Holistic Dentistry - what's involved?
...by David Cook
• What's the difference between a regular dentist and a holistic dentist?
A holistic dentist will look at all aspects of dental health - teeth, gums, jaw joints and muscles, bite, facial aesthetics and assess how these relate to general health and wellbeing. The causes of any dental problems, from diet and habits to other health issues are investigated and a personalised plan produced to restore and maintain long term dental health.
All materials used will be chosen for strength and natural beauty but also for biocompatibility (so there are no negative effects) and the patient is at the centre of and involved in all aspects of care from planning through to delivery.
• When would it be worth a bride considering a visit to a holistic dentist?
To make sure her smile is at its best on her big day. Whether she's looking for whitening or a full smile makeover, she'll get the best, most advanced care available provided in a stress-free environment by a team that cares. We'd recommend that brides book as early as they can so everything can be completed without stress well before the big day.
• What sort of holistic measures could a bride take herself in the run-up to her wedding for a healthy smile?
Stopping smoking will have a significant effect. She could also take CoQ10 supplements as this is known to be protective for gums, and using a tea tree mouthwash reduces plaque and freshens breath. Drinking fewer carbonated drinks will also help, and flossing regularly and using an electric toothbrush such as Sonicare or Braun will all help. And of course a visit to the dentist and hygienist is essential!
• How would you advise a bride to deal with unsightly and sore mouth ulcers
the holistic way?
Mouth ulcers can be caused by stress so brides are at risk! The homoeopathic remedy aconite can reduce stress while zinc and folic acid supplements can reduce incidence of ulcers. Propolis applied to ulcers 3-4 times a day can reduce healing time by half. If you're very prone to regular ulcers then some simple blood tests should be done to eliminate iron or folate deficiency.
• What sort of smile-enhancing measures could a holistic dentist offer?
Tooth whitening is the most obvious. In experienced hands the technique is safe and effective causing no harm and dramatically lifting the whole smile. Replacing of old and unsightly metal fillings or crowns can also change the look of the smile.
Teeth can now be straightened using "invisible" braces and an holistic dentist can correct a bad bite which relieve muscle tension in the face and neck for better comfort and appearance.
• How would someone go about finding a properly qualified and insured holistic dentist in their local area?
There is as yet no reliable method for local searches and word of mouth recommendation from a friend or colleague is often the best way, you may have to travel to get the level of care you want (many patients of London Holistic Dental Centre travel from all over the UK and overseas).
• What should they expect at their consultation?
A thorough in depth examination. Teeth, gums, bone, jaw and muscles will be looked at, X-rays and photographs may be taken. The patient should have time and feel comfortable to ask any questions and any treatment proposed should be fully explained and any available alternatives will be discussed. This requires time and all new patients will need at least an hour-long appointment.
David Cook has 20 years' dentistry experience and has studied in the UK and the US. For more information see www.londonholisticdental.com
