are made of metal, which can cause problems for people with metal allergies.
Biological dentists offer non-metal dental implants made from ceramic or other biocompatible materials. These implants are just as strong and durable as (if not more so than) metal implants, and they’re less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Reduced Levels of Radiation With Digital Scanning Technology
Another benefit of biological dentistry is the use of digital scanning technology instead of x-rays. This type of technology emits much lower levels of radiation, which is better for both dental patients and dental staff.
Digital scanning is also more accurate than x-rays, so it can help to improve the quality of dental care.
Personalized Dental Care Plans
Biological dentists also take a more personalized approach to dental care. This means that they create treatment plans that are tailored to each individual patient’s needs.
For example, a patient with oral allergies may be given a different type of toothpaste or mouthwash than a patient without oral allergies. A patient with sensitive teeth may be given a different type of toothbrush than a patient with non-sensitive teeth.
Biological dentists also take into account a patient’s overall health when creating a treatment plan. This is because oral health is connected to overall health. For example, a patient with diabetes may be at higher risk for gum disease. So, a biological / holistic dentist may recommend more frequent dental cleanings for this patient.
Periodontal & Gum Health
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Biological dentists focus on preventing gum disease and treating it early when it does occur. They use minimally invasive techniques to treat gum disease and promote oral health.
Ozone Therapy & Related Treatments
Ozone therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that can be used to treat gum disease and tooth decay. Ozone is a gas that is made up of oxygen atoms. When ozone is applied to the teeth, it kills bacteria and helps to heal the gums.
A Holistic Philosophy, A Biocompatible Approach
Dental Decay & Its Relation To Serious Disease
Dental decay and gum disease has been linked to serious health problems like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Biological dentists focus on preventing and treating these conditions to help improve overall health.
The bacteria-laden plaque in the teeth and gums has a direct route to the bloodstream from the mouth, which can then end up in the arteries of the heart and brain, causing heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes is also closely linked to oral health problems. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease because they have a harder time fighting off infection. Gum disease can also make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
Biological Dentists Often Work With Other Health Practitioners
While biological dentistry is a relatively new field, there are already a number of dentists who specialize in this area. These dentists often work with other health practitioners, such as medical doctors and naturopathic physicians, to create a treatment plan that is best for the patient.
Reaching your optimal health, as biological dentists know, is a holistic process that involves taking care of your entire body, not just your teeth and gums. That’s why working with other health practitioners is so important. By teaming up with other providers, biological dentists can ensure that their patients are getting the best possible care.
Conclusion
Biological dentists use these minimally invasive techniques to treat gum disease and promote oral health because they believe that these techniques are safer and more effective than traditional methods. In addition, biological dentists believe that these techniques can help to prevent the development of oral health problems in the future.
Contact Elite Smiles To Set a Biological Dentistry Appointment Today!
If you are interested in learning more about biological dentistry, or if you would like to set up an appointment with a biological dentist, please contact Elite Smiles today. Our team of experienced and caring dental professionals would be happy to answer any questions that you may have. We look forward to meeting you soon!
