At Health & Beauty Dentistry in West Kelowna, holistic dentist Dr. Shauna Palmer has helped many patients improve their overall health and wellness through her comprehensive dental care services. But we’ve noticed that people who are interested in holistic dentistry still have a lot of questions.
What exactly does “holistic” mean? What to expect? And how can holistic dentistry affect your oral and overall health? In this blog post, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding holistic dental treatments. Take advantage of Dr. Palmer’s valuable insight and experience built over the course of 25+ years of passionately providing her dental services in West Kelowna.
What is holistic dentistry?
Holistic dentistry is an approach to dental care that focuses on providing comprehensive dental services, with the whole-body in mind. This type of dentistry combines traditional methods with natural, non-invasive, and health focused approaches to treating oral/dental issues. Holistic dentists believe that our oral health is connected to our overall well-being, and therefore take a more holistic (whole body) approach to dental care.
Dr. Shauna Palmer’s Holistic Dental Practice in West Kelowna strives to address not only the physical aspects of a patient’s oral health, but also the emotional and spiritual elements.
Dr Shauna Palmer:
“We understand the importance of how the body could respond to potentially hazardous dental treatments, and how we can work together to provide the best possible, healthy, non-toxic dental care.
We believe that each patient deserves individualized care that takes into account their unique needs, lifestyle, and health condition. Our holistic dentistry practice utilizes techniques such as non-toxic fillings, mercury-free dentistry, ozone therapy, laser therapy, as well as nutritional counselling and stress management techniques, to ensure that our patients get the most out of their dental experience. Simply put: Holistic dentistry is much more than just fixing teeth.“
How to find the right holistic dentist for me?
When searching for a holistic dentist, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, consider the type of dental services that you want or need. Are these services provided? Are there more healthy dental services to discover? Look for a holistic dentist that emphasizes preventative care, restorative dentistry with a “let’s try to keep what you have” approach, possible homeopathic remedies, and nutrition counselling. When a dentist provides these additional services, it means that he or she cares about more … than just your teeth.
Additionally, look for a holistic dentist who has a reputation for being open and honest with their patients. An effective holistic dentist should be willing to take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions and discuss any considerations you may have about the dental care you are receiving. A conscious holistic dentist should be able to discuss options that are not only wanted, but also the ones that are very much needed. Ask for the truth in regards to your oral health. Be alert when you receive vague answers only.
Dr. Shauna Palmer, holistic dentist in West Kelowna:
“Our recommendation is: Take the time to research your options. It’s worth it. It will help you to make informed decisions to select the best holistic dentistry fit for your specific preferences.”
What are the benefits of holistic dentistry?
Holistic dentistry helps to improve your overall health by promoting better dental hygiene, having a better understanding of the whole body connection with your oral health, and provides alternative dental treatment options.
Holistic dentistry typically incorporates
• Non-invasive techniques
• Mercury free dental filings
• Improving gum health
• Reducing tooth decay and cavities
• Usage of non-toxic materials only
Dr. Shauna Palmer:
“Holistic dentistry also looks at environmental and lifestyle factors that can contribute to poor dental health. This can include anything from diet suggestions, treating migraines, to improving sleep patterns. Better oral hygiene can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall emotional wellbeing. Overall, holistic dentistry offers many (sometimes unexpected) benefits to its patients. Last but not least: Effective holistic dentistry can avoid costly and painful procedures in the future, and can potentially (this is a big thing!) make you live longer.”
What are some common treatments offered by holistic dentists?
At Dr. Shauna Palmer’s holistic dental practice in Kelowna, we provide treatments that combine traditional dentistry with natural alternatives.
Here are some of the treatments you may encounter at our holistic dental office.
1. Metal-Free Fillings
Traditional silver amalgam fillings contain mercury, which can be toxic to your body. Instead, we provide white, tooth-coloured composite resin fillings, which are free from metals and other toxins.
2. Ozone Therapy
Ozone treatment can be used during nearly any kind of dental procedure, including:
• Cleanings
• Dental surgery
• Decay removal
• Treatment of dental infections, including tooth and gum infections
• TMJ pain and muscle pain
Ozone can also help to desensitize your teeth, which is something many patients struggle with these days.
3. Oral Cancer Screening
Being screened frequently is especially critical for people with high-risk behaviours, lifestyles and pre-existing conditions including: Smoking, high alcohol consumption, bad nutrition habits, extra body weight, human papillomavirus (HPV), a family history of cancer.
According to the North-American Cancer Society, most people diagnosed with oral cancer are aged 55+. Men are twice as much at risk compared to women.
4. Scaling And Root Planing (SRP)
Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar build up on the root surface of the tooth by polishing or scraping away with high-tech equipment like an ultrasonic scaler or hand scaler.
5. Periodontal (Gum) Disease Treatment
Dr. Shauna Palmer is offering Perio Protect® for periodontal gum disease treatment which uses a tray that is similar to a mouthguard and a patented hydrogen peroxide gel. The beneficial “side effects” of using Perio Protect® are: Whiter teeth, fresher breath, better oral health and overall health.
How can I learn more about holistic dentistry?
Dr. Shauna Palmer, holistic dentist Kelowna:
“Each holistic dental office differs. Most holistic dentists will provide you with all of the same dental services that you can expect to get from a traditional dental office, such as fillings and crowns, root canals, regular teeth cleanings, and extractions.
However, a more advanced holistic dentistry practice focuses on more innovative methods of treatment, such as a physiologic approach to orthodontics to open the airways, dental ozone therapy, and safe mercury fillings removal.
Without a doubt, there are always more questions to answer. No problem! Visit our website to learn more about the holistic dental services we offer at Health and Beauty Dentistry, and contact us today for a consultation. I promise that you won’t regret it.”
