In recent years, the concept of natural dentistry has gained traction among individuals seeking alternative and holistic approaches to oral health care.
Natural dentistry, often referred to as holistic dentistry, revolves around the belief that oral health is intricately linked to overall health and well-being.
It’s important to understand the potential benefits and risks of natural dentistry, gaining insights for an informed approach.
What is natural dentistry?
Holistic dentistry, also known as natural dentistry, is an alternative approach to dentistry that focuses on caring for the body as a whole, including your spiritual, physical, and mental health.
Natural dentistry operates on the belief that one’s oral health is directly tied to their overall well-being. It’s important to note that natural dentists do obtain a dental degree and dental license, so they still utilize traditional oral health maintenance methods such as flossing, brushing, and other common treatments. However, they will combine these practices with alternative methods as well.
Natural dentistry treatments
In addition to traditional dental treatments, natural dentistry may suggest additional treatments or natural remedies that focus on overall health, such as:
- Nutritional changes: Tailoring your diet to include nutrient-rich foods beneficial for your overall health or promoting the consumption of more foods with oral health benefits.
- Herbology: Incorporating herbal remedies to address and manage various dental concerns. For example, a natural dentist may recommend peppermint oil to help with pain and sage to help with inflammation.
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture has an analgetic effect and is often used as an alternative to help manage dental pain.
The risks of natural dentistry
In certain situations, natural dentistry practices may pose potential risks. Individuals with a significant history of tooth decay or those fighting severe dental infections might find that conventional treatments such as fluoride or root canals are essential in preventing irreversible damage.
In addition, some herbal remedies may have unintended interactions with prescription drugs. Ask your doctor about using herbal remedies if you’re using prescription drugs.
Is natural dentistry right for me?
If you’re curious or passionate about alternative medicine, or struggling to find a solution to a persistent dental issue, natural dentistry might be worth exploring. Always prioritize your oral health by consulting with your healthcare professional to ensure a well-informed and balanced approach to dental care.
Note: The American Dental Association doesn’t endorse the practice of natural dentistry. A policy statement from the ADA says: “Health care interventions, whether or not considered CAM*, should be subject to testing using similar research standards and scientific rigor to provide a strong, evidence-based foundation for their safety and appropriate use. Within this context, the notion of CAM as a specific subset of interventions that belong to a specific discipline can be considered questionable.”
*Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)