biological dentist Archives - Kentucky Dental Group

Do I Need a Holistic Dentist in Order to Remove my Amalgam Fillings?

Posted on March 21, 2023 by writeradmin.

I am a “woman of a certain age” who is trying to take back control of her health and fitness. My diet is changed. My exercise is in full swing. Now, I want to remove the mouth full of silver/amalgam fillings I have and replace them with the mercury-free white ones. My dentist said that is a no-go. I was talking to a friend about how frustrated I was about that. She suggested I might have better luck with a holistic dentist. I don’t see any listed in my insurance. How do I go about finding one? Is there anything I need to know? Is it even possible to get them removed?

Amelia

Dear Amelia,

woman holding a loose aloe vera plant with dirt

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

Congratulations on all the things you have accomplished! Those are huge and will reap benefits for quite some time. You will not only look younger, you will feel younger as well. I am disappointed your dentist was unwilling to cooperate with you on this. I wish I knew his reasoning. Yes, you can absolutely get these removed, though obviously not from this dentist.

Your friend is correct that you will have more success with a holistic dentist. The reason you do not see them in your insurance is they are not a specialty. Instead, holistic dentistry is a philosophy. They factor in your entire body into your treatment, not just your teeth.

The most important thing you need to know about removing amalgam fillings is there is a special procedure, called a sanitary amalgam removal, that will protect you for the mercury content in the fillings. Any holistic dentist or mercury-free dentist should know this procedure, but I recommend asking them to be certain. They should mention things like a stopper dam, cold water, and vent. If they don’t, look for someone else. You can find either type of dentist by doing an internet search.

Many patients find they feel better after having removed and replaced their silver fillings. I bet you will too.

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

Are Holistic Dentists More Expensive?

Posted on January 14, 2023 by writeradmin.

I’m an extremely health-conscious person, and the idea of holistic dentistry really appeals to me. I am semi-disabled and on a fixed income, however, so the associated costs may become a deciding issue for me. I don’t have dental insurance. Will the holistic dentist have much higher fees as compared to a general dentist?

Thank you,
Bryce

Dear Bryce,

It’s great that you hold your health in high regard. This will serve you well throughout your entire life. Holistic dentistry can certainly become a valuable component of this effort! Let’s answer your important question.

What Holistic Dentists Do

As you know, general dentistry typically centers on the problem at hand. Dentists focus mainly on the oral cavity and areas such as the jaws, head, and neck. A holistic dentist however will look at a patient as a “whole”; taking the health of the patient’s entire body into account and acknowledging the vital relationship between dental health and your entire body’s well-being and condition. They also tend to honor the ability of the body to heal itself. This is why some call it “biological” dentistry.

Material Costs May Be A Factor

By using materials that are non-toxic and natural, your holistic dentist seeks to avoid the introduction of toxins, such as the mercury found in amalgam fillings, to your system. Some of the biocompatible materials used instead are more expensive than their potentially harmful counterparts.

A Holistic Approach

Some holistic dentists use techniques that traditional dentists do not, which may increase the overall patient portion. Craniosacral and/or ozone therapies are both effective methodologies that assist healing, and these may incur costs that include education, training, licensure/certifications, practitioners, staff, and necessary materials.

Will It Be More Expensive?

As a whole, these added benefits may increase the possibility of higher costs to patients compared to traditional dentistry, but the truth is each dentist sets their own fees and some holistic dentists will be more and some will not. It sounds as if a holistic approach would surely align with your own values, so don’t hesitate to consult with a dentist who follows this philosophy. Your mouth, mind, and body will all thank you.

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

My Holistic Dentist is Making Mistakes

Posted on November 15, 2022 by writeradmin.

There is only one truly holistic dentist in my town so I have tried my best to stick it out with her, but I’m having a bit of trouble at this point and need some advice. I wanted to replace a mercury laden filling as well as a crown that had a metal base. She used this new CAD/CAM technology that was supposed to make the crown right while I am in the office. She mentioned to me that the crown was larger than she expected when she removed it. I didn’t think anything about that at the time. I was a little surprised when she bonded the crown on without even trying to fit it. It felt weird after that, like it was too bulky. She sanded it down a bit and sent me home. That side of my mouth was hurting a ton whenever I chewed so I went back just a week later. She said it was because the molar in front of the new crown was hitting the other teeth too hard. That confused me because that had never happened before, so why now? She sanded that one down and then said my bite was off and the only thing left to do what see an orthodontist. How is that even possible from getting a dental crown? I want a holistic dentist, but at this point I’m beginning to wonder if I should switch dentists. But, in that case, how do switch out my mercury fillings?

Penny

Dear Penny,

What an awful experience. I can assure you that it should not have gone that way, especially with a CEREC crown, which is what the CAD/CAM technology provides. This dentist is truly clueless about how to use the technology. She is also clueless about how a crown should fit.

At this point whatever she had done has thrown off your bite so much that you need to get the damage repaired. I would not just ask for a refund, but for her to pay to have this repaired. She caused damage and needs to repair it.

After your bite is repaired and healthy, you can still get the amalgam fillings replaced. You don’t have to have to see a holistic dentist in order to get switch them out for white composite fillings.

I would look for a mercury-free dentist to switch them out. They will have the skills and materials to do it safely.

If your current dentist doesn’t want to take responsibility, I’m fairly confident if you mentioned a malpractice suit she would change her mind. If she doesn’t, her insurance will do it for her.

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

Titanium Allergy

Posted on February 10, 2022 by writeradmin.

Can you help me? I have recently been diagnosed with a titanium allergy. I have had three crowns placed and have had a dull ache since then. Is it possible I have a titanium post and that is contributing to the dull ache? When my dentist looked at it he said everything looks fine. But, it doesn’t feel fine. I don’t know what to do?

Adina

Dear Adina,

I’m sorry about your titanium allergy. It is a rare allergy (<4%) and too many dentists just write off allergies and sensitivities altogether. Generally, a post is not placed in a crown unless you have had a root canal treatment. This is to help retain the build-up material that is used to retain the crown, sort of like beams and cement in a home. If these crowns are from a root canal treatment, I would start by asking your dentist what material your post was made from. There should be a record in your file listing what type of post was used.

It used to be that the posts were all pretty much stainless steel, but between 10-20% of people have an allergy to nickel, which is in stainless steel. Because of that, many dentists switched to using titanium posts because they are much more biocompatible.

If your post is made from titanium, then yes, that could be contributing to your dull ache. Other things for your dentist to look into are the occlusion of this crown and also whether your crown is made from any metal. If you find it hard to get your dentist to take this seriously then you can go to a holistic dentist. They are much more open to considering the whole body and not just the teeth.

One other thing. If you ever end up needing a tooth replacement and want to get a dental implant, there are now options to the titanium implants. Tell your dentist you want the zirconia implants. These are metal-free.

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

Dental Implants with a Metal Allergy

Posted on October 17, 2021 by writeradmin.

I am starting to get up there in years. Recently, I have lost a couple of back teeth. I live in terror of losing a front tooth. I don’t want to be one of those people who wears dentures. The problem I face is that I have some serious metal allergies. After some testing, it turns out I am allergic to nickel, cobalt, and tin. Is there any chance I could still have a dental implant? Do they make metal-free dental implants?

Chauncie

Dear Chauncie,

I am sorry about your recent tooth loss. That is always discouraging. I have good news for you. In fact, double good news for you. First, we’ll start with traditional dental implants. These are made from titanium. Not only was it not listed on your allergies, but it is one of the most bio-compatible metals around. It has been used for decades in prosthetics. Not just with dental implants, but also things like hip replacements. There is very little chance you would have any reaction to these. However, you could always get tested specifically for titanium just to be certain.

The second bit of good news is your second option. There are metal-free dental implants these days. Now, there is a zirconia option. This is very strong and will serve you well if you go that way. The only obstacle you may face is that not as many dentists offer this option. It is not because it is inferior, but more because we do not have as much data on its longevity. That is because they have not been around as long.

If you decide to go with the metal-free option, you may have to do some searching. I would start by looking for a holistic dentist. They are much more willing to work around patient’s allergies. Just be certain they also have post-doctoral training in dental implants. That is very importnat.

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

Is the Palladium in my Dental Crown Toxic?

Posted on 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

Posted on 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.

Can a Holistic Dentist Heal Cavities?

Posted on 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

Posted on 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

Posted on 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.