Condition Spotlight
Oral health myth: “What goes in the mouth, stays in the mouth.” In other words, if you put something into your mouth, as long as you don’t swallow it, you can spit it out and it won’t make its way into the rest of the body.
But wait–research has proven this isn’t true. In fact, what we put into our mouths gets absorbed through the gum and cheek tissue, and it ultimately winds up in the bloodstream.
Daily brushing and flossing and limiting sugary food and beverages are always at the top of good dental practices regardless of age. The tween and teen years do highlight some special concerns. The late teen Read More
Certain procedures, such as implant-supported teeth, rely on a stable foundation to ensure success. When the jawbone is compromised, either through disease, injury, or natural resorption, treatment options often include a bone graft or a Read More
Biological dentistry offers a fresh perspective for those seeking a more natural approach to oral health. This branch of dentistry focuses on the connection between oral health and overall well-being, aligning perfectly with the interests Read More
Dental care is not something you want to play around with. Millions neglect their teeth and gums only to develop crippling health issues later in life, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Taking care of Read More
We’ve all been there, right? You are out with friends, and someone says, ‘You have something in your teeth.’ The struggle to free your teeth of food begins. Awkwardly you cover your mouth with your Read More
Waking up in the middle of the night to a throbbing pain in your mouth is not fun. Toothaches can be excruciating, and many different issues can cause them. Even if you brush your teeth Read More
It only takes up a small amount of space––but when considering its influence on the rest of the body, your mouth punches well above its weight. Oral health has downstream effects on overall wellness. You’ve Read More
Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. This routine is drilled into most of us during early childhood. Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for your oral health. Read More
The adage says, if something stains a tablecloth, it’ll also stain your teeth. Yet, there are some foods that might surprise you. Some fruits and vegetables, for example, will stain your teeth but spare your Read More
Many people believe there is only one type of dentistry, a traditional dentist. However, there is a holistic industry for dentistry that is also helpful to those who need dental care. A holistic dentist believes Read More
Holistic dentists work closely with a wide range of other complementary practitioners. They realize that oral health is related to many chronic health issues. They look at the underlying causes for gum disease and cavities: Is it your diet, or hormonal changes or acid reflux?
That may mean prescribing a head massage, acupuncture session, meditation lessons or dietary counseling. They may run blood tests for biocompatibility of materials and incorporate approaches from Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, herbology, homeopathy, iridology, craniosacral therapy and energy medicine. They will look for signs of sleep apnea and often treat it. However, with the added tests and consultations, they tend to be more expensive, with many procedures not covered by dental insurance. Their numbers are small: Only 391 of 199,000 American dentists belong to the HDA, or about one in 500.
Yet the natural health movement that drives holistic dentistry is having an effect on the profession at large. Many dentists nationwide, pressured by patients and aided by new technology, are abandoning toxic and invasive options for less harmful methods. Controversial mercury amalgam fillings are being edged out by less toxic options like resin composites that match teeth color; the amount of mercury sold in the U.S. for dental amalgams fell by half between 2001 and 2013.
Another factor regarding oral health is that people tend to visit dentists more often, so find one who can use what they see to improve your overall health. Taking care of our teeth and gums is simply worth the daily time and trouble to facilitate long-term health. Your oral care should be taken just as seriously as watching your diet.
