Dental Health
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What is Dental Health?
Dental health is the overall well-being and maintenance of the teeth, gums, and other structures in the mouth. It involves regular habits such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist for cleanings and exams. However, recent research has also highlighted the importance of addressing issues such as cavitations, root canals, and mercury fillings that may not be immediately visible during regular checkups. Proper dental health is essential for maintaining overall physical health and well-being.
What Is A Cavitation?
A cavitation is a type of oral lesion that occurs in the jaw bone. It is characterized by an area of unhealed bone and pockets of infected tissue and gangrene. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as impacted wisdom teeth, incompletely extracted teeth, failed root canals, failed dental implants, and devitalized teeth from deep fillings, crowns, or physical trauma. The primary cause of cavitations is failing to remove all of the periodontal ligaments when extracting a tooth. These remaining pieces act as a barrier to the formation of new blood vessels and the regrowth of new bone. Most people with cavitations do not experience noticeable symptoms. However, if left untreated, cavitations can lead to systemic infections that may seem unrelated to the mouth. Studies have also linked cavitations to dental work such as root canals and the onset of various health symptoms such as fatigue, pain, headaches, and Lyme disease.
Why Are Root Canals Bad?
Root canals are a common dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth by removing the infected or damaged pulp (the living tissue inside the tooth) and replacing it with a filling. However, some studies have shown that root canals may not be as effective as initially thought, and can actually be harmful in the long term. The procedure of removing the pulp and filling the tooth cuts off the blood supply, which can lead to the development of an infection from the bacteria-infected tissues left behind. The roots of the teeth have many tubules that act as a highway for friendly microbes to come and go, but without oxygen, these friendly organisms can morph into highly toxic pathogens that hide in the tubules, making them safe from sterilization and the body's own immune defenses. Also, in the case of a root canal, bacteria may be given the opportunity to flush into the bloodstream every time the person bites down.
Why Are Mercury Fillings Bad?
Mercury fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, are a type of dental filling made of a mixture of metals that include mercury. While they have been traditionally used as a filling material, they have been found to have some potential health risks. The main concern with mercury fillings is that the mercury can break down and be absorbed by the body. Mercury is lipophilic, meaning it concentrates in fatty tissues, particularly in the brain. This can cause blood levels to measure inaccurately. Heavy metal toxicity can result from this exposure. Symptoms and diseases caused by this exposure can be varied and can mimic many other conditions. Studies have also shown that the vapor released from these fillings can be inhaled and can cause potential health risks such as neurological and kidney problems.
How Are Dental Issues Treated?
Dental issues are treated by a dentist, and the treatment plan is customized to best address the specific needs of the patient. Depending on the issue, a variety of treatment options may be used. Ananta Health works with a biological dentist, as well as performing BioScan SRT Testing, ionic foot baths, supplements, traditional Chinese medicine, and other treatments. In cases of cavitations, root canals and mercury fillings, it is best to see a biological dentist who can assist with safe removal of these issues and diagnose them with 3-D x-rays. It is also important to work with a biological dentist who can help prepare the body before and after any procedures. This can be done with supplements, detoxification, and diet changes.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Dental Health?
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, called acupoints, to relieve pain and promote healing. In terms of dental health, acupuncture can help in several ways:
- Regulating the immune system: Acupuncture can help regulate the immune system, which can help prevent or reduce the severity of dental infections.
- Decreasing inflammation: Acupuncture can decrease inflammation throughout the body, including in the mouth, which can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with dental issues.
- Treating TMJ disorders: Acupuncture can be used to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms.
- Reducing stress and anxiety: Acupuncture can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to dental issues such as teeth grinding and jaw clenching. By reducing these symptoms, acupuncture can help improve overall oral health.
It is important to note that acupuncture should always be used in conjunction with traditional dental treatments and under the supervision of a licensed acupuncturist and dentist.
(1) Mercola, J. (2012, February 18). Dangers of Root Canaled Teeth. Retrieved from http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/02/18/dangers-of-root-canaled-teeth.aspx.
(2) Williams, L. (2012 January 31). Appropriate Pre- and Post- Extraction Protocols When Surgical Intervention is Necessary. Retrieved from http://www.westonaprice.org/holistic-healthcare/dental-cavitation-surgery/.
(3) Lyttle, H.A., Bowden, G.H. (1993, September 9). The Resistance and Adaptation of Selected Oral Bacteria to Mercury and its Impact on their Growth. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7689600.