Holistic Dentistry

   Holistic dentists are dentists who care for a patients' health and safety from both a conventional and an "alternative healthcare"e; point of view. They practice holistic dentistry, treating each patient as a whole individual (mind, body and spirit) rather than simply a set of teeth. Holistic dentists are sometimes referred to as "mercury-free" or "metal-free" dentists, because they use composite resin fillings instead of mercury-based amalgam, and will also replace old amalgam fillings with composites. This use of biocompatible materials helps rid the body of toxins.

As good health is more than the absence of disease, a holistic dentist individually considers the effects of dental treatment upon each patient, educating them while offering alternatives to conventional treatment. To do this, the holistic dental practice includes specialists trained in many different dental procedures. The holistic dentist cares for the whole patient and considers the interrelated problems each patient has, understanding the many relationships between medical conditions and the health of the teeth, gums and jaws. This can include communication with health care professionals in other disciplines.