Biological / Whole-Health Based Dentistry (Holistic): What You Need to Know

Biological dentistry — sometimes called holistic, biocompatible, or whole-health dentistry — is an approach that considers the connection between oral health and the rest of the body. It's a growing area of interest for patients who want their dental care to align with a broader philosophy of health and wellbeing.

What is Biological Dentistry?

At its core, biological dentistry is built on the idea that what happens in your mouth doesn't stay in your mouth. Your oral health is closely connected to your overall health, and the materials and techniques used in dental treatment can have wider effects on your body.

Biological dentists typically focus on:

• Using biocompatible materials that are well-tolerated by the body
• Minimising exposure to potentially harmful substances
• Considering the systemic (whole-body) impact of dental treatments
• Taking a preventive, minimally invasive approach wherever possible
• Looking at root causes of dental problems rather than just treating symptoms

Common Concerns Addressed

Mercury-free and mercury-safe dentistry: Biological dentists avoid placing amalgam (silver) fillings, which contain mercury. Many also follow specific safety protocols (such as SMART — Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) when removing existing amalgam fillings, to minimise mercury exposure during the process.

Biocompatibility testing: Some biological dentists offer testing to determine which dental materials are best tolerated by your individual body, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

Fluoride considerations: Biological dentistry often takes a more nuanced view of fluoride use, weighing the benefits against potential concerns and sometimes offering fluoride-free alternatives.

Root canal considerations: Some practitioners in the biological dentistry space question whether root canal treated teeth can harbour bacteria that affect overall health. This is a topic of ongoing debate within the dental profession, and opinions vary. It's worth understanding the different perspectives before making decisions about root canal treatment.

Ozone therapy and laser treatments: Many biological dental practices use ozone therapy and laser technology as less invasive alternatives for treating decay and gum disease.

Connection to Overall Health

Research increasingly supports links between oral health and conditions such as:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Respiratory conditions
• Pregnancy complications
• Autoimmune conditions

Biological dentists tend to be particularly attentive to these connections, often working alongside other healthcare practitioners to support whole-body health.

The Oral Microbiome

One area where biological dentistry has been ahead of the curve is in recognising the importance of the oral microbiome — the community of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in your mouth. Rather than simply trying to kill all bacteria, a whole-health approach aims to support a balanced, healthy oral microbiome.

This might involve:

• Dietary advice to support beneficial bacteria
• Probiotics designed for oral health
• Avoiding unnecessary use of antimicrobial products that disrupt the oral ecosystem

What to Look For in a Biological Dentist

If you're considering a biological dental approach, here are some things to look for:

• Accreditation or training from recognised biological dentistry organisations (such as the IAOMT — International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, or the IABDM — International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine)
• SMART certification for safe amalgam removal
• A willingness to discuss materials, alternatives, and their reasoning openly
• An approach that respects your values while still being grounded in evidence
• A practice that takes a thorough health history, including questions about your overall health and any sensitivities

Questions to Ask

If you're exploring biological dentistry, consider asking:

1. What training or accreditation do you have in biological dentistry?
2. What protocols do you follow for safe amalgam removal?
3. How do you choose which materials to use for my treatment?
4. Do you offer biocompatibility testing?
5. How does your approach differ from conventional dentistry for my specific situation?
6. What evidence supports the approach you're recommending?

A Balanced Perspective

It's worth noting that biological dentistry exists on a spectrum. Some practices are well-grounded in current research and take an evidence-informed approach, while others may make claims that go beyond what the science currently supports.

As with any healthcare decision, it's important to:

• Ask questions and understand the reasoning behind recommendations
• Look for practitioners who can explain the evidence for their approach
• Be cautious of anyone who dismisses all conventional dentistry or makes sweeping claims
• Consider getting perspectives from both biological and conventional dentists

The best dental care — whether biological or conventional — should be patient-centred, evidence-informed, and delivered by a practitioner who takes the time to understand your values, concerns, and health goals.

Whether you're already committed to a biological approach or simply curious about how oral health connects to your overall wellbeing, understanding the principles can help you have more informed conversations with any dentist you see.