Holistic Dentistry

The term refers to the whole or complete systems rather than parts. It accounts for the interconnectedness between the mouth and the rest of the body. So, as it relates to dental care, true holistic dentists like Dr. Janbakhsh approach every patient interaction with a focus not just on the teeth but on the patient as a whole. This philosophy accounts for the fact that the health of the teeth, gums, bone, and jaw are affected by the rest of the body (and vice versa). By accounting for these connections, we promote the optimal health of your “whole body.” After all, you are so much more to us than “just” a set of teeth and gums!

As noted in some of the other questions below, holistic practitioners like Dr. Janbakhsh also promote using only the healthiest and safest products, which means we do not introduce metals to the body. We also practice alternatives to root canal therapy, resolve cavitations that can result when extraction sites do not heal properly, and account for other aspects of oral anatomy and function that can affect your overall health and well-being, from the foods you eat to your “bite” (the position of the teeth and jaws).

Numerous studies in medical literature have shown links between oral diseases and systemic illnesses. Some of these illnesses, which may have dental origin, include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and even cancers (such as pancreatic tumors). Inflammation and bacteria associated with oral diseases like advanced gum disease (periodontitis) are thought to play a role. By understanding these intricacies and links, we are in a great position to stay ahead of problems and keep you healthy rather than react to problems after the damage has already been done.

Fillings have traditionally been made from a combination of metals or amalgam. These silver-hued restorations contain more mercury than anything else. In fact, on average, amalgams contain ~50% mercury by weight. Since it is well-established that mercury is a toxin, we avoid using this material. Instead, we repair cavities with non-toxic, lovely-to-look-at ceramics and more biocompatible dental composite. We go above and beyond as a “mercury-safe” practitioner and are “mercury-free.”

Being an office free of mercury means no amalgams are used in fillings. However, being mercury-safe means that the office has invested in special protocols and technologies to ensure the safest experience when removing and replacing these toxic fillings with metal-free ones. We abide by the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology’s SMART guidelines. Following the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) minimizes the potential release of mercury particles and vapors during this process. This makes for a safer experience for you as a patient, our team, and our community and planet. Our holistic focus also transcends fillings and includes metal-free alternatives for tooth replacement and crowns, such as zirconia implants.