Biological Dentistry

About Biological Dentistry

In addition to Dr. My’s pediatric specialty training, she incorporates her knowledge of Biological Dentistry in her practice. Biological dentistry focuses on the connection between oral health and overall health. It recognizes the mouth is an important part of the body and dental procedures and materials can impact a person's overall health. Biological dentists use a more natural approach to dental care, avoiding the use of materials that can be harmful to the body, such as mercury in dental fillings. Biological dentists also focus on preventing dental problems by promoting good nutrition, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding harmful substances. Overall, the goal of biological dentistry is to provide dental care that supports the body's natural healing process and promotes overall health and well-being.

Oral Bacteria Testing

Have you ever wondered why you get cavities while your siblings never seem to get them? Or why one child can eat as much sugar as humanly possible and never get a cavity, while the other child with good hygiene and diet tends to get some? The answer is multifactorial, meaning that there are many factors that can contribute to the development of cavities. Some people are more prone to developing cavities due to the characteristics of their teeth, such as the presence of pits and fissures on the surface of their teeth, or because they have dry mouth, which can make it more difficult to remove bacteria and food particles from the mouth. Other factors that can contribute to cavities include diet, oral hygiene habits, and genetics.

Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on the surface of your teeth. If it is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can lead to the development of cavities and gum disease. At Blossom Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a test to measure the ATP levels of the bacteria in your plaque and assess your risk of developing cavities. By evaluating your diet, oral hygiene habits, and other risk factors, we can develop a plan specifically for you to help improve the quality of your plaque and reduce your risk of cavities.

Nutritional Counseling

Our initial consultation includes guidance on selecting foods that are beneficial not only for your child's dental health but also for their overall gut health. We recommend foods that promote proper oral muscle development while providing necessary nutrition.

Ozone Dentistry

Ozone is an incredibly powerful oxidizer, and effectively kills bacteria, fungus, viruses, and parasites with virtually no toxic side effects. Medical grade Ozone is produced by converting O₂ to O₃ by way of a generator. After cavity removal, we insufflate with ozone gas prior to placing dental restorations. We irrigate and inject ozone water and gas during surgical procedures to help with healing.

Ask about the benefits of ozonated oil, available at our office.

BPA Free Fillings And Sealants

Our practice offers white filling and sealant materials free of bis-GMA and BPA. Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical that is used in some plastics and resins, and it has been shown to have potential health effects, including disrupting the endocrine system. Using filling materials that are free of BPA can help to reduce the risk of exposure to this chemical. Pure silicate-based filling materials are a good alternative because they are made from a ceramic material that is biocompatible and strong, and they can be used to fill cavities in a way that is similar to traditional filling materials. As with any dental treatment, it’s important to discuss the benefits and potential risks of different filling materials with a dental professional before making a decision about which one is best for you or your child.

Zirconium Crowns

Zirconium is used in dentistry because it is biocompatible, meaning that it is not likely to cause an allergic reaction in most people. It is also resistant to corrosion, which makes it a durable option for dental crowns. In addition to its biocompatibility and durability, zirconium crowns also have a natural, tooth-like appearance, which can be appealing to both children and their parents for superior esthetics. Zirconium crowns may not be suitable for all patients, so it’s always best to consult with a dental professional to determine the best treatment option for your child’s needs.

Tongue Tie Releases

Frenectomies

What is a tongue tie and why should I be concerned? For infants, feeding becomes hindered when tongue and lip restrictions are present. For older children, restricted ties may affect speech and adequate muscle development. Sleep disturbances can be caused by a lower tongue position due to a tight attachment to the floor of mouth. This prevents full closure of the mouth onto the palate, which is important for nasal breathing.

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Sleep Evaluation

Getting a good night’s sleep is important for overall health and well-being. Poor sleep quality can be caused by a variety of factors, including: snoring, mouth breathing, restless movement, and sleep apnea. These symptoms can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, such as: prolonged oral habits, poor diet, poor muscle tone, and chronic infections. It is important to recognize these symptoms in growing children and address any underlying issues as early as possible in order to prevent improper development.

SDF, Silver Nitrate

SDF (silver diamine fluoride) and silver nitrate are topical agents that can be used to treat small carious lesions on baby teeth. SDF and silver nitrate can be especially useful for young children who are not yet cooperative enough to undergo traditional restorative treatment. These agents can help to arrest the progression of small cavities and delay treatment until the child is more cooperative. In older children, SDF may be used to treat small cavities on baby teeth and allow for natural exfoliation before the cavity becomes larger. It is important to note that SDF and silver nitrate are not a replacement for traditional restorative treatment and are typically used as a temporary measure to arrest the progression of caries. They should be used in conjunction with good oral hygiene habits and a healthy diet to help prevent the development of further cavities.