What is comprehensive dentistry?

Comprehensive dentistry is a holistic approach to dentistry that focuses on the overall health of the patient. It is also when you treat and consider the mouth as a whole, versus one single tooth at a time. The teeth must work together in harmony and balance to achieve ideal function and aesthetics. The mouth is connected to the rest of the body, and most people forget this. The oral-systemic connection is real. 

Dr. Norton has seen many cases where patients finally treat their periodontal disease and tooth infections, and all of a sudden, a patient’s blood pressure improves. Inflammation in the body is inflammation in the body and it can and will affect other systems.

The foundation of the mouth is the gums and bone. This is similar to the foundation of a house. It must be healthy and solid, or the house will never be safe. Treating the gum and bone health is normally step one on the journey to oral health.

Step two involves the teeth. The teeth would be the house. This involves anything from treating cavities, fixing broken teeth, removing any abscessed teeth, correcting tooth alignment and bite. 

Many patients say they just want to be healthy; they don’t want any cosmetic dental work. Dr. Norton wants you to know that regardless, she will ensure that any dental work we do will be virtually invisible. She wants your teeth to look like you had no work done. Everything should be in harmony and balance. Beautiful, glowing, natural, and healthy is the goal.

Step three involves ongoing maintenance and care to protect your investment. Anything you would do to keep your home beautiful, strong, and long-lasting, you also need to do to your mouth — same idea. If you would clean the gutters, you should floss your teeth. If you pressure-clean your driveway, then you will also get cleanings. If you would replace your roof every 10-15 years, you should also replace old dental work that breaks down. Nothing lasts forever in this life, and routine maintenance is key to preventing future dental issues. Hurricane shutters? Night guard! 

Did you know that patients who have healthy gums and teeth still need professional dental cleanings once every 6 months, and dental x-rays and exams with a dentist at least once a year. Patients with periodontal disease require more frequent cleanings to protect their foundation and prevent further breakdown.