There are hundreds of dental materials out there and not all of them are good for everyone. Some patients may notice that their health suffers upon interaction with commonly used dental materials. That’s why holistic dentists like Dr. Bowden often use bio-compatible materials that won’t adversely react with your body chemistry. At Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego, we prioritize your whole-body wellness by treating your mouth as an integral part of your entire physical system, not in isolation. This philosophy has made our practice a destination for health-conscious patients in West Linn and Lake Oswego who are seeking a partner in their systemic wellness journey.

Keep reading to learn more about Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego’s holistic dentistry services. 

What Is Holistic Dentistry?

Holistic dentistry involves the use of alternative methods to treat oral health issues. Holistic dentists believe that overall health is tied to oral health and will utilize general dentistry practices alongside natural treatments and care. They emphasize prevention through good oral hygiene and personalized care while avoiding the use of materials that may harm your health. 

Metals such as gold, silver, and titanium have been an instrumental part of dentistry for many years. However, the use of these common dental metals has been known to cause:

• Allergic reactions
• Mercury poisoning
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Staining/discoloration
• Electric shock
• Excessive enamel damage
• Bodily rejection

Those patients who are very sensitive to metal, or whose health has been severely compromised, will also be more susceptible to these adverse effects. For reasons such as these, some holistic dentists will forgo metal restorations altogether and opt for composite restorations. 

Additionally, many holistic dentists believe that any metal dental restoration, aside from being a possible allergen, will interfere with the normal flow of energy along the body’s meridians. This belief is based on an Eastern philosophy of healing that says that every organ and every part of the body is directly linked to a specific tooth via meridians or energy highways. Holistic dentists, who take into account every aspect of your health, are also not likely to be fond of metal restorations for this reason.  

Metal-Free Restorations

Unfortunately, certain metal dental restorations have been known to contain mercury. Elemental mercury, like the kind used in dental restorations, is a silver-white metal that’s liquid at room temperature. Mercury can be released as toxic vapor in your mouth, causing symptoms ranging in severity from coughing, to vomiting, to bleeding gums. 

The most prevalent material used in metal-free dental restorations is based on the same composite material that’s used for fillings but reinforced with interspersed translucent fibers. When these fibers have been added to a composite, they can be as strong as the traditional porcelain-to-metal crown and serve as an excellent replacement for metal crowns and onlays.

Focus On Overall Health

Holistic dentists like Dr. Bowden focus on every aspect of your health to improve your oral health. Dr. Bowden focuses on encouraging your body to heal on its own, without using materials that can cause problems down the line. At our Lake Oswego office, we work closely with your physicians and naturopaths to customize treatment to improve every facet of your mental and physical health. 

Emphasis on Safety 

Holistic dentists take every step necessary to keep you safe and healthy. Whether we’re removing metallic restorations to replace them with composite alternatives, or doing a routine checkup, all of our staff implement measures to ensure you aren’t exposed to potentially harmful materials. 

Enjoy Better Overall & Oral Health With Holistic Dentistry in Lake Oswego

Rest assured that holistic dentists like Dr. Bowden will always take into account the full picture when treating your oral health. Whether you have a cavity or need your old metal fillings removed, Aesthetic Dentistry of Lake Oswego offers safer alternatives that protect your overall health as well as your smile. Dr. Bowden is proud to offer his years of expertise in holistic dentistry to patients from Lake Oswego and surrounding areas such as Portland, Tualatin, Wilsonville, Beaverton, Tigard, and Sherwood, OR.

If you’re interested in learning more about holistic dentistry, or you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bowden, contact our Lake Oswego office by dialing (503) 675-7300. You can also fill out our contact form, and a friendly team member will get back to you shortly.