At TMJ Plus Wellness Center, we take a whole-body approach to dentistry because we know that your oral health and your overall health are closely linked. In addition to our innovative TMJ disorder treatments, we also offer holistic dentistry services, which is a more integrative approach to dental health. If you’re new to holistic dentistry, you likely have questions about how it works and the science behind it. Below, we share answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our patients.
What does holistic dentistry mean?
Instead of focusing on your teeth and gums alone, holistic dentistry means taking a step back and looking at how your oral health is impacting the rest of your body. We know, for example, that dysfunction in the jaw can trigger muscle tension that causes chronic pain from your head to your fingertips; gum disease doesn’t just cause inflammation in the gums, but systemic inflammation that impacts your cardiovascular health. Viewing your body as a connected system, with each part interacting with the others, allows us to better support your health. As a holistic dental practice, we work closely with nutritionists, osteopaths, chiropractors, speech therapists, and other holistic practitioners to optimize your wellness.
What do holistic dentists use for fillings?
One of the hallmarks of holistic dentistry is the use of mercury-free dental fillings. We use BPA-free composite material to restore teeth with cavities. Not only is this filling material safer, it can also be matched to the exact shade of white of the rest of your tooth for a more natural appearance that blends in flawlessly with your smile. You may want to test your body for what material work best for your help. There is a test that evaluates what materials work best with your body and health concerns.
What is the difference between a holistic dentist and a regular dentist?
A holistic dentist takes a wider perspective that doesn’t just look at your teeth and gums, but also your muscles, airway, and bones. We want to know about other health issues you’re experiencing too, as we may be able to find connections between those problems and your oral health.
Is holistic dentistry covered by insurance?
Many holistic dentistry treatments are covered by dental insurance, but not all of them. We can help you understand what your plan covers and what your out-of-pocket expenses will be.
What is ozone dental treatment?
Ozone dental treatment reduces the amount of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in your mouth before and after dental procedures, including tooth extractions, periodontal treatment, and dental fillings. This prevents the bacteria from being transported to other parts of the body and potentially causing infection.
Are ceramic implants better than titanium?
Yes, ceramic implants are superior to metal implants in several ways. They attract less bacteria around the gums compared to titanium implants, which means they have a lower risk for periodontal disease, and they don’t conduct heat energy. Dr. Coats is a preferred provider for Z-Systems ceramic dental implants.
How do dentists remove mercury fillings?
Dr. Coats has advanced training in the safe removal of mercury fillings. Our practice follows all safety protocols from the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, which means we take all of the necessary steps to protect you, our team, the air, and the environment. Your tooth is isolated with a dental dam so the mercury never comes into contact with other teeth or tissues and advanced HEPA air filters and suction ensure that vapors are captured while we work. We provide you with a chlorella rinse to remove all traces of mercury and provide you with a safe composite filling. Your health professional can guide you on how to prepare your body before and after mercury removal with detox and or lymphatic treatment.
Learn More About How Holistic Dentistry Can Benefit You
If you’d like to learn more about holistic dentistry, contact us today at 817-481-6888 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Coats.