
Nov
Many people wonder, “What is the difference between a biological dentist and a traditional dentist?” To answer that question, one of the first things we need to address is what the word “biologic” means. When we refer to a dental practice as biologic, we aren’t necessarily referring to their services or techniques, but rather their philosophy of oral care. Biological dentistry focuses on whole-body health, beginning with the mouth.
Every dentist understands that the mouth plays a role in overall wellness. There have been many studies citing the connection between gum disease and conditions such as cardiac disease and diabetes. The difference is that many traditional dentists don’t necessarily focus on the long-term effects of dentistry on the body.
Biological dentists provide dentistry services that are best for the body as well as the mouth. Many dentists will call themselves holistic simply because they do not use amalgam fillings. At Maine Center for Dental Medicine, we focus on a biological approach to dentistry which includes:
Mercury safe – Mercury is a known toxin that is risky even in the smallest amount. We do not place fillings that contain mercury and follow safety guidelines of the IAOMT when removing them.
Root canals – This is a controversial procedure. Many traditional dentists recommend root canals as a way to save infected teeth, while biologic practitioners believe that they can only be effective if the entire canal can be cleaned of bacteria, including the dental tubules. The use of ozone therapy in water and gas form can assist in eradicating bacteria to improve the effectiveness of root canals.
Biocompatible materials – What goes into your mouth can impact your entire body. Biological dentists use biocompatible materials including composite resin.
If you live in or around Skowhegan, Maine and would like to learn more about biological dentistry and if it’s right for you, please call us at (207) 808-7355.
A graduate from New York University College of Dentistry, Dr. Mohammed Imam began his practice in Nigeria and moved to the United Kingdom to continue his training in Oral & Maxillofacial Residency.
With over 30 years of expertise Dr. Imam regularly updates himself on modern techniques and methods whilst continuing to invest and perform procedures using the best technology and equipment to ensure his patients receive the best and most bio-compatible oral care possible.
Dr. Imam’s areas of specialty include implant dentistry, TMD and Orofacial pain. He is also SMART certified and a member of the Academy of General Dentistry.
An alumnus of New York University, Dr. Shafiulla Khan brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise gained over his 35 plus years of practicing dentistry. He is well known for his passion to improve his patients’ lives with his service. While being a SMART certified professional, Dr. Khan’s areas of specialty includes Tempro-mandibular Disorders, TMJ therapy and smile make overs. He remains a prestigious member of the International Association of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) amongst many others.