Holistic, Integrative & Biological Dentistry
Holistic dentistry — also called integrative or biological dentistry — means treating the mouth as part of the body rather than as a separate set of problems. In practice, at our Millenia Walk clinic, it means three things: materials chosen for biocompatibility, restorations that remove as little natural tooth as possible, and treatment planned around your general health rather than only the tooth in front of us.
What it means here, concretely
- Biocompatible materials. Ceramic and BPA-free composite rather than metal where the clinical situation allows it.
- Conservative preparation. Onlays instead of crowns where enough sound tooth remains, because a tooth that keeps more structure has more left if it needs treatment again.
- Mercury-safe removal protocols when old amalgam fillings are being replaced — isolation, high-volume suction, sectioning rather than grinding. See amalgam removal.
- Gum health treated as a health issue, not a cleaning issue. Periodontal inflammation is associated with cardiovascular disease and with poorer diabetic control.
- A medical history that is actually used. Medications, reflux, sleep, grinding and diet all show up in the mouth, and all change what treatment is appropriate.
And what we will not tell you
We think it matters to be clear about the limits, because “holistic” is used to sell a good deal of nonsense. We will not tell you that removing sound amalgam fillings treats an unrelated illness. We will not offer to diagnose systemic disease from your teeth. We will not recommend removing healthy root-treated teeth on the theory that they are poisoning you.
What we will do is use materials with a good biological profile, cut away as little of your own tooth as possible, and take your general health seriously when planning treatment. That is the whole of it, and it is enough.
Questions
What is the difference between holistic, integrative and biological dentistry?
They are largely used interchangeably. All three describe treating the mouth in the context of the whole body, using biocompatible materials and conservative techniques.
Do you use fluoride?
Yes, in age-appropriate amounts, because the evidence for topical fluoride in preventing decay is strong. If you are fluoride sensitive or would prefer not to, tell us and we will discuss good alternatives and the trade-off.
Are your restorations metal-free?
By and large, they are — milled ceramic and BPA-free composite. In the limited situations that still call for metal, we only use titanium, and we will say so and explain why rather than compromise your oral health. The main one is implants, which are titanium at present — we are in the process of bringing in ceramic zirconia implants for patients who would rather avoid metal entirely.
Do you remove sound root-treated teeth for health reasons?
No. A root-treated tooth that is symptom-free and radiographically sound is left in place and monitored. Of course, if there is active disease, then that is a completely separate conversation, as there can be systemic health implications then.