Holistic dentistry, also called biological dentistry, is an approach to oral health that considers how dental materials and treatments affect the entire body. Holistic dentists avoid materials with known toxicity concerns, treat the underlying causes of dental problems rather than just the symptoms, and account for the connection between oral health and systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
Last updated: July 2026 · Written by Dr. Maryet Nikkie Babrood, DDS, IAOMT member · Rite Dentist, Valley Village, CA
RATED 5.0 ★ · 185+ REVIEWS · IAOMT MEMBER · MERCURY-SAFE PRACTICE · VALLEY VILLAGE, CA
The word holistic comes from the Greek holos, meaning whole. In dentistry, it describes a philosophy that treats the mouth not as an isolated system but as one part of a connected body. A holistic dentist asks not just “what is wrong with this tooth” but “what does this tooth problem tell us about the person’s overall health, and will this treatment support or undermine it?”
Biological dentistry is not a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association. It is a philosophy, meaning any licensed dentist can practice it. The key differentiators are the materials used, the treatments offered, and the way the practice approaches informed consent. Holistic dentists typically belong to organizations like the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) or the Holistic Dental Association (HDA), which publish research-based guidelines for biocompatible care.
At Rite Dentist in Valley Village, biological dentistry means no mercury amalgam, no fluoride in office treatments unless specifically requested, BPA-free restorations, and an approach to every procedure that considers the patient’s full health picture. It begins with a thorough biological dental exam that looks well beyond the teeth.
Holistic practices vary, but nearly all are built on the same set of guiding principles. These are the pillars that separate a biological practice from a conventional one.
Both approaches share the goal of healthy teeth and gums. The difference lies in materials, methods, and what counts as a complete picture of care.
Conventional dentistry still places mercury amalgam fillings in many practices. Holistic dentistry uses only BPA-free composite resin or ceramic restorations, eliminating heavy metal exposure entirely.
Conventional offices apply fluoride as a standard preventive treatment. Holistic dentists offer fluoride-free alternatives such as hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens enamel without the concerns associated with systemic fluoride intake.
A conventional dental exam focuses on teeth, gums, and bite. A holistic exam also considers the patient’s systemic health history, medication list, nutritional status, and stress levels, because all of these influence oral health and vice versa.
Holistic practices use digital X-rays, which produce up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays, and take only what is clinically necessary rather than following a blanket annual schedule. Lead aprons and thyroid collars are standard.
Less radiation from digital X-rays compared to traditional film
Mercury by weight in conventional amalgam fillings, per the WHO
Year the IAOMT was founded to research biocompatible dental care
A common misconception is that holistic dentistry is a narrow niche. In practice, a biological office provides the full range of dental care, delivered with biocompatible materials and a whole-body lens. At Rite Dentist, care falls into three pillars.
Mercury-safe amalgam removal using the SMART protocol, fluoride-free cleanings, ozone therapy, biocompatible restorations, and treatment of the oral-systemic connection. This is the foundation of the practice.
Porcelain veneers, metal-free crowns, tooth-colored bonding, and smile makeovers, all completed with materials chosen for both beauty and biocompatibility. A better smile should never come at the cost of your health.
Routine exams, gentle cleanings, tooth-colored fillings, and preventive care for the whole family, including a fluoride-free approach for children. Everyday dentistry, done the biological way.
Rite Dentist is located at 12520 Magnolia Blvd, Suite 205, in Valley Village, which places the practice within a short drive of many of the communities it serves. Patients travel to Rite Dentist for biological care from across the eastern San Fernando Valley, including:
If you are searching for a holistic dentist near you in any of these neighborhoods, we welcome you to call (818) 766-7776 or book a consultation online.
Rite Dentist serves patients in Valley Village, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood, and Encino. Call (818) 766-7776. Same-day consultations available.
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