Holistic, also called Biological or Biocompatible, dentistry is a philosophy that recognizes the teeth and associated oral structures are a part of the whole body. Holistic dentistry's basic premise is that the dentist must consider the mouth, including the teeth, gums and jaws as integrated parts of the whole body system.
Holistic dentistry also relates the impact of toxic materials to dental and physiological health. Mercury, a toxic substance found in dental amalgams, is the most toxic non-radioactive element on earth. Holistic dentists understand it is of utmost
importance to
safely remove these amalgams
and use a replacement that will be biocompatible to the patient. Learn more about holistic dentistry at the
Dental Wellness Institute
, the
Holistic Dental Association
and/or
Dr. Joseph Mercola's website
.
Dr. Andow's Philosophy
Dr. Andow's beliefs are that the health of the teeth, gums, temporo-mandibular joints, head and neck muscles and bite are an integral part of the total health of the body. More and more studies show connections between oral health and other aspects of physical well-being . Successful oral health involves treating each patient as a whole person and Dr. Andow is committed to providing all his patients with improved overall health.
Dr. Andow’s practice is mercury free and mercury safe and is committed to the concepts and practice of biological and health-focused dentistry. His practice has been mercury free for over 34 years and he safely removes mercury amalgams based on the recommendations of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) , the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM) and other prominent biological and holistic dental organizations.
For periodontal and TMJ health, Dr. Andow's office performs
gum disease evaluations
at every teeth cleaning appointment to aid in the diagnosis of early signs of
gum disease
and
TMD disorders
.