Natural Holistic Dentistry in Durango, CO

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.

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.

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.

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.