Holistic dentistry has patients smiling

Fill'er up

Larry Anderelli had a lot of fillings—the silver amalgam types commonly used by dentists for the past 150 years. Other than showing up for his regular cleanings and the occasional session with the drill, though, the Arizona resident didn't think much about his teeth. That is, until the day a routine test revealed high levels of mercury—a toxic metal—in his body.

"The only mercury I had been around for long periods of time was what was in my mouth," says Anderelli. Concerned about possible side effects such as impaired neurological functioning, he chose to have the mercury-laden fillings removed and replaced with a more biocompatible material.

Though problems resulting from mercury fillings are rare, it makes intuitive sense to look for dental options that are more compatible with—and less toxic to—the human body. That search for biocompatibility is an underlying principle for a new breed of practitioner: the holistic dentist.

The new breed of dentists

According to the Holistic Dental Association (HDA), one of the main premises of holistic dentistry is "to consider the ramifications of dental care on the entire individual." As a result, holistic dentists look for the least invasive treatments with the fewest negative effects on the patient. This can extend beyond the selection of filling materials and into such areas as root canal techniques, drill types and pain management methods.

The root of the matter

California dentist Tim Gallagher, D.D.S., uses a new approach called Biocalix for root canals in patients who may suffer from impaired immune systems. While most people's immune systems can handle a traditional root canal, says Gallagher, those with conditions such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome "don't do well."

The Biocalix canal uses a calcium hydroxide material to actually "change the terrain of the tooth," says Gallagher, a member of the HDA. By killing the bacteria in the dentin tubules, the bacteria do not proliferate or release toxins. In contrast, some dentists believe that traditional root canal methodology actually traps bacteria in the dentin tubules, thus allowing for the continuous spread of bacteria.

George Meinig, D.D.S., F.A.C.D., author of Root Canal Cover-up, writes that this trapped bacteria can actually result in a decreased immune system and other health problems. Thus, even those with normally functioning immune systems may want to consider the Biocalix alternative.

What a pain

When root canals are being discussed, the topic of pain is never far behind. Thankfully, some of latest advances in the field of dentistry significantly reduce the pain quotient for patients.

In late 1998, FDA approved a laser system for use on the hard tissues of the mouth, making it suitable for procedures where a drill previously was used. CNN recently reported that the tool, which uses a combination of a laser and water, results in less pain and less need for anesthesia than a traditional drill. Another alternative to drilling, says Jon Karna, D.D.S., is the air particle brush. Karna, president of the Society for Advanced Dentistry, says the brush is "fast, preventive, aesthetic and minimally invasive. Generally, no needle or drill is required."

When some pain management is needed, holistic dentists such as Gallagher are looking at options besides Novocaine, a common anesthesia of choice that can leave the patient with that "fat lip" feel for hours after the procedure. "A lot of anesthetics are known carcinogens," says Gallagher, so instead "we use an electronic anesthesia."

With electronic pain relief, electrodes are used to stimulate the nerve endings, thereby inhibiting the brain's ability to sense pain signals. Does it work? "It has its limitations," Gallagher admits.

Whether using electrodes or needles, Gallagher urges patients to consider the biocompatibility of the pain medications that are administered, and to look at factors such as pH, preservative content and toxicity. Low toxicity, neutral pH and absence of preservatives are least disruptive to the body.

An ounce of prevention

Of course, under ideal circumstances you'll never need to worry about problems like root canals, fillings and pain medications. In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, there are a few other steps you can take at home to preserve the health of your teeth.

Periodontal, or gum, disease can lead to tooth decay and loss, and its treatment can be costly and painful. Dr. Andrew Weil, an alternative health expert, says that 60 to 100 milligrams of coenzyme Q (CoQ10) per day taken in capsule or tablet form can help improve the health of your gums. He also suggests quitting smoking and massaging your gums with your fingertips, both of which will stimulate circulation. "Smoking reduces circulation to the gums, reducing their vitality and increasing susceptibility to disease," says Weil.

If the worst-case scenario materializes and you do need dental work, give your immune system a boost with "2,000 mg of vitamin C twice a day and one dropperful of echinacea four times a day, starting the day before your procedure and continuing through the day after," Weil says.

Calling the shots

Whatever your dental needs, a key to holistic dentistry is remembering that you're a partner in your own healthcare. You have the right—and the responsibility—to educate yourself, ask questions, and with the help of a responsive dentist, make the decisions that are best for you.