Holistic Dentist FAQ

What You Need To Know About Holistic Dentistry

Did you know that more than 90% of all systemic diseases have oral manifestations? 

Indeed, your dentist may be the first healthcare provider to diagnose a health problem in its early stages. That is why choosing a dentist who prioritizes your overall health and well-being is so important.

Holistic dentists understand and honor the mouth-body relationship. A biological, natural, or holistic dentist operates according to the belief system that oral health is fundamentally connected to overall health and well-being.

This comprehensive collection of frequently asked questions and answers can be your guide when making essential decisions about you and your family’s oral health.

What is Holistic Dentistry?

Holistic dentistry is the practice of assessing, treating, and maintaining oral health using natural solutions supported by holistic diagnostics and techniques. Holistic dentistry is an embodiment of dental care that prioritizes the overall health and wellness of an individual, beyond their teeth alone.

A holistic dentist understands that the mouth and body are fundamentally connected. They aim to show how the mouth and body reflect one another and how oral conditions can reveal underlying illness or disease.

Holistic dentists are advocates of minimally invasive dentistry. It is their mission to treat and restore the natural health of your mouth while working in harmony with your entire body. They seek to educate their patients and always use safe, biocompatible dental materials. Many are trained to provide ceramic dental implants and advanced mercury-removal protocols in accordance with IAOMT guidelines.

What are the Main Differences Between a Holistic Dentist and a Traditional Dentist?

Wondering how a holistic dentist differs from a traditional dentist? While both aim to protect your oral health, holistic dentistry takes a whole-body approach—considering how dental treatments, materials, and infections impact your overall wellness. Holistic dentists use non-toxic, biocompatible materials, avoid metals and mercury entirely, follow strict safe amalgam removal protocols, and emphasize prevention, education, and minimally invasive care. Traditional dentists, on the other hand, typically focus solely on teeth and gums, relying on standard materials, diagnostics, and conventional procedures. Below is a closer look at what truly sets holistic dental care apart.

A holistic dentist focuses on the following key concepts in their practice:

• Whole-Body Evaluation: Establishing that the health of the mouth is intrinsically linked to the health of the entire body. This approach considers the whole body when treating dental issues while honoring the impact of dental materials, procedures, and infections on a person’s overall health. Holistic dentists also consider nutrition, toxicity levels, detox and cleansing support, and guidance to help eliminate harmful habits.
• The Use of Naturally Safe Materials: Committing to the use of safe, durable, non-toxic, biocompatible dental materials, while strictly opposing the use of amalgam or mercury fillings. This helps to lessen your toxic load while decreasing stress on your immune system and the environment. Ceramic dental implants made of zirconia are a natural and safe alternative that can be used to replace unwanted metal fillings.
• Bio-Compatibility Testing: Performing bio-compatibility testing to determine which filling material best suits your individual biology.
• Metal and Mercury-Free: Informing patients on the risks associated with the use of mercury-containing (amalgam) fillings in dentistry and adjusting their practice accordingly. While The US National Library of Medicine claims no known safe level of exposure to mercury, holistic dentists hold true to this claim and do not risk using it at all in their practice.
• Safe Amalgam Removal: Recognizing the importance of using proper amalgam removal protocols to protect patients from mercury exposure. Failing to follow these protocols risks mercury vapor being released into the air during removal and potentially being absorbed into the body by inhaling or ingesting vapors. This is dangerous for the patient, surrounding dental personnel, office staff, and the environment. International Academy of Oral Medicine & Technology (IAOMT) is a guaranteed certification to look for in your holistic dental practitioner to ensure proper training in amalgam removal.
• Focus on Education: Devoting more time solely to education and preventative care. Holistic dental care providers proactively seek to inform and educate their patients about the importance of the mouth-body connection, safe bio-compatible materials, maintaining overall health, and more. Alternative dentists approach care from a holistic perspective—aiming to treat the root cause of issues rather than symptoms alone. 
• Advocate for Minimally Invasive Dentistry: Seeking to treat dental ailments, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and cosmetic issues, without the overuse of extensive drilling or unwarranted procedures. Holistic dentists aim to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure and surrounding tissue as possible.

What Materials Do Holistic Dentists Use to Fill Cavities?

Holistic dentists prioritize biocompatible materials that are healthier for your body and the environment while minimizing exposure to substances that could be toxic or cause harmful side effects. This practice avoids traditional mercury-containing amalgam fillings and prioritizes mercury-free, BPA-free materials that integrate naturally with the mouth and the entire body. 

Common Bio-Compatible Holistic Dental Materials:

• BPA-free Composite Resins (most commonly used for fillings)
• Porcelain and Ceramic for Tooth Restorations, Crowns, and Implants

Why do Holistic Dentists Typically Avoid Root Canals?

Holistic dentists tend to discourage root canals based on loss of vitality (the concern that a tooth that has undergone this procedure is no longer a living tissue). This can often lead to infection and systemic health issues due to residual, hard-to-eliminate bacteria and toxins within the dentinal tubules (microscopic tunnels in the tooth) and surrounding tissues. 

What are the Safest Alternatives to a Root Canal?

Looking for safer, more natural alternatives to a root canal? Holistic dentistry offers several options that prioritize preserving healthy tooth structure, eliminating the infection gently, and supporting long-term oral wellness. Depending on the condition of the tooth, treatments may include vital pulp therapy, pulpotomy, ozone therapy, or, if the tooth can’t be saved, extraction followed by a zirconia implant. Below is a quick guide to the safest root-canal alternatives to consider.

• Vital Pulp Therapy: When your tooth is in a condition where it can still be preserved, vital pulp therapy aims to preserve the tooth’s living tissue by removing the infected part alone. This helps the tooth heal and preserve its vital inner tissues.
• Puplotomy: This procedure involves removing the diseased or infected portion of pulp from the crown of the tooth, leaving the healthy inner tissue in the root intact to stimulate root development.
• Ozone Therapy: Holistic dentists may use ozone gas or ozonated water to thoroughly disinfect the inside of the tooth. Ozone effectively kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses without relying on synthetic chemicals.
• Extraction and Implant: If your tooth is not salvageable, the safest, most permanent alternative to a root canal is extraction followed by the placement of a zirconia dental implant or bridge.

Why Choose Zirconia Dental Implants?

100% Bio-Compatible Material: Zirconia dental implants are made of zirconium oxide (ceramic), a biocompatible, naturally occurring material that does not conduct heat or electrical energy. They are metal-free and hypoallergenic, so they will not cause irritation or trigger immune responses or allergic reactions in the body.

• Natural Aesthetics: Zirconia is naturally white, so it blends seamlessly into your existing teeth. These tooth-colored, ceramic dental implants look and act just like a natural healthy tooth and without the gray lines (the kind you might get near your gums with titanium implants, over time).
• Strength and Durability: Zirconia is a remarkably strong, durable material that’s resistant to fracture, bending, compression, and wear. Because of its crystalline structure, it is exceptionally strong and even crack-resistant.
• High Degree of Osseointegration: Once an implant is placed, the bone grows around it, “locking” it in to secure it in a process called osseointegration. This process is absolutely essential for the longevity of the implant.
• Long-Lasting Results: On average, zirconia dental implants are expected to last 10-15 years, with some studies suggesting they can last even longer.
• Preserves Gum Health and Prevents Bacteria Growth: Ceramic implants accumulate less plaque and bacteria than metal implants, which lowers your risk of gingivitis, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Additionally, the biocompatibility benefits of ceramic implants equate to healthier gums with less inflammation or risk of infection.
• Lower Risk of Complication: Ceramic dental implants do not release toxic chemicals into the mouth like metal ones often do. Its smooth surface prevents bacteria and plaque from accumulating and is highly corrosion-resistant.

What are the Benefits of Choosing a Biological, Holistic Dentist?

A Biological Dentist is simply another name for Holistic Dentist. They can also be referred to as a natural dentist, integrative dentist or biocompatible dentist. Choosing a biological dentist offers a wide range of benefits including focusing on whole-body health, preventive health, using non-toxic and biocompatible materials, and more:

• Whole-Body Health Perspective
• Preventative Care
• Non-Toxic Materials
• Mercury-Free
• Minimally Invasive Treatments
• Nutrition and Oral Hygiene Guidance
• Holistic Alternatives to Root Canals
• Personalized Treatment

Why Choose an IAOMT-Certified Holistic Dentist?

The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) is a global network of dentists, health professionals and scientists who research the biocompatibility of dental products, the risks of mercury fillings, fluoride, root canals, jawbone osteonecrosis and so much more. The IAOMT organization offers Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) certifications providing dentists with training in amalgam removal. This training involves learning about the application of rigorous safety measures, including utilization of specific equipment as well as comprehensive application biological dentistry testing.

IAOMT extensively covers units on Safe Removal of Amalgam Fillings, Biocompatibility, Heavy Metal Detoxification, Fluoride Harms, Biological Periodontal Therapy, and the Potential Hazards of Root Canals. In summary, IAOMT is a reputable biological/holistic dental certification you can trust.

What Is Ozone Therapy in Dentistry?

Dental Ozone Therapy is a natural and noninvasive methodology practiced to help heal teeth and gums. It is a holistic treatment designed to help fight oral infections, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing process.

Ozone teeth therapy is unique in offering a gentle yet effective way to treat dental concerns without harsh chemicals or invasive procedures. How it works is, Ozone gas or ozonated water is given to clean and disinfect areas in your mouth. Its strong antimicrobial properties kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi on contact. With its ability to reach deep, the ozone treatment can clean gum pockets, tiny tubules, and other hard-to-reach places traditional disinfectants and antibiotics often miss.

 Is Invisalign for me?

If you want a metal-free solution to straighter teeth and a healthier mouth, Invisalign may be the right choice for you! Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth from their current, misaligned position to a straighter, properly functioning alignment. Each set of Invisalign aligner trays is custom-designed to fit you comfortably.

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. Patients find it easier to maintain good oral hygiene as the removable aligners don’t require special tools to keep their teeth clean.

Here are some simple indicators Invisalign may be a good fit:

• You have all of your permanent adult teeth
• You have good oral hygiene and no active gum disease
• You have mild to moderate orthodontic issues such as crowded, crooked or overlapping teeth. (Invisalign may not be suitable for more severe orthodontic problems that could require traditional braces or surgery)
• You are willing to wear the aligners for at least 20 hours a day and are committed to following the treatment plan along with routine visits
• You are a non-smoker and do not have oral habits that could potentially damage the aligners (such as biting nails, grinding teeth, clenching your jaw, chewing gum, etc.)

What Age Should My Child Begin Seeing a Pediatric Dentist?

According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first pediatric dental visit around the age of one or within six months of their first tooth eruption. But it’s never too late to bring your child to the dentist!

What is the Oldest Age to Still Have Baby Teeth?

In early childhood, around age 6-7, your child’s first baby teeth fall out. By late childhood, around age 7-12, they more regularly lose other teeth, including incisors, canines, and premolars. And finally, by adolescence, age 12-13, your child should have lost all 20 of their baby teeth.

Can Rotting Baby Teeth Affect Permanent Teeth?

Yes, rotting baby teeth can negatively affect your child’s permanent teeth. Bacteria from a decayed baby tooth can spread to the developing permanent tooth, causing infection and inflammation. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely due to decay, the surrounding teeth could shift and misalign, affecting the position of their permanent teeth. Infection and decay in your child’s baby teeth can also weaken the enamel of the permanent teeth that are developing underneath.

What is Preventive Orthodontics?

Preventive orthodontics, or interceptive orthodontics, focuses on guiding jaw and tooth development early—typically in childhood—to prevent more serious dental issues later. Addressing problems like crowding, bite misalignment, and airway concerns before they worsen can reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.

Preventive orthodontics is an innovative approach designed for early intervention, starting as young as four years old. By targeting the root cause of misalignment early on, preventative orthodontics focuses on preventing crooked teeth rather than correcting them later in life. This proactive approach can help your child achieve a beautiful smile without braces or surgery, and it also promotes overall health by improving airway function and enhancing sleep quality.

What is MyoBrace for kids?

The MyoBrace system is a form of preventative (or interceptive) early orthodontic treatment that corrects poor oral habits, promotes proper jaw development, and helps straighten teeth naturally—often preventing the need for braces.

MyoBrace uses a series of removable oral appliances combined with myofunctional training exercises to guide natural dental and jaw development. This treatment helps create sufficient space for teeth to come in properly, reducing or even eliminating the need for braces. Beyond straighter teeth, MyoBrace supports better breathing, improved facial development, and overall wellness.

What is HealthyStart for Kids?

The HealthyStart System is a non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical, and pain-free path to straightening your child’s teeth. This system will not only create a beautiful smile for children but also lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy breathing. It can correct an overbite, overjet, rotation, crowding, and spacing. It can help children who snore, grind their teeth, have frequent night wakings, wet the bed, are hyperactive, and more. A HealthyStart habit corrector can even straighten your child’s teeth and eliminate their need for braces later in life.

How Can I Naturally Straighten My Child’s Teeth Without Braces?

Looking for ways to help straighten your child’s teeth without traditional braces? Today’s functional and growth-focused dentistry offers several gentle, natural alternatives that guide proper jaw development and improve alignment early on. Options like clear aligners, removable appliances (such as expanders), Myobrace, and Healthy Start work by encouraging healthy oral habits, supporting airway development, and creating the space teeth need to align naturally.

Below is a breakdown of the most effective natural orthodontic options available for children.

• Clear Aligners (Invisalign): A series of custom-made, transparent, and removable trays that gradually shift teeth into their correct position over time.
• Removable Appliances: Devices such as palatal expanders are designed to widen the upper arch for children with a small mouth palate while headgear can correct more severely misaligned bites by guiding jaw growth.
  Myobrace: This system focuses on guiding the natural development of the jaws and straightening teeth by providing a series of removable oral appliances in combination with early intervention through correcting oral habits, such as tongue position and breathing.
• HealthyStart: A non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical, and pain-free path to straightening your child’s teeth aimed to correct overbite, overjet, rotation, crowding, and spacing.

Does HealthyStart Minimize the Need for Braces?

Yes, HealthyStart is known as Preventative orthodontics or interceptive orthodontics. HealthyStart focuses on guiding jaw and tooth development early—typically in childhood—to prevent more serious dental issues later. By addressing problems like crowding, bite misalignment, and airway concerns before they worsen, it can reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment in the future.

Preventative orthodontics is an innovative approach designed for early intervention–starting as young as four years old. By targeting the root cause of misalignment early on, preventative orthodontics focuses on preventing crooked teeth rather than correcting them later in life. This proactive approach can help your child achieve a beautiful smile without braces or surgery, and it also promotes overall health by improving airway function and enhancing sleep quality.

What is the Difference Between Restorative Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring damaged teeth to improve their overall health and functionality while using treatments such as fillings, crowns, and implants. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and overall smile by prioritizing aesthetics and addressing issues such as stains, gaps, and misalignment. Common procedures practiced in cosmetic dentistry are teeth whitening, veneer placement, and tooth bonding.

How are Teeth Restored Naturally?

Tooth enamel damage can be repaired through a natural process known as remineralization. Saliva contains beneficial minerals such as calcium and phosphate. So your mouth is already focused on redepositing these minerals into your weakened enamel. You can support the remineralization process by improving your oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, and avoiding both sugary and acidic foods that are known to cause tooth decay.

What Techniques and Therapies can be used in Holistic Dentistry?

Minimally invasive holistic dentistry techniques include:

• Air Abrasion
• Biomimetic Restorations
• Regenerative & Biocompatible Approaches
• Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Therapy
• Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR)
• Biocompatibility Testing
• Advanced Diagnostics & Therapies include:
• Salivary Testing
• Ozone Therapy
• Red Light Photomodulation (Photobiomodulation)
• Whole-Body Connection & Lifestyle Focus
• Nutrition Counseling
• SMART Technique Mercury Amalgam Removal
• Unique Biological Dental Technologies include:
• Galileos 3D Cone CT (3D Digital X-Ray)
• CEREC One Day Restorations
• Intra-Oral Video
• Laser Therapy – SiroLaser Advance and LightScapel CO2
• iTero Intraoral Scanner
• Fotona Laser & NightLase Snoring Laser
• Digital Smile Design
• OraLase
• Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
• Sedation Dentistry

Ready to Learn More?

At Integrative Dental Solutions, it is our mission to provide holistic, health-centered, evidence-based dental care to treat the root cause of the problem and not just the symptoms that manifest in the mouth.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for a personalized consultation. We look forward to meeting you and addressing all of your unique dental care needs. Schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward truly whole-body dental wellness. Call us at (262) 226-2545, contact us, or request an appointment. We would love to connect and learn how we can best serve you!