Holistic dentistry – treating the whole patient – Part 2

This post is the second in a two part series on holistic dentistry, airway issues, TMD, and OMDs. If you haven’t already read part 1, I recommend you do before continuing.

Mouth breathing (continued)

When a patient chronically sleeps with their mouth open, it damages tooth enamel and gum tissue, decreases oxygen absorption, and causes other problems. For more information on mouth breathing, check out our page on airway issues.

Acupuncture & oriental medicine

Our dentist works with Dr. Lee Medina, DOM, to integrate oriental medicine into her practice. One of the most common uses of oriental medicine in our office is to treat TMD, or temporomandibular joint disorder. TMD is often (although incorrectly) referred to by the abbreviated name of the joint, TMJ. Dr. Medina uses acupuncture, massage, and other non-invasive healing techniques to relax the muscles of the TMJ and provide pain relief for TMD sufferers.

Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders

Our dentist works with Sandraluz Gonzalez, a registered dental hygienist, and a certified orofacial myofunctional therapist. Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) are disorders of the muscles and functions of the face and mouth. OMDs may affect, directly and/or indirectly, chewing, swallowing, speech, occlusion, temporomandibular joint movement, oral hygiene, stability of orthodontic treatment, facial esthetics, and more.

Holistic dentistry reflects the interconnected nature of the human body

If you’ve made it this far into this post series, you’re probably starting to get the sense that all the disorders we’re talking about are part of the same, interrelated web of cause and effect. Only by taking a wide view, reinforced by a detailed understanding of the relationships between the body’s various systems, can a medical professional accurately diagnose and recommend treatment for these conditions.

Going to a dentist who is only trained to treat your mouth is a little like going to a mechanic who can only fix transmissions. Sure, they’re important, but there’s a lot of other parts on a car that are crucial, too.

Whether you suffer from TMD, airway issues, other OMDs, or just want to go to the most qualified dental team around, give the office a call today to set up an appointment.