Healthy Body Dental – A Natural Approach to Dental Care
By William Stone
The incorporation of the holistic approach is gaining momentum among healthcare providers as science confirms the health of the entire body is integral as relates to individual bodily functions. Such cognizant recognition is provided by some of our nation’s leading surgeons, medical doctors, dentists, therapists, researchers, scholars, dietitians and more. The professionals tasked with maintaining our health are often coming together to integrate care to improve patient health. The evidence is irrefutable. A healthy body as a whole leads to longer, healthier lives.
Perhaps one of the most contributing factors to our overall health (but often overlooked by patients and non-medical personnel alike) is our oral health. A direct correlation exists between the state of our oral health and multiple risk factors with certain diseases and other debilitating conditions.
According to the government’s National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) “…the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases is more complex than the presence of virulent microorganisms.” What this means is susceptibility to periodontal disease can differ greatly between patients. This is but one of multiple reasons a specified treatment plan tailored to the overall and integrated approach among health care providers is becoming more necessary than ever.
While a small (but growing) percent of providers may claim a holistic oral approach these days, how many are meritorious, deserving of such a claim? Fortunately, patients are taking a proactive approach, committing to performing the research necessary in finding the proper care provider. For many, their search ends with Dr. Anthony J. Adams DDS PA of Clearwater. A dentist for 40 years and in private practice for 34, Dr. Adams’ expertise and vision in holistic dentistry are but a few reasons he is fielding inquiries from patients around the country. Medical doctors and other healthcare clinicians are seeking his knowledge, devotion and skill in the holistic dental approach. Dr. Adams creates a less toxic oral and systemic environment. Dr. Adams seeks and uses more biocompatible materials with minimally invasive protocols. Dr. Adams is using a more biomimetic approach striving to “first, do no harm.” Dr. Adams can restore function and beauty without as much destruction of the remaining tissue. The approach strives to treat weak, fractured or decayed teeth, sealing and protecting against bacteria invasion and infection without the need for crowns. New technology allows the use of a persons own extracted tooth rather than cadaver or synthetic bone as a matrix for bone graft.
While about half the dentists in the country are practicing mercury-free techniques, only a minute number may be considered mercury-safe dentists. A mercury-free dentist will not use mercury fillings but a mercury-safe dentist like Dr. Adams, adheres to strict protocols, for example, in regard to removal of mercury fillings, mitigating patient risk. Techniques for minimizing the vapors of mercury (so as not to breathe in particles), protective equipment to cover the skin, prevention swallowing mercury-laden saliva and precision-targeted suction are but a few of many methods implemented to protect the patient.
Dr. Adams’ patient approach plays an integral role to his status of being such a sought-after expert in his field. Dr. Adams believes patient education is paramount to achieving optimum health and as such, conducts a confidential interview-type process, taking time to not only listen to patient expectations and answer questions but educate on all aspects of treatment. New patient thorough exams consist of a head and neck evaluation in addition to the latest technology including an intra oral camera, eliminating the need for the traditional poking and prodding. The patient views exactly what the doctor sees as he explains each step of the evaluation, guiding them through various treatment options. Such a vigilant approach allows Dr. Adams to “see it, correct it and watch it.” This carefully cultivated patient-doctor relationship coincides with Dr. Adams and staff’s caring and compassionate approach. This attentive and individualized dynamic is the doctor-patient relationship foundation and distinguishes Dr. Adams as an esteemed practitioner among his patients and colleagues alike.
Dr. Adams is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Holistic Dental Association (HDA), International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT), International Association of Mercury Safe Dentists (IAMSD), International Academy of Biological Dentists (IABDM), Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation and the Holistic Network of Florida.
