Both terms refer to dentistry that:
- Considers oral health as part of whole body health
- Uses biocompatible, non-toxic materials
- Avoids mercury and unnecessary metals
- Takes a preventative, minimally invasive approach
- Recognises mouth-body connections
The naming difference is purely a matter of preference. Some practitioners prefer ‘holistic’ to emphasise the whole-person approach. Others prefer ‘biological’ to highlight the use of biocompatible materials.
Why Different Names Exist
The terms emerged from different perspectives on the same approach:
Holistic Dentistry emphasises the philosophical approach of treating the whole person (Greek ‘holos’ meaning ‘whole’). This term highlights the connection between oral health and overall wellbeing.
Biological Dentistry emphasises the materials and methods used, specifically biocompatible substances that work harmoniously with your body’s biology. This term highlights the scientific basis of material selection.
Both names describe practitioners who reject the idea that dental health exists in isolation from the rest of the body.
What Both Terms Mean in Practice
Regardless of which term a practice uses, you’ll experience the same core approach.
Comprehensive Health Assessment
Your dentist will assess:
- Medical history and current conditions
- Medications and supplements
- Diet, nutrition, and sleep quality
- Stress levels and environmental exposures
With 29% of Australian adults experiencing gingivitis (AIHW, 2024), understanding these factors helps address underlying causes of oral inflammation.
Mercury-Free Materials
Both holistic and biological dentists avoid mercury amalgam fillings. At Sydney Holistic Dental Centre, we use:
- BPA-free composite resins
- Ceramic crowns and inlays
- Zirconia dental implants
- Metal-free bridges and partial dentures
Safe Mercury Removal
When removing existing mercury fillings, both approaches follow the SMART protocol (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) established by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT).
Sydney Holistic Dental Centre is SMART accredited, protecting you, our dental team, and the environment from mercury vapour exposure during removal.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
Both holistic and biological dentistry prioritise:
- Preserving natural tooth structure
- Using ozone therapy where appropriate
- Employing laser dentistry
- Remineralisation strategies for early decay
Other Related Terms You Might Encounter
Integrative Dentistry
This term also describes the same approach. ‘Integrative’ emphasises how this dentistry integrates with other healthcare disciplines. You might see a dentist who calls their practice ‘holistic,’ ‘biological,’ or ‘integrative’, all meaning essentially the same thing.
Natural Dentistry
Some practitioners use ‘natural dentistry’ to highlight their use of natural materials and conservative treatment approaches. The core philosophy aligns with holistic and biological dentistry.
Biocompatible Dentistry
This term specifically emphasises the use of materials that are compatible with your body. It’s often used interchangeably with biological dentistry.
What to Look For in a Holistic or Biological Practice
Regardless of terminology, a genuine holistic or biological practice should offer:
Core Services
- Mercury-free dentistry (no mercury amalgam fillings used)
- Safe mercury removal (SMART protocol followed)
- Biocompatible materials (BPA-free composites, ceramic options)
- Digital X-rays (lower radiation exposure)
- Ozone therapy (natural antimicrobial treatment)
- Metal-free implants (zirconia options available)
Approach Indicators
- Longer initial consultations (60-90 minutes)
- Comprehensive health history intake
- Education-focused communication
- Collaborative treatment planning
- Willingness to explain health connections
- Coordination with other healthcare providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I search for a ‘holistic dentist’ or ‘biological dentist’?
Either search term will yield the same type of practitioner. Use whichever term feels more natural to you. Many practices, including Sydney Holistic Dental Centre, use both terms.
Q: Is one approach more scientific than the other?
No. Both terms describe the same evidence-based approach to dentistry that considers systemic health impacts. The terminology doesn’t indicate different levels of scientific rigour.
Q: Are there dentists who call themselves holistic but aren’t really?
Some practices may use these terms for marketing whilst still using mercury fillings or not taking a comprehensive health approach. Ask specific questions about materials used, mercury removal protocols, and consultation length to verify their practices.
Q: Will the Australian Dental Association recognise these practitioners?
Yes. Holistic and biological dentists are fully qualified dental practitioners registered with the Dental Board of Australia. They maintain the same professional standards as all Australian dentists.
Q: What professional memberships should I look for?
Reputable holistic and biological dentists often belong to organisations such as the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), Holistic Dental Association (HDA), or Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (ACNEM).
The Bottom Line
Holistic dentistry and biological dentistry are the same approach with different names. Both treat oral health as inseparable from overall health. Both use biocompatible materials. Both take a preventative, whole-body perspective.
Don’t get caught up in semantic differences. Instead, focus on finding a qualified practitioner who:
- Uses mercury-free materials
- Takes time for thorough assessments
- Explains health connections clearly
- Respects your health preferences
- Provides evidence-based care
With 89% of Australian adults experiencing dental decay (AIHW, 2024), comprehensive dental care that considers your whole health has never been more important.
Ready to experience holistic dental care? Contact Sydney Holistic Dental Centre: (02) 8188 3718
References:
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2024). Oral health and dental care in Australia. Canberra: AIHW.
