Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Ask Dr. G: Questions and Answers about Holistic Dental Care


Why should I choose a holistic dentist?
Dentists with a holistic approach consider the source and the causes of the problems in your mouth, not just the symptoms. In general, holistic practitioners are mindful of the mind, body and spirit. Holistic dentistry emerged in the late 1970s as biological dentistry, which was a new form of Probiotic (life-supporting) dental medicine. It was developed in Germany and is now taught and practiced throughout the world. Holistic dentists invoke natural healing. They opt for non-invasive treatments and techniques whenever possible. In addition, holistic dentists provide patients with information and resources to help them take charge of their overall health.

How can I tell if I have periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease usually starts between the ages of 30 and 40. Symptoms include chronic bad breath, swollen and/or bleeding gums, loose and/or sensitive teeth and receding gums. While advanced periodontal disease is easy to detect by the natural eye, the early stages are only diagnosed by either dentists or hygienists. Dentists believe that gum disease needs to be treated with the same kind of intensity as heart disease, diabetes and other major ailments because it is detrimental to the health and well-being of patients. Holistic dentists treat gum disease with herbal remedies and thorough deep cleanings, plus lifestyle and nutritional changes to keep the gum disease under better control.

What are zirconia dental implants?
Zirconia dental implants are a metal-free alternative to titanium dental implants. The reason holistic dentists and others are offering zirconia is that the metal in titanium may affect some people in a negative way. Zirconia dental implants are also safe and strong, with studies showing that these metal-free implants don't retain a lot of plaque. Zirconia is classified as a high-performance special ceramic and does not conduct electricity. As a result, there are no negative effects on meridian energy pathways. Zirconia dental implants have tooth-like color, which makes them aesthetically and cosmetically pleasing to patients. To learn more, visit www.zirconiadentalimplantsblog.wordpress.com

What’s the deal with mercury-free, mercury-safe dentistry?
Many dentists and others are concerned about the toxicity of amalgam fillings in the mouth. As a result, a mercury-free movement has been established within the dental community. Mercury-free dentistry contains safe, tooth-colored porcelain composites that are as strong as mercury/silver amalgam fillings. In addition to mercury-free fillings, a mercury-free practice can use porcelain composite material to repair chipped, cracked, broken or worn teeth. Mercury-safe dentistry has taken safety to another level, with equipment and an overall environment that ensures patients, dentists and all others in the dental office are safe from fumes during the removal of amalgam fillings.

To learn more about Dr. Gashinsky and his holistic approach to dentistry, visit www.drgdds.com. You can also find the New Jersey holistic dentist on Twitter and Facebook.