Holistic Dentist Archives - Kentucky Dental Group

Is the Palladium in my Dental Crown Toxic?

June 9, 2021 by writeradmin

My dentist fit me with three dental crowns. I later found out that they are Encore crowns which are 40% palladium. I was surprised to hear that. Given that palladium is toxic, would I be wise to remove these crowns and get zirconia instead, which is much more inert?

Cassie

Dear Cassie,

I was surprised by your comment about palladium. As someone who practices holistic dentistry, Dr. Weaver strives to keep abreast of issues like this. It is frustrating that so many dentists blow off the comcept of metal sensitivities because it is a real issue. However, we need to make sure our information is current and accurate.

After doing some research as a result of your question, I’ve found two main sources that people are quoting they received the information. The first is a Hollywood movie. The second is a natural news site. Let’s start with the movie. In Iron Man 2, Tony Stark has an arc reactor in his chest that has a palladium core. In the movie, the paladium is poisoning his blood. This is not a real world experience. Palladium is a noble metal, part of the platinum family, and highly biocompatible.

Now for the natural news source. They wrote that palladium is a highly toxic heavy metal. This is actually false. It is a light, precious metal. For the life of me I cannot figure out where they are getting their information. I did notice they have a link where readers can request a hair analysis for the low price of $325.00. That does give a motivation for the misinformation. I hate to think of how many people are being swindled by them.

I don’t see any reason to change your dental crowns. However, if you do want to, zirconia is metal-free and a great choice. Honestly, though, I think switching is a waste of your money.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Dentist Insists on Titanium Implants

May 5, 2021 by writeradmin

I want to get dental implants but I would like the zirconia ones. It is important to me that I don’t put metal in my body. However, my dentist says the titanium ones are better. Is that true?

Monica

Dear Monica,

There is a growing availability of metal free dental care.

I would not say that the titanium are better. It is more that they have been around longer and therefore we have more data on their longevity and potential side effects. There are some dentists that prefer to stick with what they know. You will be able to find a dentist who offers the zirconia. I would do an internet search for either a metal free dentist or a holistic dentist. Either one of them will be willing to give you zirconia implants.

The important thing will be that you find a dentist who has dental implant training. It won’t matter which kind you have if the procedure fails. You’ll want to be certain they have some post-doctoral training in placing implants.

I am not trying to sway you either way with which implants to use, but I wanted to clear a couple of things up that I hope will put your mind at ease. The first is about metal and your body. Our body naturally has metal in it. One major example is the iron you find in our blood. In fact, that is so important that is you don’t have enough iron, it can cause serious negative health effects, including heart failure.

As for titanium, it is one of the most biocompatible metals there are. We’ve been using it for decades for prosthetics. Not just dental implants, but things like hip replacements. It is very rare for someone to have a reaction to titanium.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

A Pulp Cap to Avoid a Root Canal Treatment

November 27, 2020 by writeradmin

While trying to deal with a cavity, some pulp was exposed. We decided to do a pulp cap to try and avoid a root canal treatment. The cavity wasn’t completely removed. The area of exposure was lined with calcium hydroxide then a glass ionomer was placed on top of the cavity. Then, they placed an amalgam filling. Here are my questions:
1. Is there a way to know that the procedure is successful and I don’t need a root canal treatment?
2. Are there symptoms I should look out for if not?

Thank you for your help.
Miranda

Dear Miranda,

Usually, if a pulp cap was going to fail, you would know it right away. However, the way yours was done, leaves me with some concerns. I’ll start by describing the right way to do it. When done correctly, they have a high probability of success. You’ll notice the differences.

The Correct Pulp Cap Procedure

The first step is to make certain that all the decay is completely removed. Decay contains massive bacteria. Tooth infections occur when that bacteria gets into the pulp of the tooth. If this decay continues to grow, it will infect the pulp. This is especially true when the filling is an amalgam filling.

Second, while most of the materials used were good, such as the calcium hydroxide and the glass ionomer, the amalgam filling was a bad idea. The ideal filling would have been to use composite filling material. This is because composite fillings, which are bonded directly to the tooth, actually seal the area. This prevents micronutrients and bacteria from getting in and around the tooth. That helps to prevent further decay and infection. Amalgam fillings leave the tooth vulnerable.

My advice would be, unless there are signs of infection (such as pain and/or fever), to give it a year and then have your dentist do an x-ray to see if the tooth is healty. If it is not, then you should go ahead and get the root canal treatment. When you do, you can either replace the filling or get a dental crown. If you do replace the dental filling, make sure you replace it with a composite filling this time.

Safely Removing Amalgam Fillings

It is important when you have amalgam fillings that you remove them safely. The main ingredient in amalgam fillings is actually mercury, a known toxin. Removing them incorrectly can actually expose you to more mercury than is safe for you. There is a sanitary amalgam removal. Not all dentists know how to do it. If you want it done correctly, you either need to visit a mercury-free dentist or a holistic dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

White Fillings for Children

October 7, 2020 by writeradmin

My son needs a filling. I don’t want a silver filling in his mouth because of the mercury content. But, my pediatric dentist said that children can’t have them. I don’t really believe him because I know other children that have had the white fillings. Why would he lie?

Caitlyn

Dear Caitlyn,

Many general dentists will see entire families

It may not be that he lied, as much as he has trouble doing composite fillings on children. While it can be done, it is a tad more difficult with children. This is because composite fillings have to stay completely dry during the process. With children, who like to wiggle and move their tongues, that can seem impossible. But, like I said earlier, it can be done.

Don’t push your current pediatric dentist into doing it. This procedure is a totally different method than is used for the amalgam (silver) fillings. If he’s hesitating, he’s not ready. Instead, I would go to a general dentist who enjoys treating children. Ideally, you’d want one who considers themselves a mercury-free dentist or even a holistic dentist. Both of them will be very experienced with composite fillings. In fact, it will be all they place.

General dentists are still qualified to work with children. They all do a pediatric rotation and have the skills necessary. They just didn’t want to only treat children. However, not all dentists who are willing to work with children actually enjoy working with children. You want a dentist who enjoys them because that will create a more positive experience for your child.

So how do you know which dentists actually LIKE children? One good hint is the age at which they are willing to begin treating them. If they’re willing to work with toddlers, they enjoy children. If they want to wait until your child is around seven or eight years old, I’d look for someone else.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Metal-Free Crowns

August 22, 2020 by writeradmin

I am someone who prefers natural medicine. I particularly try to avoid both metal and lithium because of thyroid issues I struggle with. At the moment, I need a dental crown but my dentist said the all-porcelain ones aren’t strong enough for my back teeth. I’m having trouble finding information on other options and he seems to think I’m a bit of a Kook for being worried about how my dental work will affect my thyroid. Do you have any advice for me? There has to be something. I’m not the only person with thyroid problems.

Miranda

Dear Miranda,

There is a growting availability of metal free dental care.

The first thing I am going to say is that you are not with the right dentist for your desired type of dental and health care. You will be better served with a natural or holistic dentist. This isn’t a specialty. Rather, it is a philosophy of treatment where the dentist considers the patient’s whole body and not just their teeth. They are much more willing to work with patients in your situation.

Getting a Metal Free Crown

While your dentist is correct that all-porcelain crowns aren’t strong enough for the biting forces we deal with on our back teeth, the good news is you do have an alternative. Given your particular desires, I recommend you get a zirconia crown. Zirconia is so strong, it has been dubbed ceramic steel. It will hold up on your back teeth.

If your crown were on your front teeth, ether an all-porcelain crown or a zirconia crown will work. Another difference with front teeth is the need to whiten your teeth first. The color on the crown is permanent once it is made. If you are pleased with the color of your teeth and don’t plan on changing it, then you are good to go. However, if you are even considering teeth whitening, then it is more affordable to get it done before you have your crown made. If you wait, which is totally up to you, it will mean redoing the crown after you whiten your teeth. Whitening before means your crown can be made the permanent color you want.

The key here is for you to find a dentist who shares your philosophy. This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Can a Holistic Dentist Heal Cavities?

May 15, 2020 by writeradmin

Just before COVID-19 started, by regular dentist, who is not a holistic dentist, diagnosed a small cavity. I asked if it was possible to try to heal it since I’ve heard that’s possible when they’re small. He totally dismissed me and got an attitude, telling me that I was eventually going to lose the tooth if I didn’t get it taken care of. Well, now I can’t even go into the office and get it done because this is apparently not an emergency but I’m thinking about revisiting my idea that maybe I could be using my time to try to heal the cavity since I really can’t do anything else with it right now anyway. Is there a chance a holistic dentist could help with this? Or is there maybe something I could be trying at home in the meantime?

Thanks,

Greg

Dear Greg,

Decay in an opportunity preditor. If a tooth is healthy it won’t set in. Instead, it looks for weak spots. If a tooth is in that demineralized stage, it is still possible to mineralize the tooth. At this point in dental care, we aren’t able to regrow enamel on teeth with decay. Though, ongoing research is promising.

A Holistic Dentist Can’t Heal a Cavity, but…

As long as you don’t have a dental emergency, there is no harm in trying to remineralize the tooth. This is not a guarantee, but it is better than doing nothing.

The first thing I’d suggest is to make sure you are brushing after every meal. I know that most people only brush twice a day, but that extra cleaning and fluoride will help your body use the decay fighting minerals in your saliva more efficiently. Use a fluoridated toothpaste. It would be okay to call your dentist and ask if some additional supplements will help as well. If your dentist doesn’t want to bother and just wants to wait until the decay advances, you can call a holistic dentist in your area and see if they are willing to be more proactive.

Secondly, be careful of your diet. Make sure you are only drinking water throughout your day. Other drinks contain acids and sugars that can eat away at your enamel. The healthier you eat, the better chance you have of fighting the decay as well.

Don’t Wait if Infection Develops

Monitor the tooth. If it starts hurting or showing signs of infection, such as a pimple on your gums, treatment shouldn’t be delayed. Tooth infections are considered dental emergencies. You will be able to be seen even during the COVID-19 quarantine.

Don’t put that off. Dental infections can spread. Your jaw is close to your heart, lungs, and brain. Delaying treatment can turn a dental infection into a life-threatening one.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Metal Fillings and Immune Systems

April 30, 2020 by writeradmin

Like everyone else, I’m sure, I’m looking for ways to boost my immune system. I’m in my late 60s and am worried that, if I catch coronavirus, it could be quite serious for me. I’ve never had any issues with them, but I do have a number of metal fillings done up decades ago. I’ve read that they can sometimes impact the immune system though. I’m wondering if maybe I should see a holistic dentist about having mine replaced just as an added precaution. If so, how should I go about making the arrangements?

Thank you,

Bethany

Dear Bethany,

As you’re probably well aware, the American Dental Association (ADA) stands by the safety of amalgam fillings, and their research is backed up by a number of organizations. However, there is some experimental and clinical data that suggest that certain susceptible groups of people may indeed experience systemic adverse immunological reactions when amalgam fillings are introduced into the body. Additional studies noted “small transient effects” in children roughly 5-7 days after teeth were restored with amalgam fillings as well.

Though, everyone’s body is different and responds in a variety of ways to materials and even treatments. It is always a good idea to evaluate what you introduce into your body. That’s especially true for those who are already immuno-compromised.

Composite is the Choice Material Now Regardless

The reality is, many offices don’t use amalgam at all anymore, and it’s not only over worries of health concerns. The white fillings, known as composites, bond directly to the tooth. Amalgam fillings don’t. The dentist has to create a retention notch to ensure they stay in place. That in mind, composites are simply more conservative and preserve more of the natural tooth structure. They’re also more aesthetically pleasing. The latter tends to be why people request to have their old amalgam fillings removed rather than to boost their immune systems, but in any case, it’s a common request.

A Holistic Dentist Can Help You

One thing which will be a concern is the removal process. Amalgam fillings contain a high amount of mercury in them. While the ADA insists they’re safe and they very well can be, the removal process needs to be done in a way that prevents you from inhaling any mercury or mercury vapors.

Holistic dentists know this procedure, called a sanitary amalgam removal. Despite what the studies show about the safety of amalgam fillings, many patients have reported feeling better after having them removed. As long as you go to a dentist who is able to use this protective procedure, I’d say go for it.

This blog is sponsored by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Dentist Wants to Extract Tooth Prematurely

March 23, 2020 by writeradmin

I have pain in a molar and went to see a holistic dentist. He did some x-rays and said there doesn’t seem to be much of the canal left only calcification. He’s giving me antibiotics and if that doesn’t work he wants to extract the tooth. I’m not too crazy about that. Have you heard of this before? Is there another alternative?

Casey

Dear Casey,

When a tooth is infected, it needs a root canal treatment.

I want to hit the pause button here because I’m concerned regarding what I’m hearing. I’m worried your dentist doesn’t understand some things. There are good and bad medical practitioners in every field, including dentistry. It sounds like your holistic dentist is at best confused.

Let’s start with the antibiotics. If you have a tooth infection, these will not cure it. When antibiotics are used for dental infections it is to hold the infection at bay until a root canal treatment can be done. What will happen is the pain will go away as you’re taking the antibiotics. However, once they’re done, the infection will blow up again. Until the infected pulp is physically removed it will spread.

Let’s say, however, the antibiotics don’t help at all, not even when you’re taking them. That means an infection isn’t the cause of your pain. This means your dentist will be extracting a tooth without a true diagnosis.

Just because your dentist can’t see the canal well on the x-ray doesn’t mean it is not there. I’m going to recommend you get a second opinion, if possible from an endodontist.

As for the calcification, as we age, our canals tend to shrink. Plus, if a tooth is irritated, it will build up dentin on the insides of the pulp chamber. In the more extreme cases, it will block the canals. However, an endodontist will have special tools to get through the calcified parts.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Holistic Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Finding a Dentist Who Understand Allergies

November 7, 2019 by writeradmin

I was having a lot of problems with my health and after years of tests with no answers, I finally gave up on doctors and went to have special allergy testing done. It turns out I’m allergic to many metals and even some dental materials. The list includes I know I have allergies to dental cement, formaldehyde, cobalt, nickel, chromium, titanium, and many chemicals. How will I find a dentist who specializes in patients with these type of allergies?

Karyn

Dear Karyn,

You have been through a great deal. I know how frustrating it can be when you can’t get to the bottom of why you don’t feel well. You’ve really hung in there with great perseverance. While you won’t find a dentist who understands those specific types of allergies, I do have a solution for you.

What you need is a dentist who is willing to be creative and work around your dental allergies and metal sensitivities. You can often find this if you look for what is known as a biological dentist or holistic dentist. They work with your body and will be more willing to adapt the procedures you need to your body’s limitations.

Sanitary Amalgam Removal

Given your multiple allergies, one thing you may want to consider is removing any amalgam (silver) fillings. However, you’ll want the holistic dentist to do this. There is a special procedure, known as a sanitary amalgam removal, which will protect you from inhaling any of the mercury during the removal process. Then, your dentist can replace those with mercury-free composite fillings.

Titanium Allergies

Titanium is a rare allergy. The one area that could affect you in dental care is if you ever have to replace a tooth. Dental implants are the best tooth-replacement option. Most dentists use the traditional titanium dental implants. However, given you are allergic to them, you will instead need to find a dentist who will use the zirconia implants. These are strong enough, but they have been in use for less time so not all dentists are using them yet. Look for a metal-free dentist in that case. Hopefully, you’ll never have to replace a tooth, but if it happens I wanted you aware of your options.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.

Why Is My Holistic Dentist Suggesting a Root Canal Treatment?

August 30, 2019 by writeradmin

I specifically choose a holistic dentist because I wanted to do things naturally. Yet, when I got a toothache, he is suggesting a root canal treatment. Can’t I just treat the infection with oils?

Brianna

Dear Brianna,

woman holding a loose aloe vera plant with dirt

A holistic dentist factors in the health of your whole body.

It’s great that you try to do things in a natural and healthy way for your body. Believe it or not, that’s what your holistic dentist is trying to do as well. Dental infections are a little different from other types of infections. Oils won’t work. Antibiotics won’t even work. The infection has to be physically removed by a dentist, hence the root canal treatment.

This is because the infection causes the pulp of the tooth to die. When that happens, there is no blood flow left which doesn’t allow any medication to reach the infection. That is why the dentist has to remove the infection with a root canal treatment. This completely removes the infection while enabling you to save your tooth.

Alternative to a Root Canal Treatment

The only real alternative to a root canal treatment, once a tooth is infected, is to extract the tooth. This will require you to also get the tooth replaced. Even if the tooth isn’t visible when you smile, you’ll need to replace it. If you don’t, the other teeth will drift and tip into the empty space. This causes bite problems which can lead to more serious issues, such as TMJ Disorder.

If you decide to go this route, you’ll want a good tooth replacement option. The top two options are a dental implant or a dental bridge. Both of these are invasive. The implant requires surgery. The bridge requires you to grind down the two adjacent teeth in order for them to have dental crowns.

Never Put Off Treatment for a Tooth Infection

I don’t want you to put off treatment. I know it’s tempting when you are facing a treatment you aren’t keen on. But, tooth infections are dental emergencies. The infection will continue to spread. Some spread rapidly and become life-threatening.

This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.