What Is a Biological Dentist?
When people first hear the term “biological dentist,” they may envision something unconventional or even question what biology has to do with their teeth. And that’s understandable—biological dentistry isn’t widely explained, especially in traditional dental settings.
This article will answer the question “What is a biological dentist?” in clear, simple terms. Along the way, we’ll explore how biological dentistry differs from conventional dentistry, dispel common misconceptions, and help you understand why your oral health plays such a vital role in your whole body health.
Biological Dentistry vs. Conventional Dentistry
Let’s start with what most people know—standard dental care. Every six months, you show up for a cleaning, the hygienist polishes your teeth and scrapes off tartar, and the dentist spends a few minutes checking for cavities or the need for crowns, root canals, or other procedures.
You may get a quick reminder to floss more, then you’re scheduled for your next visit.
This routine seems normal. But when you take a step back, it raises a deeper question: What has actually been resolved? Do you understand why you got that cavity? Or how your dental health may be affecting your overall health?
This is where biological dentistry takes a different—and much needed—approach.
Conventional Dentistry: A Fragmented View of Health
Modern medicine tends to separate our bodies into isolated parts. You see a cardiologist for your heart, a gastroenterologist for digestion, and a dentist for your teeth. But our bodies aren’t made up of disconnected systems—they’re complex, integrated, and deeply connected.
Unfortunately, many conventional dentists treat oral health issues symptomatically: drill the cavity, fill the tooth, and move on. There’s often no conversation about why these issues occur, or how things like diet, hormones, inflammation, or even stress might be involved.
In contrast, biological dentists take a root-cause approach. They ask: What’s behind the decay? How does your nutrition, immune system, or exposure to toxic dental materials contribute to your condition? And most importantly: How can we support your body’s natural ability to heal?
So What Is Biological Dentistry, Exactly?
Biological dentists are trained professionals who prioritize the mouth-body connection. They consider how dental treatments impact your overall health, not just your teeth. Their focus is on using biocompatible materials, avoiding toxins like mercury, and addressing underlying causes of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Biological dentistry is sometimes also called natural dentistry, alternative dentistry, or holistic dental care—though there are subtle differences between these terms.
What sets biological dentists apart is their commitment to:
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Whole-body health and healing
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Safe practices like mercury-safe amalgam removal
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Minimally invasive procedures that preserve natural tooth structure
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Use of biocompatible dental materials and biocompatibility testing
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Addressing dental disease through nutrition, immune support, and natural treatments
Dr. Reinhard Voll, a German physician, once estimated that nearly 80% of all illnesses have a connection to the mouth. Biological dentists take this connection seriously.
How Biological Dentistry Supports Whole-Body Health
Doctors in fields like cardiology, oncology, and autoimmune disease are beginning to speak up about the role of dental infections in chronic illness. Research from experts like Dr. Thomas Levy, author of The Hidden Epidemic, links unresolved oral infections to conditions like:
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Heart disease
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Alzheimer’s
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Diabetes
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Inflammatory bowel disease
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Osteoporosis
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Pulmonary conditions
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Pregnancy complications
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Hearing loss
…and many more.
Most conventional dentists are not trained to look beyond the mouth. That’s not their fault—dental school focuses primarily on procedures, not on exploring the connection between oral medicine and physical and emotional health.
Biological dentists, however, choose to pursue additional training in whole body health, natural therapies, and advanced diagnostics.
What to Look for in a Biological Dentist
Not all biological dentists are the same. To find a practitioner truly committed to your total wellness, ask these key questions:
1. Is the practice mercury-free AND mercury-safe?
Mercury-free means no new amalgam fillings are placed.
Mercury-safe means old mercury fillings are removed using safety protocols that protect both you and the dental team.
2. Do they follow a specific protocol for amalgam removal?
This should include a rubber dam, high-volume suction, and protective gear.
The office should also support you nutritionally before and after the procedure to help your body detox.
3. Do they use digital X-rays and CBCT scans?
Cone Beam CT (CBCT) provides a 3D view of your teeth and jaw, revealing hidden infections, cavitations, and failed root canals.
4. What is their stance on fluoride?
Biological dentists often avoid fluoride due to concerns about fluoride exposure and its systemic effects. They typically recommend fluoride-free products made from biocompatible materials.
5. Do they talk about nutrition and lifestyle?
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Proper diet is essential for preventing tooth decay and supporting remineralization.
6. What’s their approach to root canals?
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Root canal treatment can be a temporary solution but may leave behind hidden infection. Root canal alternatives are often discussed by biological dentists.
7. Do they use biomimetic restorations?
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Biomimetic techniques mimic natural tooth structure and support long-term dental health.
8. Are their product recommendations non-toxic?
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From toothpaste to mouth rinses, the products used should be free of unnecessary chemicals.
9. Do they use lasers for cavity detection?
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Laser technology offers over 90% accuracy in early decay detection—far better than the traditional “poke test.”
10. Do they promote remineralization?
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Remineralizing teeth naturally is possible, especially in early decay. Ask about their protocol.
If a biological dentistry office can answer yes to at least 7 out of these 10 questions, you’ve found a provider that truly supports whole body wellness.
Why Choose a Biological Dentist?
Biological dentists offer something traditional dentists often can’t: a comprehensive, personalized approach to oral hygiene, prevention, and treatment.
Many biological dentists also provide additional services like:
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Ozone therapy for disinfection and healing
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Muscle response testing to identify sensitivities to various dental materials
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Support for patients with autoimmune disease, chronic illness, or mercury toxicity
At Total Care Dental and Wellness, we take this even further with advanced diagnostics and a team trained in both dentistry and functional wellness. We believe that your mouth is the gateway to your physical health, and we treat it with the care it deserves.
Schedule Your Biological Dentistry Appointment Today
Ready to take the next step in protecting your oral and overall health? At Total Care Dental and Wellness, our new patient exam includes:
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3D Cone Beam X-rays (CBCT)
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Intraoral scans and gum exam
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Comprehensive dental and airway evaluations
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A personalized treatment plan rooted in biological dentistry
Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all care. Choose a dentist who sees the whole you.
Dr. Michelle Jorgensen
Dr. Michelle Jorgensen is an author, speaker, teacher, biologic/holistic dentist, and health and wellness, provider.Â
Dr. Michelle Jorgensen is also a Board Certified Traditional Naturopath and has received certifications as a Therapeutic Nutritional Counselor, and a Certified Nutritional Autoimmune Specialist. She completed a Holistic Dental Mini-Residency and is pursuing ongoing training from experts around the world in health-related fields.
Dr. Jorgensen also teaches and coaches groups of dental professionals across the country through her Living Well Professionals training. They learn how to integrate dentistry with other health disciplines to provide an integrated, whole body approach to care.
