Chapel Hill Dentist Explains How Your Gut Microbiome and Sleep Apnea Interact

Even though we have been studying sleep disorders and figuring out how to treat them for decades, we are still learning new things about them every day. That’s why, as our knowledge has increased in recent years, we have been finding new ways to treat obstructive sleep apnea. 

At our dental office, we know that one of the most effective ways to treat it is to use a sleep apnea oral appliance. After you’ve been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, we can provide you with an oral appliance for sleep apnea in Chapel Hill.

If you believe you’re exhibiting common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, it’s important to visit your doctor so they can help you determine if you actually have it. They will usually diagnose you after you undergo a sleep study. Some of the most common symptoms to watch out for include consistent daytime fatigue or gasping in your sleep. 

While there are a variety of factors that contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, recent studies now show that there may be another factor that can help us better understand obstructive sleep apnea: the gut. 

While our dental practice in Chapel Hill can treat obstructive sleep apnea with a sleep apnea oral appliance, we believe that taking care of your body can also help you avoid a slew of other problems. We value educating our patients on conditions like sleep apnea. That’s why Dr. Ralph Mensah has written this blog to explain everything you need to know about the relationship between sleep apnea and the oral-gut microbiome. 

First, let’s examine what sleep apnea is.

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is known as the most common type of sleep apnea. It happens when the muscles near the back of the throat relax too much while you sleep. This causes the airway to “collapse,” which wakes you up in the middle of the night to catch your breath. 

There are a variety of reasons why some people develop obstructive sleep apnea. This specific type of sleep disorder is more prevalent in people who are obese, people who have relatives who snore, and men. Smoking, allergies, and alcohol can also cause it or make it worse. 

It’s important to note that you may not notice the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea right away. In fact, it may take a while to suspect you have it. It’s also not an immediate danger to your health. However, it can still impact your health negatively if you never treat it.

How Your Oral-Gut Microbiome Affects You and Interacts With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Your oral-gut microbiome is a complex system that affects you in a variety of ways. It is made of different kinds of microorganisms, although bacteria play a key role. The inside of your mouth has its own environment that is different from your gut. However, because the mouth feeds the gut, the two are interconnected.

The oral-gut microbiome is a key factor in your health since it can be the reason you develop a systemic disease or an oral disease. When the equilibrium of the gut and the oral cavity are thrown out of whack, pathogens can manifest and lead to debilitating diseases.

Figuring out how to keep your oral-gut microbiome balanced will essentially protect you from severe illness and may also help regulate your emotions. One study even suggests that balancing your oral-gut microbiome may help reduce the effects of obstructive sleep apnea.

Will Probiotics Cure Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

It’s important to note that, while studies do show that the oral-gut microbiome has a significant impact on your health, there is no conclusive evidence that taking care of gut health or oral health will cure sleep apnea. It may help alleviate the severity of symptoms over time, but in order to truly get a good night’s rest, you need to combine oral-gut microbiome balancing methods with an oral appliance for sleep apnea. 

Probiotics are one of the best ways to balance your oral-gut microbiome. They can be found in pill form at your local pharmacy, or you can order the pills online. Some of the best probiotic pills for oral health include Lactobacillus salivarius, Streptococcus salivarius M18, and Lactobacillus reuteri. 

You can also balance your gut health by eating foods that contain natural probiotics. The following foods are good for both your gut health and your oral health:

Kefir

This fermented milk drink is popular in Turkey but can also be found in the United States at some grocers. It is made by combining kefir grains with goat's milk or cow's milk. Not only does it help with your digestive health, but it also reduces your chances of developing infections.

Tempeh

For those who enjoy the taste of mushrooms, tempeh is a great solution for balancing your oral-gut microbiome. It is made out of fermented soybeans, which also makes it vegan-friendly. It also contains Vitamin B12, which is vital for brain and nerve development.

Yogurt 

Yogurt is a popular staple for many people around the world, and it can be served either sweetened or unsweetened. Dairy is important for your oral health because it contains calcium, which is great for your teeth. Yogurt in particular also contains plenty of probiotics to improve your gut health.

Why You Should Get a Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance in Chapel Hill

Since probiotics won’t resolve obstructive sleep apnea completely, you may be wondering what else you may need to get to help you rest easy at night. In some cases, doctors will treat patients with obstructive sleep apnea with a CPAP. 

A CPAP is a machine attached to a mask that provides patients with pressurized air while they sleep. The pressure keeps the airway from closing up as the muscles try to relax. For the treatment to be effective, however, patients must wear their CPAP mask every night, all night. 

Thankfully, CPAP machines aren’t the only way to treat sleep apnea. Depending on the severity of your condition and your needs, you can also combat obstructive sleep apnea with a sleep apnea oral appliance. 

The sleep apnea oral appliance works by keeping your jaw in the right position throughout the night, which then prevents the muscles in the back of your throat from relaxing too far. It also helps prevent snoring and dry mouth, which are also common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.  

Where to Get an Oral Appliance for Sleep Apnea in Chapel Hill

If you’re looking for a comfortable oral appliance for sleep apnea in Chapel Hill, our dental team at Integrative Holistic Dentistry has got you covered. Our dental services and holistic dental procedures are designed to treat the whole patient, not just their oral health. 

Our dentist, Dr. Mensah, understands just how important it is to make sure your teeth and the rest of your body are taken care of. That’s why he uses advanced dental technology to give you the oral health solutions you need, which includes sleep apnea oral appliances. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find out how you can curb the effects of obstructive sleep apnea.

Alternatives for Root Canal Treatment in Chapel Hill, NC

Having tooth pain or hearing that you need a root canal treatment can be overwhelming and frightening. However, if you have a complete understanding of the treatment and know your alternatives, you can make an educated decision to treat your discomfort and protect your oral health. As a holistic dentist in Chapel Hill, Dr. Mensah offers alternatives for root canal treatment to treat the underlying infection and preserve your oral and overall well-being.

Here, we will explain everything you need to know about the alternatives for root canal therapy, why traditional root canals are often performed, the hidden dangers, and how to protect yourself.

How Is a Root Canal Infection Diagnosed?

If your dentist suspects you have an infected root canal, he or she will order a CBCT, which is a 3D X-ray. This allows the dentist to examine the condition of the canals from several different angles and splices. These images will aid the doctor in determining if there are any signs of an infection. 

What Is an Infected Root Canal?

Your teeth have multiple layers. Moving from the outside and looking in, you have the enamel layer, followed by a layer of dentin, and then the soft inner core. The inner core extends into the root. This section of the tooth contains the dental pulp, nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

If the soft inner core is decayed or damaged, it can be very painful. Without prompt treatment, the pulp can become infected or even necrotic (dead). An infected root canal occurs when there is inflammation in the root canals, which naturally run through the tooth from the crown to the pulp.

Causes and Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

An infection in the root canal occurs when bacteria invade the pulp chamber. Common causes of a root canal infection include:

• Cracking or chipping a tooth

• Fracturing a tooth root

• Damaging the tooth pulp, even if the exterior of the tooth is undamaged

• Undergoing repeated dental procedures

• Experiencing severe tooth decay

It is easy to ignore the first signs of a dental problem until severe tooth pain occurs. However, damage can be present in the absence of pain too. The symptoms of an infected root canal include:

• Persistent pain

• Red and/or swollen gums

• Tooth sensitivity

• Loose teeth

• A foul taste in your mouth

• Tooth or gum tenderness

• Swollen glands

• Face pain

• Pus around the tooth root

• Redness in the gums

If you experience any of the symptoms above, schedule an appointment with your dentist for prompt treatment. 

Traditional Root Canal Treatment

Why Is Root Canal Therapy Performed?

A traditional root canal treatment is often performed as a restorative or emergency dental procedure. Root canal treatments have been used over the years to treat badly decayed or infected teeth. While these treatments are traditionally done to save the tooth rather than remove it, leaving an infected, decaying tooth in place can actually harm your overall health.

Dangers of a Root Canal Treatment

Here are some of the risks and dangers of a root canal treatment.

The Tooth Is No Longer Viable

Traditional dentists recommend a root canal when decay extends into the dentin or soft tissue of the tooth. The anticipated goal is to save the natural tooth, but really only the outer structure is preserved. The living interior of the tooth, the part that supplies the tooth with nutrients, is removed. The tooth is now dead because that living material has been replaced with a putty-like filling and sealed with a crown or dental restoration.

Bacteria Remains in the Tooth

Root canal therapy removes some bacteria from the original infection or decay. However, it cannot completely eliminate the bacteria because of the intricate canal structure within the tooth. The canals can be hard to find or navigate, which means bacteria are missed. The bacteria are then free to roam through the body, leading to chronic and serious health conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, cancer, and more.

A Secondary Infection Develops

During a traditional root canal, the canals are cleaned and then filled to seal out additional bacteria. However, as noted above, it is impossible to remove 100% of the bacteria in the infected area, so a portion remains inside the tooth. This infected material is cut off from the blood supply, so your immune system cannot respond. Therefore, the infection can fester and grow inside the chamber as it leaks out into the rest of the body, causing full-body inflammation.

Root Canal Alternatives in Chapel Hill

When infection or decay extends into the inner areas of the tooth, a root canal treatment is not the only option. You can speak with a holistic dentist in Chapel Hill to learn how to preserve your oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Mensah and his team will create a custom treatment plan based on your unique needs. Your treatment plan may include one or all of the procedures below.

Tooth Extraction

While it may sound daunting, extracting a tooth is the safest and best option for a root canal infection. When faced with the impending danger of bacteria and pathogens in the mouth and body, removing the tooth is better for your long-term health. A tooth extraction completely removes the tooth and root, including the infected root canal. The surrounding soft tissue is then debrided to remove any lingering bacteria.

Ozone Therapy

Dental ozone is a therapeutic treatment that removes pathogens, restores proper oxygen metabolism, increases blood circulation, and creates a healthier oral environment. Following a tooth extraction, the dentist uses dental ozone to disinfect the treatment site.

PRF Grafting

Once the tooth has been extracted and disinfected, PRF grafting may be the next step. Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) speeds wound healing. This material is extremely beneficial and safe because it is made from the patient’s own blood. The patient’s blood is taken and spun down into a serum with white blood cells. The fibrin is full of regenerative growth factors to improve healing and decrease the rate of infection.

Metal-Free Dental Implants

Replacing an extracted tooth restores the balance of your oral cavity. It improves the function and aesthetic of your smile. Metal-free dental implants use a biocompatible zirconia post to replace the tooth root. Since implants are placed in the jaw, they provide unparalleled strength and durability and can last a lifetime. The implant is topped with a dental crown to restore the overall tooth structure and complete your smile.

Find Holistic Alternatives for Root Canal Therapy in Chapel Hill, NC

We now know that it is impossible to completely remove bacteria from the intricate root canals and tubules. Letting bacteria or an infected root canal linger in your mouth can have serious consequences on your overall health. At Integrative Holistic Dentistry, we provide holistic alternatives for root canal treatment in Chapel Hill, NC. Your oral and overall well-being are our priorities!

Take a natural approach to dental care and protect your health and wellness. Contact us today to learn more!

Resources in Chapel Hill, NC

Welcome to Chapel Hill, North Carolina!

Dubbed ‘The Southern Part of Heaven,’ Chapel Hill is known for its quaint, small town feel with a touch of modernism. Home to UNC (Go Tar Heels!), the area is considered one of the best college towns in the United States. It offers residents and visitors a number of resources and activities, including music, shopping, and dining. As a holistic dental practice in Chapel Hill, we are proud to serve our local community and want our patients to enjoy its many amenities as much as we do.

Read on to discover more about the services and resources in Chapel Hill and all that this heavenly southern town has to offer its students, couples, and families.

Life in Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a large town in Orange County, North Carolina with a population of 62, 906. It has been rated one of the best places to live in the state. It offers residents a mix of urban and suburban life with plenty of restaurants, shops, parks, and highly rated public schools. Chapel Hill is a great community for families, young professionals, and older couples as well.

Location and Climate

Like most of North Carolina, Chapel Hill experiences hot, muggy summers and short, cold winters. Residents get to experience all four seasons with temperatures varying from 32℉ to 88℉ over the course of the year. For tourists, the best times to visit are typically late spring or early fall when it isn’t as hot and humid.

Chapel Hill History

Founded in 1792, Chapel Hill was named for the New Hope Chapel that once stood at the crossroads on the hill at the town’s center. Christopher Barbee, the son of one of the town’s original settlers, invested in the land and supported the construction of a university. The University of North Carolina opened in 1795 and continues to significantly contribute to the town’s economy. 

The town is inextricably tied to the university, its research facilities and buildings, and nearby Research Triangle Park; all of which have impacted Chapel Hill’s history and development.

Resources and Services in Chapel Hill, NC

From educational and family resources to shopping and dining, Chapel Hill has your needs covered through various services for residents and visitors.

Educational Resources

Chapel Hill is well known as the home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. However, its public school system is also highly rated. The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School System is one of the best in the United States. The district regularly ranks highly for student test scores and the lowest dropout rate in the state. There are 9 public elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 2 high schools. 

UNC is a public research university. As the flagship for the North Carolina educational system, it is often considered a public Ivy League School thanks to the high-quality academic experience. In addition to the quality education, students, locals, and visitors have access to various educational facilities at UNC. These include the Ackland Art Museum, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, North Carolina Botanical Garden, and libraries.

Family Resources and Services

Looking for a good gym or trying to schedule a pick-up game? Chapel Hill offers resources and services to get in shape and stay physically active.

The Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation offers engaging activities for youth and adults. Athletics, drop-in sports, and fitness classes are available for all ages. These sports and classes allow participants to join other members of the community in staying healthy in a positive environment. 

The Parks and Rec service also provides access to several public gyms and sports fields. Residents are able to use these amenities anytime they aren’t reserved or scheduled for department programs.

Parks, Nature, and Recreational Services

There is no shortage of opportunities to get outside, explore nature, and get fresh air. Chapel Hill is home to over 730 acres of public space, including 18 community or neighborhood parks and plazas. With beautiful parks, athletic fields, green spaces, and outdoor plazas, there is plenty of space to get outside and play!

If you’re looking for even more solitude or an escape into nature, check out the greenway trails and nature preserves in the area. Whether you are looking for a brisk, mile-long trek in green space, a walk through the gardens, or a trip into the mountains, there is something for everyone.

Shopping and Dining

Ready to check out a new restaurant? Chapel Hill offers a wide range of dining opportunities to appeal to your taste buds. Want a night out with friends, your significant other, or the whole family? The restaurant selection won’t disappoint. 

Whether you want handcrafted Italian specialties, American fare, international cuisine, burgers, or more, there’s something for everyone in Chapel Hill. Check out Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery, 411 West Italian Cafe, Al’s Burger Shack, or Cha House to get started. 

Looking to shop til you drop? Check out University Place, the premier shopping destination in the Triangle region. This is the only enclosed shopping mall in the area. It offers 29 stores, dining options, a cinema, and even a grocery store. 

Chapel Hill and Orange County are also home to boutiques, shops, and artisans selling one-of-a-kind products, Tar Heel memorabilia, antiques, and gifts. Franklin Street and Downtown Chapel Hill offer plenty of parking, making it easy to stop and browse your favorite stores.  

Events and Attractions

No matter what type of outing you are on, there are plenty of things to do in Chapel Hill. Although it is considered a college town, young professionals, families, and seniors are proud to call the area home. Chapel Hill plans events with children, adults, and families in mind. From musical performances and outdoor movies to gardening, author events to UNC sporting events, there are numerous options to enjoy and explore the local community.

Need something to do this weekend in Chapel Hill? Check out the events calendar and try something new!

Quality Dental Services in Chapel Hill

During your time in Chapel Hill, we invite you to contact our office for all of your oral health needs. We offer comprehensive dental services in Chapel Hill and are happy to be your home for holistic dental care. 

Book an appointment today! Our team is happy to serve you!

The History of Chapel Hill, NC

While Chapel Hill may seem like a relatively quiet town, it still has its fair share of bustling areas and lively activities. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy a variety of places to explore, rich with history and timeliness charm. From paranormal legends to fantastic scientific endeavors, Chapel Hill has remained one of the best places to visit in North Carolina in Orange County. 

As an established dental office in Chapel Hill that provides comprehensive dental services, we’re eager to give you a little insight into the town’s history. There’s a good reason why people love to travel and study in the Research Triangle.  

Humble Beginnings With New Hope Chapel

Chapel Hill wasn’t always called Chapel Hill in the very beginning. Back in 1753, the town started off as two different land grants under a settler named William Barbee. His child, Christopher Barbee, would later go on to invest more in the land and support the construction of a university. 

Before the university, however, came the well-known church called New Hope Chapel, which had already been built in 1752. New Hope Chapel remained the center of the growing town for a while. Construction followed the famous hill surrounding it and eventually continued from there.

Eventually, the structure of the church was later rebuilt for a new purpose. The building now stands as a historical relic near the university amongst many other buildings in the area. 

Building an Educational Foundation With the University of North Carolina

The university that Christopher Barbee funded attracted plenty of curious intellectuals to the town, which boosted the growth of Chapel Hill. While The University of North Carolina originally started off with a focus on leadership training, it soon expanded its programs and offered a variety of science programs. 

One of these programs, astronomy, took off and later became one of the biggest disciplines in the university. This led to the construction of the first astronomical observatory to ever be built in American state university in 1831. 

After the Civil War–despite the university closing its doors temporarily–more programs were added after the school reopened. This further solidified The University of North Carolina as a leading university in the country. From there, the town continued to develop around the university. 

How the New Hope Chapel Turned Into the Carolina Inn

Because Chapel Hill was chartered in 1851 on blessed land, the town also became known as “the southern part of heaven.” However, one of the biggest changes that happened as the town grew was the evolution of New Hope Chapel. 

While the original building had started out as a small cabin to house travelers before the town was founded, no one knows why it stopped operating as a church. Despite its somewhat mysterious history, however, its name inspired the name for the town that would be known as Chapel Hill. It wasn’t until 1923 that the old church building would be rebuilt and transformed into The Carolina Inn. 

In 1935, the inn was donated to The University of Carolina. The Carolina Inn is now both a historical marker and a meeting place for locals, especially students and alumni of the local university. 

The Start of Fare-Free Transportation With the Chapel Hill Transit System

As the population began to rise, Chapel Hill eventually needed a way to help residents and visitors navigate through the busiest parts of town. Thus, the Chapel Hill Transit System was born. 

It began as a study that lasted for 30 months. During this time, in 2013, city officials and contractors planned out the best way to travel along US 15-501 South and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, South Columbia Street. The transit system wasn’t completed until 2016. 

Not only did construction focus on improving the aesthetics and overall connectivity of the area, but it also focused on accessibility. The Chapel Hill Transit System now operates on a fare-free basis, meaning residents and visitors do not have to pay to catch the bus. 

Recognition of the West Chapel Hill Historic District

Chapel Hill is full of history, which is why many of its buildings and districts are included in the National Register of Historic Places. Since 1971, city officials have worked diligently to maintain the historic grounds of many places, including the Gimghoul local historic district and the Alexander Hogan Plantation. 

The Gimghoul district is home to the famous Gimghoul castle, which is known as a haunted spot frequented by locals and tourists. Legend has it that a student named Peter Dromgool died in 1833 on the property while fighting another man for his lover’s affection. Supposedly, this is why a famous rock on the property has been stained with red blood ever since. 

Another legend states that the castle was home to a secret society called “The Order of Gimghoul.” Unfortunately, the grounds are closed to everyone, including those curious enough to discover the truth for themselves. 

Meanwhile, on the Alexander Plantation, artifacts found around the grounds have shown evidence of native tribes that existed for thousands of years. These findings have made this site a noteworthy area for archeologists. The grounds are memorialized for their part in the American Revolution, and the names of the slaves who helped build the house are also well documented.

How Chapel Hill, NC Is Today

Even with a new, thriving transit system and a dazzling nightlife that shines near the center of the city, Chapel Hill remains a special place for residents and visitors. 

Franklin Street in particular is rich with its own history since it used to be the center of the town. It boasts plenty of modernized restaurants and family-owned businesses that families and college students can enjoy. However, there are plenty of other things to do in Chapel Hill that are waiting to be discovered. 

If you’re moving to Chapel Hill, and you’re looking for a dentist that will take care of you and your family’s dental health, then feel free to contact us today to set up your first appointment. At Integrative Holistic Dentistry, we want you to feel like family, and we’re eager to be one of the first faces you see in town!

Top 10 Things to Do in Chapel Hill, NC

Considered to be one of the top places you can live for North Carolina residents, Chapel Hill is a town known for its laid-back atmosphere with a touch of modernism. Regardless of what your interests are, you’re bound to find something to enjoy, whether you’re in search of local legends or local ice cream.

Chapel Hill is also full of some of the best local businesses with people who will go the extra mile for customer satisfaction. Our dental practice in Chapel Hill offers quality dental services that focus on both your oral health and overall health. We’re proud to serve the Chapel Hill area and give you your first glimpse into this thriving community.

10 Places to Check Out in Chapel Hill, NC

There are a plethora of exciting events and fun places to check out in your free time, many of which are easy to travel to. Downtown Chapel Hill has plenty of public transportation to help you easily get from point A to point B to point C, so you don’t have to worry about finding parking. That’s why it’s known as a college town and a great area for small families. 

Nature lovers will also appreciate the amount of trails and gardens available for public use. With all four seasons on full display in the state of North Carolina, there’s beauty to see no matter what time of year it is. Apart from the natural scenery, here’s a few more things that should be on your list when you’re ready to hit the town:

1. Franklin Street

If you’re looking for the busier parts of Chapel Hill, then Franklin Street is your one-stop shop for a taste of everything. You’ll find the area teeming with bars and restaurants of all types. You can get a taste of just about any of the popular local dishes and craft beers that residents have come to love. Franklin Street is also a great place to start making some new friends or bringing a few old ones with its bustling social life. 

2. The Shrunken Head

The name might sound funny, but this one-stop gift shop is chock-full of souvenirs that the whole family can enjoy wearing or showing off to their friends. Located off of Franklin Street, The Shrunken Head offers not only quality gear but also fantastic customer service. It’s also a family-run business that is now known as a traditional stop for both visitors and residents to come to. 

3. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

Do you love space? If so, visiting the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is a must. Here, you can find plenty of exciting exhibits, science shows, guided tours, and planetarium shows that will appeal to the star-gazer inside of you. Even better, when you spend money here, you can do so with the knowledge that part of the proceeds go towards education in Orange County. 

4. Carolina Basketball Museum

North Carolina is known for basketball. That’s why the Carolina Basketball Museum is one of the best places to visit if you’re a basketball fan. Built in 2008, it’s gone through multiple renovations to keep it up to date with the latest records. You’ll start your visit with a short presentation, and you’ll also get to enjoy a few interactive presentations as you walk the grounds.

5. Dean E. Smith Center

The Dean E. Smith Center is another great place for sports enthusiasts. Every home game that the Carolina basketball team plays happens here. In 1986, the Dean E. Smith Center was also declared the home of the Tar Heels. 

The center has gone through a few recent renovations, and visitors can now catch a ride on convenient shuttles during various events held at the center.

6. Gimghoul Castle

If you’re a horror or mystery enthusiast, then you’ll be happy to know that Chapel Hill is home to Gimghoul Castle, which is known for its mysterious history. There are not only one, but two popular local stories associated with the castle and its grounds. 

Construction started in the early 1920’s, and for the past 100 years, residents and visitors alike have been enamored with the site of this haunted relic. While the castle isn’t open to the public, you can get a good look at it from the road if you’re in the area.

7. Maple View Ice Cream

The winters may be cold in Chapel Hill, but the summers can get pretty hot too. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to cool off in the area, including scarfing down a delicious helping of local ice cream down at the Maple View Ice Cream shop.

Located right next to Maple View Farm, this ice scream shop sells plenty of unique, seasonal, and classic flavors, such as banana pudding, cream cheese and jalapeño, and butter pecan. You can also buy cakes and different kinds of milk to take home with you.

8. Bolin Creek Trail

There’s plenty of beautiful natural scenery in North Carolina to enjoy, and there’s also quite a few trails you can walk to take it all in. Bolin Creek Trail is known for its easy walking paths, bike trails, and secluded areas. You can either have fun with the kids or enjoy the scenery in peace as you navigate the quieter areas of the trail.

9. North Carolina Botanical Garden

Another place that nature lovers will enjoy is the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Not only can you enjoy the beauty of the well-maintained grounds and literally stop the smell the roses, but you can also take classes in gardening and yoga. North Carolina Botanical Garden also supports nearby schools and encourages field trips for educational purposes.

10. Orange County Historical Museum

Chapel Hill is rich in both scenery and history. When you visit the Orange County Historical Museum, you’ll have the chance to learn about the Occaneechi as well as the customs and traditions that make Chapel Hill what it is today. You can also enjoy the museum’s culinary center and its creative take on heritage cooking.

Come See Us Today in Chapel Hill, NC

When you come to our neck of the woods, it’s easy to see why it’s known as “the southern part of heaven.” You’re treated like a part of the family, whether you’re kicking back with friends at your favorite golf courses or picking a new local restaurant to try. Once you’re settled, make sure to contact us to set up your first appointment! We at Integrative Holistic Dentistry look forward to seeing you. 

Holistic dentistry and its benefits for Chapel Hill residents

Dentistry involves caring for the teeth, gums, mouth, jaws, and facial structures. However, dental medicine is a vast field with various specialties including general, family, pediatric, and cosmetic dentistry. Holistic dentistry has gained ground in recent years as a form of conservative, yet comprehensive field of dental medicine. 

When it comes to choosing a dentist for your family, a holistic dental practice in Chapel Hill offers a great alternative to conventional dentistry. Keep reading to learn what holistic dentistry is, how it differs from traditional dentistry, and how you can benefit from holistic practices.

What is holistic dentistry?

Also called natural or biological dentistry, holistic dentistry is an alternative to traditional dental care. While a holistic dentist provides oral health care, he goes a step beyond just the mouth. A holistic dentist takes a whole-body approach to dental care. This includes understanding how your oral health impacts your physical, spiritual, and emotional wellness.

Holistic dentists acknowledge that certain treatments, materials, and medications have an effect on the patient’s body, not just the mouth. Treatments are selected based on their health, safety, and effectiveness. Additionally, biological dentists focus on prevention and using conservative methods to minimize any potential risks and preserve oral and overall health.

Biological dentist vs. traditional dentist

Both traditional and holistic dentists attend dental school and participate in continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on current practices. Their goals are to protect their patients’ oral health. Holistic dentists may incorporate traditional practices. However, their approaches, treatments, and materials often differ.

Approaches to dentistry

The biggest difference between holistic and conventional dentists is their approach or dental philosophy. Traditional dentistry focuses on dental health and diagnosing and treating issues with the teeth, gums, and jaws.

Holistic dentistry understands the interconnectedness of the body, that connection between oral and overall wellness. There is more of a focus on how problems and their treatments affect the whole patient. 

Dental treatments and technology

Dentistry as a whole relies on principles of brushing and flossing for oral health. Dental fillings are used to protect and restore teeth that have been damaged or weakened by tooth decay. 

However, holistic dentists use variations of these practices and incorporate therapies and technologies that are natural, conservative, and/or minimally invasive. Conservative measures, which promote natural, quick healing, are preferred to more invasive treatments, which come with higher risks.

Additionally, holistic dentists do not perform root canals. Root canals are considered unsafe due to the chemicals used and the inability to fully cleanse the canals. This leaves the possibility of bacteria being locked in the tooth and bone causing more serious complications later. Holistic dentistry offers safe alternatives to root canals to preserve a healthy, live tooth.

Biological dentists do use ozone therapy and regenerative dentistry to promote faster, more natural healing throughout the body. Ozone therapy is used in treating gum disease, tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, dry socket, and more. Ozone helps to eliminate pathogens, increase circulation, and restore oxygen modulation bringing many benefits to the body.

Regenerative dental procedures restore, renew, or replace damaged tissues, bones, and teeth through advanced treatments. These treatments include platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) and carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapy. PRF speeds wound healing and tissue regeneration through growth factors found using the patient’s own blood, which is spun in a centrifuge. PRF decreases swelling and speeds healing when used with extractions, bone grafts, and dental implant placement.

CO2 lasers have been used in dentistry for years. They have numerous uses including soft tissue surgeries and periodontal therapies. Lasers provide an alternative to more invasive drilling and oral surgeries. This minimally invasive treatment brings faster healing and decreased bleeding, swelling, and discomfort.

Dental materials and technologies

Just as treatments are selected based on their benefits for the whole patient, materials and technologies are given the same consideration. Holistic materials are selected based on their biocompatibility, meaning they are safe or compatible with the body.

Before using certain materials, your holistic dentist can do a biocompatibility test, such as the Clifford Materials Reactivity Testing (CMRT). This is done to assess any sensitivities or allergies to materials. Biocompatibility testing allows your holistic dentist to provide safe, individualized dental care.

Holistic dentists prefer the use of natural materials and avoid heavy metals. They may offer metal-free dental implants to replace missing teeth without the risk of metal sensitivities. Zirconia dental implants are white so they look more natural, and they are safe.

Dentists who are SMART-certified can safely remove amalgam fillings which contain mercury and are harmful to your overall health. Mercury filling removal is performed by following the precise protocol laid out by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This ensures the safety of the patient, dental team, and the environment. These fillings are replaced with a tooth-colored composite which is strong, safe, and looks more like the natural tooth.

Benefits of holistic dentistry

Because of its approach for the whole patient and not just the oral cavity, holistic dentistry offers many advantages over traditional dental care. Some of the benefits of holistic dentistry include the following: 

Uses biocompatible, non-toxic materials

As mentioned above, holistic dentists deeply consider their materials before using them. The CMRT testing allows them to customize each patient’s treatments to ensure the safest, most effective results. 

Even for patients without allergies, the use of natural, non-toxic materials is beneficial. Metals and chemicals can have negative effects on the body; plus they leave a grayish appearance in your mouth. By avoiding these materials, your dentist ensures your treatments do not have long-lasting repercussions on your overall wellness. Materials used by holistic dentists are safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing.

Treats patients with minimally invasive procedures

Although holistic dentistry may be considered an alternative dental medicine, you are not sacrificing quality. Instead, you get high-tech, high-quality procedures that are customized to your needs. Instead of invasive drilling or oral surgeries, many procedures can be performed with conservative or minimally invasive alternatives.

Digital imaging, CAD, and CO2 lasers are just a few of the state-of-the-art technologies you may find in a holistic dental office. These technologies and treatments allow patients to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures while helping them keep their natural teeth and healthy smiles.

Focuses on the whole patient

When you sit down with a holistic dentist such as Dr. Mensah, you can trust that he is getting to know you as a whole person. Instead of focusing just on your mouth, he wants to know about you, your history, your medical health, and your emotional wellbeing. This allows him to develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on diagnosing and treating your oral health.

Holistic dentists often take a preventative approach and look beyond the symptoms for an underlying cause. Your physical and emotional health are considered when preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral health concerns.

Find a holistic dentist in Chapel Hill, NC

At Integrative Holistic Dentistry, our compassionate dental team takes the time to get to know our patients to develop trusting relationships. We aim to empower our patients to take an active role in their oral and overall health by helping them make informed decisions. We utilize natural, yet advanced therapies to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile for life.

Take control of your health today. Book an appointment with a holistic dentist in Chapel Hill. We look forward to meeting you!