When it comes to choosing a dentist, you have lots of options! As you research local providers, you may come across a few practitioners who say they are “biological dentists.” What exactly does that term mean, and are there any benefits that come with choosing a practitioner who adheres to biological principles? This blog post shares important information.
What Is a Biological Dentist?
A biological dentist, also called a holistic dentist, looks at your mouth as one part of your overall health rather than an isolated system. It recognizes that oral health has a profound impact on overall health and vice versa.
Biological dentistry focuses on care that aims to protect your teeth, gums, jaw, and body with materials and methods that support biocompatibility. This approach often avoids metal restorations, reduces unnecessary exposure to harsh substances, and favors conservative treatment whenever possible.
How Is a Biological Dentist Different from a Conventional Dentist?
The main difference is the philosophy behind treatment. A conventional dentist may focus on the immediate dental problem alone. For example, they may take a “drill and fill” approach for cavities without completely accounting for the long-term effects of decay and the materials used to address it.
A biological dentist, on the other hand, also considers how treatment choices may affect your full system. That is why they tend to avoid metal-based restorations, such as silver amalgam fillings, which are known to contain a high percentage of toxic mercury. They are also focused on finding the most conservative treatment option for any given situation — the less invasive, the better!
Additionally, a biological dentist may favor hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride-based products. Some patients are concerned about the potential side effects of fluoride. Hydroxyapatite is another mineral that can fortify teeth, but it is safe to consume and helps to rebuild lost enamel from the inside out.
Benefits of Visiting a Biological Dentist
When you visit a biological dentist, you may get to enjoy a number of outstanding benefits:
- Whole-Body Focus: You receive treatment that considers how your oral health may affect your overall wellness. Holistic/biological dentists may even give lifestyle and nutrition tips that can help you feel better on a daily basis.
- Gentle Preventive Care: You may benefit from conservative methods that protect healthy tooth structure and reduce the need for more extensive treatment later.
- Advanced Supportive Therapies: Biological dentists are often ahead of the curve when it comes to advanced therapies. For example, many offer ozone therapy, which is highly effective at killing harmful oral bacteria.
- Personalized Treatment Planning: You can expect a plan that reflects your goals, your health history, and your personal values. Often, biological dentists are willing to spend a bit more time with each patient in order to optimize treatment outcomes.
A biological dentist might just change the way you view oral care! It is certainly worth your time to visit a practice that offers this unique approach to health and wellness.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ken Allen is a highly skilled biological dentist and a member of the International Academy of Biological Dentistry & Medicine and International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology. He and our team are eager to combine holistic health principles with advanced techniques to provide truly top-quality care. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, contact Biological Dentistry of Kane County at 630-394-4470.