Biological Dentistry

Becoming a certified biological dentist requires completion of an education program at an accredited college, followed by passing both state and national board exams and earning certification from the International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM). Additional certifications can also be obtained from the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH) and the Holistic Dental Association (HDA). Shore Smiles Dental, P.C. dentist and founder Dr. Jigar Gandhi is a certified dentist in the New York state based on IABDM standards.

It's called biological dentistry because it takes a holistic approach to oral health care. It considers not just the teeth and gums, but also the underlying systems of the body as they relate to oral health. This approach seeks to support and enhance natural healing processes and avoid treatments that may disrupt them. This approach is attractive to patients looking for long term care and health rather than a short term solution. Another term you may hear often with biological dentistry is integrative dentistry, which focuses on preventative treatment and care as a way to avoid larger issues. Integrative dentistry supports a patient's overall wellbeing and fostering healthy habits as an integral part of care.

The standards of practice within biological dentistry include the use of mercury-free fillings, avoidance of fluoride treatments, and minimally invasive procedures. Other strategies may include ozone therapy, laser therapy, and the use of biocompatible materials such as ceramic or composite resin.

In addition to these standards of practice, holistic/biological dentists must also maintain the regulations and standards set out by their state's Board of Dentistry. This includes adhering to safety protocols for both patient care and environmental protection. 

In biological dentistry, one component of working holistically is working to use biocompatible materials wherever possible.When it comes to fillings, this can translate into the use of tooth-colored composite resin rather than traditional mercury amalgam fillings. Composite resins are a safer and more aesthetically pleasing option as they contain no harmful metals or toxins which could disrupt the body's natural healing processes. They also blend in with the surrounding teeth so that the filling is virtually undetectable.

Root canals are often seen as a last resort option when it comes to treating infected teeth. However, biological dentists may take an alternative approach by utilizing ozone therapy or laser therapies. Ozone is a gas that has natural healing and disinfectant properties, while lasers are used to remove bacteria from the inner portions of the tooth without compromising its structural integrity. Both treatments can help to reduce the risk of infection and ultimately help save the tooth from needing a root canal. If the tooth is severely infected, the best option may of course be extracting the tooth and replacing it with a biocompatible restoration option.

While traditional dentistry focuses primarily on the teeth and gums, biological dentistry considers the patient's full body health, using biocompatible materials and techniques to minimize exposure to toxic substances.

Yes, biological dentistry uses materials that are safe and intended to be more compatible with the body, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and toxicity.

Biological dentistry often includes the use of digital X-rays, laser treatments, and the use of natural remedies and materials for procedures like fillings, root canals, and dental cleanings.