Holistic dentistry
At Tandartspraktijk Slotervaart, we look beyond just your teeth. Naturally, we will perform checks and repairs if necessary, but our approach encompasses more than that. In holistic dentistry, the mouth is considered part of and connected to the rest of the body. Problems in the mouth are often a signal that something is out of balance in the body, and vice versa.
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Image of the teeth showing which meridians are connected to each tooth and molar.
What is holistic dentistry?
Holistic dentistry is a form of oral healthcare that takes the connection between teeth, body and mind seriously. Instead of just treating symptoms such as by filling cavities, we also look for the underlying cause. What caused the cavity? What does your diet, lifestyle and immune system look like?
For us, it’s not just about the ‘what’, but rather the ‘why’. Your teeth, gums, jawbone and saliva tell us a lot about your overall health. In addition, we opt for body-friendly, metal-free materials and (if required) complementary therapies such as (electro) acupuncture NAAV-C, Ozone and vitamin C or omega 3 blood tests. You can read more about these therapies in our frequently asked questions section at the bottom of this page.
The connection between the teeth and the body
At our practice, we think of the teeth as an essential part of the body. Every tooth and molar is connected to other structures and systems within the body. Symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, digestive issues or even joint aches can originate from the mouth and teeth.
Think of, for instance, old amalgam fillings, the position of your jaw or hidden inflammation. Conversely, imbalance in the body can be reflected in the mouth, for example in the form of gum disease or a disrupted microbiome. That is why we are critical and coherent about the materials and treatment methods we use, and we look at underlying causes for your symptoms.
From symptom management to focusing on the root cause
A holistic dentist looks beyond just the tooth that needs attention. Do you have recurrent symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, fatigue or even digestive issues? Chances are there is a connection between your symptoms and your teeth or the materials that were used, such as amalgam fillings.
Instead of treating these symptoms over and over again, we look for the underlying cause. This way, we ensure your teeth are not just repaired, but rather remain permanently healthy. Think of, for instance, replacing amalgam fillings, analysing nutritional deficiencies or improving your oral microbiome.
If you suddenly develop many cavities in a short amount of time while you never had problems before, this may indicate an underlying problem.
Responsible removal of amalgam fillings
Some people still have silver fillings in their mouths, also known as amalgam fillings. These fillings consist of more than 50% mercury. This is a metal known to be harmful to your health. Every day, amalgam releases small amounts of mercury vapour, especially when drinking hot drinks.
At our practice, we do not use amalgam fillings. Do you still have old amalgam fillings and do you want to replace them? We will do so in a safe way. We use the clean-up system which includes a special extractor that is placed around the molar during the drilling process. This allows us to capture approximately 95% of the mercury vapour that is released.
After safe removal, we will replace the old filling with a modern colour-matching composite material. This will look natural, is body-friendly and contains no harmful substances.
Composite or cement fillings
If a tooth needs to be filled, our dentists only use safe, colour-matching materials like composite or cement. These white fillings match the colour of your teeth, making them more aesthetically pleasing than silver-coloured amalgam fillings. A composite filling also does not contain any mercury and is therefore better for your overall health.
And as we are a holistic dental practice, we take it one step further. We opt for composites without harmful plasticisers. Our dentists work with Saremco els, a high-quality composite material that does not contain HEMA, TEGDMA or Bisphenol-A (BPA). Thanks to its excellent bio-compatibility, this material is particularly suitable for people who are sensitive to chemicals.
Our holistic approach
At Tandartspraktijk Slotervaart you can count on:
Nutrition, lifestyle and oral health
Symptoms such as bad breath, bleeding or receding gums may indicate additional health problems such as diabetes, stress, dysbiosis in the gut or hormonal imbalance.
Bleeding gums may indicate a vitamin C deficiency, recurrent inflammation, dysbiosis in the gut or hormonal imbalance. Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and even cognitive disorders can leave their mark in the mouth. At Tandartspraktijk Slotervaart, we take these symptoms seriously.
That is why we combine dentistry with orthomolecular medicine. By focusing on nutrition and natural substances, we help the body eliminate waste, replenish deficiencies and improve your overall health. This strengthens your body, helps prevent disease and ensures a radiant smile from within.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between organic and holistic dentistry?
Organic dentistry focuses on what products are used in your mouth. Holistic dentistry takes it a step further. We not only look at the mouth, we look at the entire system – also known as Whole-Body Dentistry. You could think of organic dentistry as the ‘what’ (the materials) and holistic dentistry as the ‘how’ and ‘why’ (the approach and vision). At our practice, we combine these forms of dentistry.
What materials will be used?
Organic dentistry focuses on using metal-free and body-friendly materials. We avoid mercury (such as amalgam fillings) and opt for materials that put as little strain on the body as possible.
What anaesthetics are used?
We use anaesthetics such as Lignospan® and Scandonest®. These are known for their body-friendly properties. These anaesthetics are suitable for clients who are sensitive to certain substances or who prefer treatment with minimal impact on the body.
What does Tandartspraktijk Slotervaart think about fluoride?
Within the world of dentistry, there are different views on fluoride. We decide whether fluoride is needed per client individually. A healthy diet, proper oral hygiene and few meals often provide sufficient protection. In some patients who suffer from stress or reduced immunity, fluoride can help strengthen the tooth enamel. In normal amounts, fluoride is both safe and effective against cavities.
What complementary therapies do you offer?
We offer complementary therapies such as (electro) acupuncture NAAV-C and ozone therapy. These therapies allow us to connect your oral health to your overall wellbeing. Through measuring points on the hands, feet and face, (electro) acupuncture helps map out disruptions in the body.
We use ozone therapy in a variety of procedures because of the powerful, natural effect it has on bacteria and viruses. Both therapies are offered within an individual treatment plan on a bioenergetic basis, tailored to your situation and health.
Looking to schedule a treatment or need personal advice?
Our practice is located in Amsterdam-Zuid at Louwesweg 6 (in the former Slotervaart Hospital), easily accessible by both public transport and car. You’re very welcome to visit us for a treatment or an introductory consultation.