What is Holistic Dentistry

What is holistic dentistry and how does it differ from traditional or general dentistry?  A visit to a traditional dentist typically includes a cleaning, an examination, x-rays followed by a plan to fix any oral conditions.  A visit to a holistic dentist will include all of the aforementioned plus advice and guidance for your overall health and well-being.

Let’s Talk About ‘Holistic’

Holistic medicine recognizes that an illness in one area of the body can negatively impact health in other areas.

The guiding principle of holistic dentistry is to treat oral problems by focusing on all aspects of health. This includes an individual’s physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Other names for holistic dentistry include biologic dentistry, alternative dentistry and integrative dentistry.  No matter the title, dentists that practice this approach are dedicated to improving oral health by focusing on overall health and well-being.

How Does Holistic Treatments Vary from General Dentistry?

A holistic dentist will focus on proper habits for teeth cleaning, flossing and oral hygiene, using non-toxic products.  Regular teeth cleaning and dental checkups are essential.

Holistic dentists will use non-toxic filling materials in cavities and suggest any toxic materials in your teeth be removed and replaced with a safer material. 

Many holistic dentists use a type of sedation that induces an altered state of consciousness to minimize pain and discomfort during a procedure. Patients, who receive conscious sedation usually are able to speak and respond to verbal cues throughout the procedure, communicating any discomfort they experience to the provider.

Thanks to advanced technology many holistic dentists are using laser therapy for faster, pain free, and more effective care. 

What Type of Questions Will A Holistic Dentist Ask?

An area that will be discussed in great detail is diet and nutrition. Holistic dentists are trained nutritionists who understand there is a significant link between the food we eat and oral and overall health.

Other areas may include:

• Use of Tobacco 
• Alcohol Consumption
• Exercise Routine
• Daily Stress Levels

How Can I Find a Holistic Dentist?

There are only a handful of dentists in Albuquerque, NM that offer holistic dentistry as it requires a unique set of skills and training.

If you feel that holistic dentistry is of interest to you and you would like to learn about its many potential benefits contact Dr. Abeyta’s office at (505) 293-7611.