Biological, or holistic, dentists practice with the understanding that a person’s oral health is inseparable from their physical and emotional health. They focus on using non-toxic, biocompatible materials and minimally invasive techniques to treat dental issues.
This approach often means they avoid materials and procedures that are a standard part of conventional dentistry, such as:
Mercury Amalgam Fillings: A primary concern for biological dentists is the use of mercury in “silver” fillings. They focus on using mercury-free and mercury-safe materials and follow strict protocols for the safe removal of existing amalgam fillings to protect both the patient and the environment.
Fluoride Treatments: While fluoride is a standard preventative measure in conventional dentistry, biological dentists may offer alternatives and focus on nutritional and dietary solutions to prevent decay, as they have concerns about the potential health effects of fluoride.
Root Canals: A Source of Chronic Infection: Biological dentists hold significant concerns about conventional root canals. They believe these procedures can leave behind bacteria that may remain sealed within the tooth’s tiny tubules and the jawbone. Over time, this can become a source of chronic infection and inflammation, releasing toxins into the bloodstream that may contribute to systemic illnesses like autoimmune diseases, heart issues, and other degenerative conditions. For this reason, many biological dentists prefer safer alternatives or will perform a more thorough, specialized procedure to ensure the area is as sterile as possible.
Instead, they emphasize a “whole-body” view, often considering a patient’s diet, stress levels, and overall lifestyle when creating a treatment plan. They may also use advanced technologies like digital x-rays to minimize radiation exposure and test for the best materials to use for each individual patient.
A fascinating principle in biological dentistry is the concept of tooth meridians. Drawing from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), this theory suggests that each tooth is not an isolated part of the body, but is energetically connected to a specific organ, gland, or body system through a meridian, or energy pathway.
This means that a chronic issue with a particular tooth—such as an unresolved infection, decay, or even a past extraction site—could potentially impact the corresponding organ system, and vice versa.
Here are some examples of these connections:
Upper and lower incisors (front teeth) are linked to the kidneys, bladder, and endocrine system.
Canines (eyeteeth) are connected to the liver and gallbladder.
Premolars are associated with the lungs and large intestine.
Molars and wisdom teeth are connected to the stomach, spleen, pancreas, and heart.
A biological dentist may look at a chronic health issue that has no clear cause and consider if a dental problem could be at the root of it. While this is not always the case, some patients have reported that addressing a dental issue has helped alleviate seemingly unrelated symptoms.
Symptoms that might be connected to a tooth meridian imbalance include:
Chronic digestive issues (e.g., bloating, stomach pain) that could be linked to a molar problem.
Respiratory problems (e.g., asthma, congestion) that may have a connection to a premolar.
Fatigue or hormonal imbalances that could be associated with front teeth issues.
Chronic joint pain or headaches with no clear cause.
By exploring these connections, biological dentists can provide a truly holistic form of care that looks beyond the mouth to support the health of your entire being.
To better visualize and understand these connections, some biological dentists use advanced diagnostic tools like thermography. Unlike X-rays, thermography is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging technique that uses a thermal camera to measure and map the heat patterns on the surface of your body.
In a biological dental setting, a dentist may perform a facial thermogram to identify “hot spots” or areas of inflammation around a tooth or in the jaw. These thermal patterns can provide visual evidence of a potential underlying issue that might be affecting the associated meridian and organ. This can help confirm a suspected connection and guide a more precise and targeted treatment plan.
The benefits of biological dentistry extend far beyond a healthy smile:
Minimizing Toxin Exposure: By avoiding materials like mercury and focusing on biocompatible alternatives, biological dentists help reduce the body’s exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care: They take the time to understand your complete health history, lifestyle, and concerns. This allows for a more personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of dental issues rather than just the symptoms.
Focus on Prevention: This approach prioritizes preventative care through nutrition, diet, and natural oral hygiene practices, empowering you to maintain your health and avoid future dental problems.
Holistic Wellness: A biological dentist can be a valuable partner in your overall health journey, working with other practitioners to support your total well-being.
If you are looking for a dentist who shares your commitment to natural health and a holistic lifestyle, a biological dentist may be the perfect fit for you.
When searching for a biological dentist, it’s important to do your research. You can start with these professional directories:
The Holistic Dental Association: Find a Holistic Dentist
The International Academy of Biological Dentistry & Medicine (IABDM): Find a Dental Practitioner
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