by Carey O’Rielly, DDS

Use of Bio-Compatible Dental Materials:

Let’s face it, we live in a toxic world; so you don’t want to add to your toxic load or create more stress for your immune system through your dentistry.Dr. O’Rielly has spent years working with sensitive patients and has studied literally hundreds of blood tests to find the most durable, safest and “user friendly” materials available today.

Studies indicate that at some point at least 20% of dental patients develop sensitivity to dental material. Dr. O’Rielly has eliminated the frequent offenders, especially in the area of metals. However some patients have particular sensitivity issues. At Integrative Dentistry we can offer you a blood test to ascertain which of the hundreds of available dental materials are suitable for you.Cosmetic Bonding for Preservation of Tooth Structure

We have found that metal fillingsthat are 15-20 years old create cracks in your teeth that eventually grow to become fractures. It is not uncommon to have old fillings stay intact while the tooth structure crumbles around it. In addition to metal fillings weakening tooth structure, they stain the underlying tooth black. It is best to remove old fillings before the tooth breaks, risking root canals or crowns and caps.

Because bonding techniques allow us to hold the tooth together rather than wedge it apart, caps or crowns are often unnecessary. This strengthening through bonding allows us to be more conservative and remove less tooth structure, creating inlays or onlays instead. There are many durable, tooth-colored filling materials available today that support the tooth and look natural and beautiful.

Safe Removal of Metal Fillings:

At  Integrative Dental Practice we follow a strict protocol whenever metal fillings need to be replaced. This includes tooth isolation so that no metal particles find their way into your mouth or, worse yet, are swallowed. We also provide clean air and oxygen for you to breathe, special filtration and a custom high speed vacuum unit. Dr. O’Rielly feels strongly that all metal fillings need to be removed with the above precautions.

Non-Painful and Natural Treatment of Gum Diseases 

Dr. O’Rielly’s approach to gum disease is to eliminate inflammation by keeping bacteria out of pockets where the gums have pulled away from the teeth. He addresses this with specific hygiene aids and instruction, among them in-office treatments with a natural, anti-bacterial gel and nutritional supplements. This supports a home hygiene program that the patient follows consistently as the gums heal. Dr. O’Rielly has been successful in guiding patients through the process of healing 6mm pockets back to a healthy 2-3 mm. 

Research shows that the bacteria causing periodontal (gum) disease is not only found in the mouth. When a patient has gum disease, that same bacteria will also be present in the blood stream and gum disease has been associated with a higher incidence of heart disease. The mouth is the gateway to the body and a healthy mouth is necessary for a healthy body. 

Prevention and Effective Treatment of Bite Problems and TMJ Problems 

The patient’s bite alignment must always be factored into the total picture of dental treatment, along with specific concerns like jaw joint problems (TMJ). Bite assessment is important for treatment, not just for the head and jaw but structurally for the body as a whole. For this reason we coordinate visits for bite balancing with chiropractic adjustments available from one of our local colleagues.

Additional measures for bite correction can include use of splints made with state of the art materials, or muscular adjustments within the mouth. Your bite must be at its best for the successful outcome to your dental treatment: a relaxed and happy smile. 

Nutritional Counseling and Homeopathic Support 

An alkaline, sugar-free diet is an important adjunct to ongoing, preventive oral health. It is well known that sugar contributes to tooth decay. This is because the bacteria that cause decay easily feed and grow on intake of sugar. An alkaline diet is also helpful in that the stresses of our world tend to cause acidity, which affects the health of both teeth and gums. An alkaline diet keeps the ph of saliva at the proper balance so that the digestive processes beginning with the mouth will function optimally. Following some simple dietary guidelines can minimize and may actually eliminate sugar cravings. 

Homeopathics are a powerful support to oral health that can be used in different ways. One way that we use them in our practice is to help neutralize the effects of radiation from dental Xrays. We also offer a homeopathic remedy that helps to calm anxiety before a dental procedure, as well as a gel that can be used topically after procedures to disperse the effects of anesthetics and promote healing.

Education for Eliminating Toxicity from Your Dental Treatment, Your Home, Your Environment and Your Life! 

Today limiting the damage caused by toxicity is a hidden determinant to healthy living. Dr. O’Rielly believes that limiting toxicity is an important component of proper nutrition. Your body has the wisdom to convert whatever you feed it into nutrients it can use, but over time the response to relentless, cumulative toxicity is the breakdown of the immune system and the organs of the body.

It is important for patients to know about the ingredients to avoid in toothpaste and mouthwash. We offer handouts and provide organic, effective, good-tasting alternatives for home dental care as a service of our practice. This education extends to the many ways that toxic ingredients can be found in personal care and cleaning products and even food and medicine. Learning which ingredients are best avoided and taking the time to read labels are two ways that we can empower ourselves and our families to strive for good oral health and overall well being. This orientation to balanced living is another one of the many reasons why your holistic dentist provides an important service to your community.