Holistic dentistry challenges concepts in traditional Western medicine and it has become more popular in recent years. Holistic dental care is centered around the overall well-being of both your body and your mind. It is based on the concept that everything in the body is connected and as a result, seeks to treat underlying problems and illnesses at the source. Rather than simply treating the symptoms as they arise.
Holistic dentistry and holistic medicine, in general, see the body as a whole and recognize that symptoms that occur in one place can affect the body elsewhere. It incorporates the mental as well as the physical well-being of the patient and takes all possible health factors into account when treating illness.
As a result, there are several benefits to holistic dentistry when compared to Western dental care. Holistic dentists take an individualized approach to treatment because every patient has different needs. They use biocompatible materials that are safe for your body. They seek to understand the role a patient’s lifestyle can play and how it can affect oral health. And there is an emphasis on preventative treatment and aftercare.
1) An Individualized Approach to Dental Care
In modern medicine, practitioners are taught to treat the symptoms patients experience, and nothing more. Many dentists never take the time to really get to know their patients, the problem is treated and the patient is discharged. An individualized approach to dental care is unattainable with this treatment style.
In holistic dentistry, we understand that there is not always a generic treatment that applies to everyone. That is why at VCCID we treat our patients as individuals. We build a treatment plan based on your specific needs. Our bodies are unique, this includes our oral health. An individualized, tailored approach ensures that your dental care does not have any negative impact on the rest of your body. After treatment, we focus on aftercare and follow up appointments to monitor your body’s reactions to treatment, and promote healing.
2) Biocompatible, Non-Toxic Materials
Traditional Western dental care utilizes materials that have been in use for decades. One such example is amalgam fillings. There have been recent controversies over silver amalgam fillings because they contain mercury, a substance that is toxic to the human body. They were used in dentistry due to their strength, affordability, and effectiveness for many years.
However, holistic dentists consider the effect materials have on your entire body, rather than simply filling the tooth with standard materials, they look at the after-effects these toxic materials could have. At VCCID we never use mercury in our fillings, and we are able to safely remove mercury fillings for patients.
3) Treat the Root Cause
Holistic dentistry aims to get to the root of the problem. It incorporates all factors that contribute to health and well-being including a patient’s lifestyle, mental, physical, and emotional health, as well as their nutrition.
In holistic dentistry, rather than treating individual symptoms as they arise, practitioners look to the underlying causes. For example, a patient experiencing frequent cavities may have an underlying nutritional disorder that must be examined to prevent future cavities from occurring.
Sometimes, health problems can be seemingly unrelated. Holistic health care seeks to dive deeper, with the understanding that everything in our body is connected. As a result, practitioners get to the source of the problem.
It was recently discovered that periodontal disease can cause inflammation in the body that leads to a variety of cardiovascular problems. Rather than simply treating these separate symptoms, a holistic approach goes further to discover the connection between both oral and physical health.
“The recent application of new knowledge and concepts regarding inflammation and periodontal disease has led to a discussion of new approaches to therapy and comprehensive care that include holistic and interprofessional management of oral and systemic inflammation.” – Anthony M. Iacopino.
Doctors and dentists alike are taking a more holistic approach with regard to treatment plans and medication.
4) Emphasis on Health and Prevention
Due to our individualized approach to dental care, we take the time to get to know each of our patients. We can assist in educating patients with regards to lifestyle, aftercare, and nutrition. We seek to inform and empower our patients so they can take control of their own health and make decisions towards future prevention.
5) Focus on Balance: Body, Mind, and Lifestyle
Our holistic approach extends beyond simply treating your oral health problems. We prioritize your needs and take your lifestyle and routine into account when creating your personalized treatment plan.
We know that your oral health care is an important factor that contributes to the whole of your well being. As noted in Oral Health in America: A Canadian Perspective, “North Americans are taking a more holistic approach to health care, and it is encouraging to see that oral health is being included as an important component of general health and well-being.”
We seek to help our patients take control of their health. We know that the body is a system and problems can arise when it is not in balance. This is why we consider lifestyle and nutritional factors and encourage our patients to focus on overall well-being.
Visit VCCID in Burnaby, BC
At VCCID our team is proud to take a holistic approach to dental care. We understand the need for an individualized approach in this industry. We never put our patients at risk and only use non-toxic, biocompatible materials that are safe for the body. If you are interested in learning more about holistic dentistry, visit our clinic located conveniently in Metrotown, Burnaby. Our caring and educated staff would be happy to schedule your holistic dental consultation today.
