Holistic & Biologic Dentistry

What is the holistic and biologic dentistry philosophy?

Biologic or holistic dentistry describes an approach to dental care that promotes your overall health, rather than just treating oral health in isolation. Almost everything that enters your body passes through your mouth and throat, so maintaining a healthy mouth is critical to your whole body’s well-being. At Contemporary Dentistry, we combine our holistic philosophy with comprehensive dental services, ensuring your mouth and body stay healthy. From preventive care to restorative treatments, we work closely with a wide range of professionals to give you the most personalized care possible.

How does the S.M.A.R.T Mercury Amalgam Removal Protocol ensure safe harmful metal fillings removal?

Metal or amalgam fillings used to be the standard for filling cavities in teeth. However, amalgam fillings contain mercury which may slowly secrete from the filling into your body, promoting a toxic body environment. Metal fillings can also expand and cause your tooth to crack and are temperature sensitive. Drs. Belous and Palacio have not done amalgam filings in over 25 years, underlining our commitment to utilizing advanced and mercury-free filling alternatives for optimal patient health.

Our holistic S.M.A.R.T certified dentists use the Mercury Amalgam Removal Protocol. It’s a technique that removes metal fillings without allowing mercury to escape into your body. In addition to removing harmful fillings, we offer composite and biocompatible materials that help preserve teeth’ health and protect the body from toxic substances.

How can Ozone treatment be utilized to keep my mouth clean during treatment?

Our secret weapon in the fight against bacteria is ozone. Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that serves as a disinfectant. We use it to disinfect before and after performing restorations, aid in cavity prevention, and treat old root canals. We also use ozone water to disinfect and irrigate surgical sites and periodontal pockets.
Ozone therapy aligns perfectly with our minimally invasive approach, ensuring that treatments are as gentle as possible while maximizing health benefits.

What is the difference between holistic and traditional dentistry?

Holistic dentistry focuses on the connection between oral health and overall health, using biocompatible materials and minimally invasive techniques.

Are biologic dental materials safe?

Yes, biologic dentistry uses materials that are carefully selected for compatibility with your body and overall health.

What is minimally invasive dentistry?

We always try to be as minimally invasive as possible when we perform restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry procedures. Below are a few of the ways we practice minimally invasive dentistry.
Thinner crowns: Dental materials have improved over the years. With stronger zirconia crowns, we are able to remove much less tooth structure when preparing a tooth for a dental crown.
Remineralization Protocol: We customize a protocol for you to prevent decay and potentially heal areas that are starting to develop cavities.

ICON: this revolutionary product can be used to halt "starter" cavities forming between teeth. It doesn’t require drilling or anesthetic. It’s not always possible to use, but we can determine if you’re a candidate for ICON after x-rays. We discover how deep the cavities are and if ICON will work for your situation.

What is salivary testing?

Salivary testing is a great tool for tailoring your dental care to your personal needs. Your saliva plays a vital role in protecting your oral health and contains vital information about the current state of your oral and overall health. When we suspect a high potential for decay, testing your saliva can tell us:
If you produce the proper flow and rate of saliva
The viscosity and quality of saliva
Buffering capacity
pH of your saliva
This test helps us customize your homecare protocols and remineralization treatments for maximum effectiveness.

How can healing small cavities be done with a minimally invasive approach?

Part of the minimally invasive approach to dentistry is to try remineralization of small cavities when possible. Our body, including teeth, has the potential for healing under the right conditions. The problem is that the process is relatively slow, and the process of destruction can be relatively fast. In order to heal cavities, we need to slow the destruction process (demineralization) and speed up the healing process (remineralization).
Changing your diet is an important factor for doing both parts of the process. Everything that enters the mouth has the potential to contribute to both healing and destruction. We will recommend diet changes that can promote remineralization and prevent plaque and bacterial overgrowth. When indicated, antibacterial treatments can also help protect your teeth and give them time to heal. Saliva flow and quality can be assessed to ensure that you have all of the natural tools to fight decay.
As it is part of a very personalized process, remineralization requires work on your part, as well as dietary modification, lifestyle changes, remineralization techniques, and monitoring in the dental office. By combining dietary changes, antibacterial treatments, and personalized care, we give your teeth the best chance to heal naturally.

What fluoride-free treatment options do you offer for cavity prevention?

We offer fluoride-free treatment options for cavity prevention.
Nano Hydroxyapatite is a form of calcium crystal. It remineralizes your teeth and promotes bone growth, helping to prevent decay.
MI Paste is a sugar-free water-based cream that helps to condition, protect, and rebuild your tooth’s surface. It replenishes calcium and phosphate to remineralize your teeth and prevent decay.

What is biocompatible materials?

Not all areas of decay can be remineralized, so restoration of the teeth can often be required. When we do perform restorations ("fillings"), we carefully consider the materials used and try to reduce exposure to toxic materials. As part of our commitment to holistic dentistry, we are constantly searching for the most biocompatible dental materials on the market, and we also work with patients who have specific needs. If allergies to a material are noted, we are happy to provide you with alternatives. We offer metal-free crowns and implants to ensure the safest and most biocompatible solutions for your smile.

What’s the difference between "mercury-free" and "amalgam removal"?

Mercury-free means we don’t place any mercury-containing materials, such as amalgam fillings. Amalgam removal refers to safely taking out existing metal fillings, which we do using the S.M.A.R.T. protocol to minimize mercury exposure.

What materials do you use in place of metal fillings?

We use BPA-free composites and other biocompatible materials like zirconia, which are safe, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing.

Do you offer biocompatibility testing?

Yes! For patients with sensitivities or health concerns, we offer biocompatibility testing to help choose the safest materials for your dental treatments.

How can you personalize my treatment?

Every smile is unique—so your care should be, too. At Contemporary Dentistry, we personalize treatment through a thorough understanding of your dental history, lifestyle, individual health needs, and preferences. From salivary testing and biocompatibility assessments to dietary counseling and custom remineralization protocols, we develop a one-of-a-kind wellness plan tailored just for you.

Can I receive all dental treatments with a holistic approach?

Yes, most dental treatments can be performed using biologic principles and materials.

Is holistic dentistry right for me?

Holistic care is ideal for patients who are focused on whole-body wellness, have chemical sensitivities, or simply want to take a more natural approach to oral health. We tailor our care to meet your individual health goals and preferences.

If you’re looking for a more health-conscious, personalized approach to dental care, holistic dentistry may be a great fit.