Biological Dentistry (Biodentistry)
Biological Dentistry seeks the safest, least toxic way to accomplish the mission of treatment, all the goals of modern dentistry, and do it while treading as lightly as possible on the patient’s biological terrain.
Biological Dentistry and Its Benefits
Biological dentistry, also known as holistic or integrative dentistry, is an approach that recognizes the intricate connection between oral health and overall well-being. Unlike traditional dentistry, which often focuses solely on treating dental issues, biological dentistry emphasizes prevention, the use of biocompatible materials, and minimally invasive procedures to promote optimal health.
Core Principles of Biological Dentistry
Holistic Patient Care: Biological dentists consider the patient's entire health profile, understanding that oral health can influence and be influenced by other bodily systems.
Use of Biocompatible Materials: Prioritizing materials that are non-toxic and compatible with the body, biological dentists avoid substances like mercury amalgam fillings, which have been associated with potential health risks. (Source: iabdm.org)
Minimally Invasive Techniques: Emphasizing preservation, biological dentistry employs conservative methods to maintain as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
Focus on Prevention: Educating patients on nutrition, oral hygiene, and lifestyle choices, biological dentists aim to prevent dental issues before they arise.
Benefits of Biological Dentistry
Reduced Exposure to Toxins: By avoiding materials like mercury and fluoride, patients experience fewer adverse reactions and potential long-term health issues.
(Source: iabdm.org)Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailoring treatments to individual health needs ensures that dental care aligns with the patient's overall health objectives.
Enhanced Overall Health: Addressing oral health within the context of the entire body can lead to improvements in systemic conditions, as the mouth is a gateway to overall health.
Relationship between teeth and vertebra sacral skull system
Dental treatment with Bioactivators – avoiding metal orthodontics
The Bio-Activator is an elastodontic device of great therapeutic validity made entirely of elastic material, thermoactivable of a functional nature, specifically orthopedic of the dento-craniofacial system. It deals with reconditioning the neuro-muscular system and aligning the teeth in a correct relationship with the bone bases and, therefore, with the skull, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), the cervical spine and, more specifically, with the Cranio-Sacral System (posture). The customized device favors the correct dental eruption and the harmonious development of the dental arches towards an ideal shape with correct transverse, vertical, sagittal and torsional occlusal relationships, rehabilitating the various occlusal imbalances. The treatment with the Bio-Activator can be considered an extraordinary Ortho-Cranio-Facial Bio-Orthopedics.
The devices work mainly by modifying the growth of the Cranio-Facial skeleton, consequently restoring the skeletal architecture of the cranial and, therefore, vertebral massif with benefits on posture. The action of the activator is also beneficial for the recovery of the vital autonomic or pharyngeal functions of the mouth namely sucking, swallowing, breathing, chewing and phonation.
Advancements in Biological Dentistry: Stem Cell Research and Extracellular Vesicles
Recent advancements in biological dentistry have highlighted the potential of stem cell research, particularly the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs), in promoting dental tissue regeneration. EVs are small particles released by cells that play a crucial role in intercellular communication and tissue repair. Studies have shown that EVs derived from mesenchymal stem cells can enhance the regeneration of dental tissues, offering promising avenues for treating conditions such as pulp necrosis and periodontal disease.
(Source: stemcellres.biomedcentral.com)
By integrating these innovative therapies, biological dentistry not only addresses existing dental issues but also promotes the body's natural healing processes, leading to more sustainable and holistic health outcomes. Embracing the principles of biological dentistry, combined with cutting-edge research in stem cell therapy and extracellular vesicles, offers a comprehensive approach to dental care that prioritizes overall health and well-being.
Extracellular Vesicles as Therapeutic Tools in Regenerative Dentistry:
Dental and maxillofacial diseases are always accompanied by complicated hard and soft tissue defects, involving bone, teeth, blood vessels and nerves, which are difficult to repair and severely affect the life quality of patients. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by all types of cells and extracted from body fluids have gained more attention as potential solutions for tissue regeneration due to their special physiological characteristics and intrinsic signaling molecules. Compared to stem cells, EVs present lower immunogenicity and tumorigenicity, cause fewer ethical problems, and have higher stability. Thus, EV therapy may have a broad clinical application in regenerative dentistry. Herein, we reviewed the currently available literature regarding the functional roles of EVs in oral and maxillofacial tissue regeneration, including in maxilla and mandible bone, periodontal tissues, temporomandibular joint cartilage, dental hard tissues, peripheral nerves and soft tissues. We also summarized the underlying mechanisms of actions of EVs and their delivery strategies for dental tissue regeneration. This review would provide helpful guidelines and valuable insights into the emerging potential of EVs in future research and clinical applications in regenerative dentistry.
Stem Cell & Research Therapy. National Library of Medicine (2024)