Natural Holistic Dentistry in Durango, CO
In holistic dentistry, we can say that when we treat the patient we are not just looking at treating the mouth but the whole person.
The term “holistic” was defined by Aristotle as “the whole is more than the sum of the parts.” Studies show that well over 50% of the population has been engaged in some form of holistic medicine for many years now as we strive to improve our health.
In holistic dentistry, we can therefore say that when we treat the patient we are not just looking at treating the mouth but the whole person. This means several things. First, the conditions in your mouth such as decay, gum disease, missing teeth, and other problems can affect your body. (In addition, the medical condition of your overall health and body can affect your mouth.) Second, the materials we place in your mouth can also affect the whole person. As a holistic general dentist the object is to restore your mouth with materials that are proven compatible with your specific body.
Biocompatibility of Dental Materials
There are many dental materials out on the market that dentists place in the mouth. But a lot of these materials may affect the body. For instance, many of the composites (white fillings) that are placed in the mouth contain BPA which studies show produce reactions to the body. There are also over 500 different metals that can be placed in the mouth. If you have crowns, bridges or partial dentures, you have dissimilar metals. Gold crowns are not 100% gold. They contain other metals such as silver, platinum, palladium, rhobidium, indium and nickel (which can cause cancer). Most dentists that place these crowns in your mouth have no idea of the metal contents. Dissimilar metals in the mouth can cause unhealthy reactions and act like a battery. They can also cause contact dermatitis if in contact with your gums or cheeks. If you have problems wearing jewelry you probably have a problem with any type of metal in your mouth. We routinely test the electrical charges coming off the metals in your mouth as part of our initial comprehensive exam. High electrical readings in the mouth can cause a battery effect and may have harmful effect to your brain and the rest of your body.
Safe Removal of Toxic Dental Materials
We will remove toxic materials such as the mercury fillings and metal crowns in the mouth under safe conditions and protocols. This means that you are protected against the toxic fumes and residue that can overwhelm your body as it is removed. Unsafe removal can be just as toxic or even more toxic if not removed properly.
Natural Remedies and Products
Holistic general dentists also feel that natural products are kinder to the body and the body reacts more favorably to this kind of treatment without side affects. Natural toothpastes and mouth rinses, herbal and homeopathic remedies for pain are just a few things we use in this office.
Acupuncture can also be used for pain control and relaxation.
The fluoridation of water as a public health measure has a long history in the United States. See below to read more about different points of view about fluoride’s role in preventing dental decay.
Fluoride: The American Dental Association (ADA) View
Since 1956, the American Dental Association (ADA) has published Fluoridation Facts. Revised periodically, Fluoridation Facts answers frequently asked questions about community water fluoridation. In this 1998 edition, the ADA Council on Access, Prevention and Interprofessional Relations provides updated information for individuals and groups interested in the facts about fluoridation. The United States now has over 50 years of practical experience with community water fluoridation. Its remarkable longevity is testimony to fluoridation’s significance as a public health measure.
In IAOMT’s ongoing examination of the toxicological data on fluoride, the Academy has made several preliminary determinations over the last 18 years, each concluding that fluoride added to the public water supply, or prescribed as controlled-dose supplements, delivers no discernible health benefit, and causes a higher incidence of adverse health effects.
Our office feels that an educated patient should be able to make up their own mind about mercury amalgams and the harm they may do to the body. Hopefully we have provided enough information on this website and links for you, the patient, to make an informed opinion on your own. We are here to work within your own philosophy and help you co-develop your treatment that will provide you with a comprehensive plan for optimal health.
The team of John A. Rothchild will continue to be dedicated to optimal health goals for our patients. We will deliver an excellence in treatment experience while maintaining a warm, friendly environment. We will also strive for improvement in our team through our commitment to continuing education and to our own health. We will strive to create a healthy environment to promote growth and long term commitment for our patients.
The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) imperatively
petitions the International Governments to cease and/or restrict the use of mercury-containing dental “fillings” (also commonly referred to as “silver amalgam” or “dental amalgam”).
Dental amalgam is considered a safe and durable material that has been used to restore the teeth of more than 100 million Americans. It contains a mixture of metals such as silver, copper and tin, in addition to mercury, which binds these components into a hard, stable and safe substance. Dental amalgam has been studied and reviewed extensively, and has established a record of safety and effectiveness.
The Meridian Tooth Chart is based on acupuncture meridians, pathways of energy that span across interrelated body parts, glands, and tissues.