A holistic dentist is a dental professional who takes a whole-body approach to oral health care, focusing not only on the teeth and gums but also on the overall health and well-being of the patient. Holistic dentists believe that there is a strong connection between oral health and the health of the rest of the body, and they strive to use natural and non-toxic materials and techniques to promote overall health and wellness.
Some of the principles of holistic dentistry may include:
- Using biocompatible materials, such as ceramic or composite resin, for fillings and other restorations
- Avoiding the use of mercury in dental amalgam fillings
- Incorporating nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice into treatment plans
- Using minimally invasive techniques and technologies, such as laser dentistry
- Considering the impact of dental treatments on the body's natural balance, such as the microbiome and immune system.
Holistic dentistry is an alternative approach to traditional dental care, and it has gained popularity in recent years. However, it is important to note that the practice is not regulated, and not all practitioners who claim to be holistic dentists may follow the same principles.
What is the difference between a holistic dentist and a functional dentist?
Holistic dentistry and functional dentistry are both alternative approaches to traditional dental care that focus on the relationship between oral health and overall health. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Holistic dentistry is a philosophy that considers the entire body when diagnosing and treating oral health issues. Holistic dentists believe that the health of the mouth and teeth is connected to the health of the rest of the body, and they use natural and non-toxic materials and techniques to promote overall health and wellness.
Functional dentistry, on the other hand, is a more medically oriented approach that combines principles of traditional dentistry with the principles of functional medicine. Functional dentists use advanced diagnostic testing to identify underlying health issues that may be contributing to oral health problems. They focus on addressing the root cause of these issues rather than simply treating symptoms.
In summary, while both holistic dentists and functional dentists share a commitment to a more integrative and personalized approach to dental care, holistic dentists may focus more on natural and non-toxic materials, while functional dentists may focus more on advanced diagnostic testing and treatment of underlying health issues.
Academy of Integrative Health & Medicine. (n.d.). Holistic Dentistry. Retrieved from https://aihm.org/holistic-dentistry/
Holistic Dental Association. (n.d.). About Holistic Dentistry.
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021). Oral Health: Complementary Approaches. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/oral-health-complementary-approaches
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Updated: 09-24-2023