Heard about Holistic dentists, but wanting to know more? This article will provide you with a quick overview of the field.
A holistic dentist is a physician who concerns themselves with a more natural and holistic dental care approach. These physician strive to provide professional care and treatments to patients without the use of traditional dental materials,
including mercury, fluoride and other harmful chemicals. Many of these practitioners also address additional health factors, including diet, lifestyle and dental treatments that have been provided to patients prior. Many holistic dentists encourage patients to remove their old mercury fillings due to the potential risks involved.
Facts
Holistic dentists must complete the same schooling as traditional dentists. Additionally, many of these practitioners also involve themselves in alternative medicine studies such as acupuncture, hypnosis and homeopathy.
Holistic physicians are generally very opposed to the idea of root canals and other invasive procedures as they feel patients should be treatment in a more natural fashion.
Most of these physicians subscribe to the belief that a person’s oral health has an direct affect on their overall health. Gum diseases such as Gingivitis are believed to contribute to additional health issues such as heart disease.
Benefits
Most practitioners will take the time to discuss diet and lifestyle choices with their patients as a preventative means to health care. Teeth require a variety of minerals, including phosphorus, zinc, calcium and boron.
Patients who seek the help of a holistic physician will likely be provided with a less invasive dental care approach. In some practices, patients will find massage therapists, who will help you relax during your appointment.
Most patients find holistic practices less stressful due to the extra measures taken by the physicians and office staff to ensure that their patients are relaxed and comfy.
Risk factors associated with the field are minor to none when compared to traditional dental practices. Though, patients should keep in mind that each physician will use their own unique approach. Some may still encourage the use of traditional anesthesia.
Misconceptions
In general, there are quite a few misconceptions surrounding the holistic dental care field. Many people are under the belief that these physicians are not able to offer as many treatment options as traditional oral health specialists, when in most cases, holistic practices offer the same treatments. The contrast lies in the use of different materials that are believed to be safer for patients. Most practices offer a broad array of services, including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, nitrous oxide, hypnosis, and even nutritional supplements.
Another common misconception surrounding holistic oral health care is that they are vehemently opposed to traditional dentistry. In most cases, this is far from the truth. Many physicians work side by side with traditional dentists. Some have even specialized in traditional methods before switching their practice.
Significance
Holistic dentistry is important because it provides patients with a natural alternative to traditional dental care. Patients should be afforded the option of which type of care they receive. Holistic practices offer patients that choice. If you are interested in learning more about holistic practices, the best option is to get in touch with a holistic physician who specializes in oral health. He or she will be able to provide you with additional details to help you make an informed decision regarding your oral health.
