Alternative dental practices have become increasingly popular over the last few years. As people become more weary of some dental practices and ingredients, they may find themselves considering holistic dentistry. But not all dental practices are created equal, and some may not be sufficient to address oral health problems.
Choosing to incorporate the wrong dental practices into your oral hygiene routine might not seem like too major a decision. However, it can lead to significant worsening of existing dental conditions. If you want to learn more about whether holistic dentistry is right for you, keep reading to see what our team recommends.
What is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic dentistry is an alternative way to care for your teeth that has become increasingly popular during the 21st century. Holistic dental practices may include Ayurvedic practices, homeopathy, aromatherapies, and acupuncture treatments. Many of these practices are roots in ancient medical practices.
Holistic dentistry aims to heal your entire body instead of treating a single problem. It focuses on the connection between your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. If you are interested in the way every system across your body is interconnected, holistic dentistry may be a good option for you.
Are Holistic Dental Practices Right for You?
Whether holistic dentistry is right for you will vary based on your current oral health condition. If you are currently struggling with oral health problems like gum disease or recession, severe tooth decay, or cavities, you may consider making the transition over to holistic dentistry to attempt to alleviate these conditions.
However, that is not a good idea. Instead, you should continue to rely on traditional dental care to address your oral health conditions before making any adjustments to your oral hygiene routine. Additionally, if you are considering making adjustments, you may want to speak to your dental provider.
Your dentist and dental hygienists will have a more thorough understanding of your current oral health condition and whether your existing routine is adequate in protecting your teeth. If they notice you’re not flossing properly, brushing too hard, or not using enough fluoride, it is best to follow their recommendations instead of opting for holistic dentistry.
Finally, it is important to check with your insurance to determine if they cover this dental care. Not all holistic dental practices will be covered by your insurance, and you don’t want to be caught off guard by a costly treatment after its already done. If you’ve gone down the list and are still interested, holistic treatment may be right for you.
The Importance of Finding a Balance
When it comes to dental care, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. But it’s important that you strike the right balance, or you risk doing more harm to your teeth than you intend. Some common holistic dental practices include using oil-pulling products and opting out of fluoride-based products.
The American Dental Association does not currently recommend oil pulling due to a lack of scientific evidence to support its benefits. However, if you do choose to incorporate this practice into your oral hygiene routine, it’s essential not to cut out other important practices like brushing and flossing, as this could lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
If you choose to cut fluoride out of your routine, it is important that you incorporate other similar ingredients, like hydroxyapatite or xylitol. These natural ingredients perform similarly to fluoride and can help protect your teeth against the harsh acids and bacteria in your mouth. Without these ingredients, you may experience increased tooth decay.
Ultimately, if you believe holistic dentistry is right for your smile, it is essential that you do plenty of research beforehand. Restorative dental work can be expensive and painful. You don’t want to risk the long-term health of your smile for a short-term phase. Make sure you read plenty of research and consult a dentist if you’re considering altering your oral health practices.
Why You Still Need Traditional Dentistry
Although holistic dentistry is a good option for some oral health conditions, it shouldn’t be used as an exclusive treatment. Opting for exclusively holistic dental practices may compromise the well-being of your smile. Some holistic practices aren’t sufficient enough to address infections, major irritations, and tooth decay.
If your dentist has recommended dental treatments, such as root canals, it’s best to follow their advice. There are no reliable holisitc alternatives to restorative treatments like this, and choosing to deviate from this treatment plan can have devastating consequences. Additionally, if your dentist recommends tooth extraction, you should follow this advice closely.
Your dental team will do everything in their power to prevent extraction. If they recommend this treatment when you visit the office, it is being suggested because it is the best option for protecting your mouth from further damage. While this can be daunting, it is best to follow their advice in lieu of following holistic practices.
Protect Your Teeth at Avenues Dentistry
While holistic dentistry is a reliable way to address some oral health conditions, it’s essential to continue seeking traditional dental care when facing oral health issues. Choosing to put off dental care when facing oral health problems can lead to worsening symptoms and an increased risk of tooth loss. If you’re looking for a reliable dental team in Salt Lake City, turn to Avenues Dentistry.
Since 1962, our team has provided patients across the area with compassionate, expert care. Whether you’re scheduling your twice-yearly cleanings or trying to remedy oral health problems, we have the training and experience to help you through it all. With our team on your side, you can achieve your best oral health.
If you’d like to schedule an appointment or have any questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
