What is Holistic Dentistry? Understanding The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellbeing

26 July 2024

What is Holistic Dentistry? Understanding The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellbeing

Have you ever wondered what is meant by the term ‘holistic dentistry’? What exactly is it, and is it something you should consider?

Let’s start with a definition of holistic dentistry which is also known by several other names including:

• Biological dentistry
• Biocompatible dentistry
• Natural dentistry
• Alternative dentistry

Holistic dentistry utilises a modern approach that emphasises the inter-relationship between oral health and overall physical and mental well-being. It concentrates on how oral health affects general health and vice versa. A holistic dentist treats dental conditions after taking a patient’s physical and psychological health into consideration.

So, how did holistic dentistry come about?

The history of holistic dentistry

Holistic dentistry has its roots (pardon the pun) in research conducted by a certain Dr. Weston A Price. Dr. Price was born in Canada in 1870 and earned his dental degree from the University of Michigan in 1893. After several years of dental practice, he developed an interest in the link between nutrition and dental health. So much so, in fact, that throughout the 1920s and 1930s, he travelled the globe to study traditional diets and their effects on dental and overall health.

Armed with his findings, he made a significant impact on holistic dentistry with his research on the connection between diet and dental health and observed that individuals consuming traditional diets rich in nutrient-dense foods had far superior dental health compared to those eating modern processed foods. He also identified that diets high in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and K2 were essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Additionally, Price investigated the link between root canals and chronic health issues, believing that bacteria trapped in root canals could lead to various health problems, including heart disease, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders. His findings on this subject were ground-breaking and remain relevant today influencing many holistic dentists who adopt a more cautious stance on root canal treatments.

What is the relationship between oral health and overall well-being?

The connection between oral health and overall well-being is not merely symbolic; it’s also physical. The mouth serves as the main gateway into the body and provides a warm, moist environment for bacteria to flourish. A typical person’s mouth can harbour up to six billion bacteria and 700 different species. While most of these bacteria are harmless or effectively managed by the body’s natural defences, poor oral care can lead to bacterial overgrowth, resulting in oral infections, tooth decay and gum disease (periodontitis). These bacteria can then enter the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body.

Proven evidence reveals the association of periodontal diseases with systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes including premature birth and low birth weight. Other serious conditions linked to gum disease include Endocarditis: An infection of the inner lining of the heart’s valves or chambers and Pneumonia: A respiratory condition caused when bacteria in the mouth are pulled into the lungs.

How does a holistic dentist differ from a traditional dentist?

Holistic dentists are general dentists who utilise holistic techniques to diagnose and plan treatment. Because every part of the body is interrelated, they focus on a patient’s physical and mental health to get to the source of the problem and plan treatment accordingly. They may also work closely with other healthcare providers, to provide a wider spectrum of complementary therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy and meditation that can enrich a patient’s quality of life and well-being. Conversely, conventional dentists typically diagnose and treat conditions affecting the head and neck areas, including gums, teeth, jaws and jaw joints.

See more details below.

Holistic dentistry vs mainstream dental care – Core principles

Holistic dentistry:

Prevention – Wherever possible the goal of a holistic dentist is to prevent rather than treat. By achieving a healthy mouth and keeping it that way, they hope to prevent disease. As such, they will address any lifestyle issues or warning signals that could place the patient at risk before they escalate into more severe conditions. For example, if a patient presents with gum disease, not only will they treat the problem, but they will refer them to a nutritionist who can help them make wiser food choices both for oral and general health. They will also discuss the relationship between gum disease and diabetes to provide a better understanding of the importance of maintaining oral hygiene to avoid systemic diseases.

Biocompatible materials and natural remedies – Holistic dentists are completely against using any dental materials that could harm the body. So, while many conventional dentists still use amalgam in dental fillings due to its low cost, ease of use and durability (despite the controversy surrounding it), a holistic dentist will use bio-compatible materials only, such as white composite resin.

Furthermore, holistic remedies are natural, unlike traditional medicine. For example:

• Herbal toothpaste for daily brushing rather than chemical toothpaste
• Clove oil for toothache rather than painkillers
• Herbal mouthwash for gum disease instead of chlorhexidine mouthwash
• Propolis produced by bees to fight infection instead of antibiotics

Minimally invasive treatments – Holistic dentistry also favours minimally invasive treatments utilising advanced techniques and technologies for a faster, more efficient and more comfortable patient experience. Treatments may include laser dentistry, ozone therapy, and air abrasion.

By prioritising biocompatible materials and minimally invasive treatments, avoiding mercury in fillings, and incorporating nutritional counselling, holistic dentistry transcends symptom-based treatment, adopting a proactive, health-centric approach that positively impacts the entire body.

Now let’s compare that with conventional dentistry…

Mainstream dental care

Symptomatic treatment-based focus – Traditional dentistry tends to focus on addressing immediate dental concerns with proven treatments such as fillings, braces, and implants (combined with improved brushing and flossing), without necessarily exploring the root causes that may occur outside of the mouth or indeed, the potential effects on overall health. While this method can effectively resolve specific dental problems, it may sometimes neglect the wider health implications that a holistic approach would take into account.

Use of conventional materials – Mainstream dental care typically employs materials that meet established standards. Although these materials adhere to traditional criteria, they might not fully consider potential health impacts. This reliance can limit the exploration of alternative, more biocompatible materials that could reduce adverse reactions and enhance overall health.

Focus on oral health – Mainstream dentists primarily concentrate on oral health. The care provided is specifically designed to address dental issues within the mouth, without necessarily taking into account the broader systemic effects. While this is highly effective for oral health problems, it may miss opportunities to identify or prevent other health concerns.

So, now we’ve explained the differences between holistic dentistry and traditional dentistry, is holistic dentistry something you should consider?

Reasons to visit a holistic dentist

There are several reasons to consider seeing a holistic dentist. As with any healthcare provider, it’s essential to find a dentist who meets your specific needs. If you have an interest in alternative medicine, a holistic dentist could be an excellent choice. These professionals are licensed, trained dentists who offer necessary services while incorporating alternative techniques and natural remedies.

For those who prefer to avoid surgery, holistic dentists prioritise non-surgical treatments and view surgery as a last resort. They monitor your health and ensure progress before recommending any surgical procedures.

Additionally, if you have persistent dental issues that haven’t responded to traditional treatments, a holistic dentist might be the right option for you. Holistic therapy offers alternative solutions when conventional medicine provided by a licensed practitioner falls short.

Why not enjoy the best of both worlds?

A person can enjoy the best of both worlds at a modern dental practice like Cheadle Hulme Dental which combines outstanding patient care with cutting-edge technology and certain holistic practices. This includes the use of composite white tooth fillings as standard and biocompatible materials like ceramic and porcelain for restorations. We also offer gentle endodontic treatment or alternative solutions like dental implants, all within a warm and friendly environment. This blend ensures comprehensive, long-lasting dental care that addresses both immediate needs and overall health.

Why not schedule a booking by calling us on 0161 486 0743 or using our online booking system? We look forward to helping you put your best smile forward.