Holistic Dental Care

What is Holistic Dentistry?

Unlike conventional dentistry, a holistic dental approach considers that what happens to one system in the body affects all the others. For instance, a person who is under significant stress is much more likely to develop tooth decay than one who is relaxed. A holistic approach to teeth understands that all the aspects of your health matter.

From your mindset to your diet to your physical activity, the holistic approach respects that everything affects everything else. It is an approach that requires time, patience, and understanding. If you are pursuing care from a truly holistic dentist, you can expect your appointments to be longer and that you will spend more time searching for the root cause of issues rather than just treating symptoms.

The Benefits of Holistic Dentistry

We look at how to support all of your body’s systems – immunity, digestion, psychological, emotional, and energy levels – to ensure that your whole body feels and functions well.

Holistic Dental Services in Portland

At Blodgett Dental Care, we believe Holistic Dentistry is a Whole-Person Approach to Dental Care

"This means we consider how oral health impacts the body and how the health of your body impacts your oral health. Thoughts, feelings, and emotions are intimately intertwined with your whole-body wellness."

- Dr. Kelly Blodgett

Who Is The Blodgett Dental Care Ideal Patient?

This approach may be right for you if:

• You were told everything was fine, but you know something isn’t right
• You may be sensitive to metals or chemicals
• You're managing chronic inflammation or autoimmunity
  
• You believe your body deserves more than a quick fix
• You understand that prevention is worth more than reaction

People come to us when:

• They've been told everything was fine, but you know something’s off
• They feel dismissed by conventional dentistry
• They know they heal better when supported energetically and naturally

Patient Testimonials: A Whole Body Approach to Holistic Dentistry

These are the voices of our happy patients and their stories. Experience first-hand the sense of unique community and individual care in Dr. Blodgett's practice.

This is how health care should always be. Came from Canada for surgery and it changed my life. Now I can finally move past this root canal! Thanks team!

Andrea S.
Vancouver BC

Truly the best dental experience!!!

Three months ago, I made the important decision to travel to PDX and have my titanium implant (and surrounding metal tacks) removed by Dr. Blodgett and the team, an experience that has profoundly changed my life for the better. The implant was located on the meridian line of the reproductive system, which we suspected might be contributing to my endometriosis. From the outset, Dr. Blodgett and the entire staff provided an unparalleled level of care, making me feel deeply heard and supported throughout the entire process.

Their approach is holistic and comprehensive, considering my entire health history to tailor a treatment plan that was right for me. They provided several healing modalities to support my recovery, including full-body red light therapy, vitamin C IV therapy, and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) treatments. Post-op, I was able manage any light pain with homeopathics alone. So great!

We explored potential options for replacing the titanium implant. Together, we decided on a bridge, and we were able to set the new tooth in place the very same day. The moment we removed the titanium implant (which had been corroding!), I knew we had made the right decision. Immediately I could take a clearer, deeper breath and my body relaxed.

The impact of this procedure on my health since has been incredible. Not only have I seen a significant decrease in pain and endometriosis flares, but I've also experienced a deeper connection to my body, improved breathing, reduced inflammation, enhanced mental clarity, and a surge in overall energy. Not to mention, it's cosmetically everything I'd hoped for. It's been a life-changing transformation.

For anyone seeking a holistic dental care provider who takes into account the whole person, I couldn't recommend this team more. Their exceptional care and commitment to holistic health principles have not only improved a significant health concern for me but have also set me on a path to a healthier, more vibrant life. Thank you, Dr. Blodgett and everyone involved, for your outstanding care and dedication and for making such a meaningful difference in my life.

Kaili K.
Colorado

I have been to many different dentists and health practitioners but never have I had such a spectacular experience before. My recent dental treatment began with a their “New Patient Experience” where a thorough and holistic assessment was made of my overall health and dental needs. Dr. Blodgett and his team then designed a comprehensive treatment plan for me, which included pre-surgery preparation and follow up support, using the latest in holistic care and technology.

The entire treatment was a lot easier than I had anticipated and they were very patient and comforting to me when I had my pre-surgery nervousness. I am so glad I got my treatment done and I truly believe that Dr. Blodgett and his team have given me back my health through their intuitive, compassionate care and I am grateful that I found them.

The one-on-one attention and care I received has been above and beyond. The entire team is exceptionally skilled and seek to understand your needs, while expressing warm and genuine care. The office is also very impressive, clean, high tech, and often times even felt like a spa! I highly recommend: in fact, my husband has also become a patient and has been just as impressed.

L. T.
Portland, OR

Holistic Dental Care FAQs

Explore commonly asked holistic dentistry questions from our thriving community! Cant find your query? Reach out to us during our business hours and we'll be sure to help you get your question answered!

What is the difference between a holistic dentist and a regular dentist?

Holistic dentists consider all aspects of health as they relate to oral wellness. They don't view teeth as isolated entities, but instead consider a person's mindset, stress levels, nutrition, past traumas, and support system. They view signs and symptoms in the mouth as the body's way of expressing health dysfunction in other systems. Holistic dental offices often create spa-like environments with thoughtful attention to colors, plants, music, and even scents, designed to provide an "experience" rather than just an appointment.

What is holistic in dentistry?

While traditional preventative dentistry focuses on nutrition and fluoride, holistic dentistry goes much deeper. It considers past dental experiences that may have created fear, guilt, or shame. A holistic approach looks beyond traditional treatments to incorporate homeopathy, herbs, and nutritional supplementation to optimize both the patients health and the dental experience.

Are holistic dentists legitimate?

A holistic approach to dentistry is not only legitimate but essential for health optimization. However, be cautious—many dentists use "holistic" and "biological" in their marketing without actually changing their approach to care. Research each provider's experience and training thoroughly to ensure they're authentic, not just using popular terms for search engine optimization.

Dr. Blodgett was Oregon's first dentist to become board certified in both Naturopathic Medical Dentistry and Integrative Biological Dental Medicine, with extensive education and networking with complementary healthcare providers.

What is a holistic approach to teeth?

A holistic approach recognizes that teeth are individual organ systems within the larger human body system. What affects one system impacts all others. For example, stress activates your "fight or flight" response, causing fluid within teeth to move inward rather than outward, allowing acids and microbes to enter and cause decay. The holistic approach respects that everything affects everything else—from mindset to diet to physical activity. Expect longer appointments focused on finding root causes rather than just treating symptoms.

Do holistic dentists do root canals?

Most holistic dentists understand that leaving a dead tooth in living bone can lead to jawbone diseases and energetic disruption. However, truly holistic dentists don't operate from dogmatic thinking—they recognize that root canals are occasionally the best option among less-than-ideal choices. The decision should consider your long-term health goals, values, budget, and timeline rather than relying on dental dogma.

Is a holistic dentist more expensive?

Most holistic dentists pursue significantly more continuing education than average providers. While Oregon requires 20 hours annually, Dr. Blodgett averages over 200 hours per year. This additional education and integrated technologies create higher overhead, resulting in generally higher fees. However, as with many things in life, you get what you pay for—investing in holistic dental care often means better health quality and fewer symptoms like cavities and gum disease.

Do holistic dentists fill cavities?

Yes, but with a less invasive approach using dental lasers, air abrasion, and ozone to minimize tooth structure removal. They may incorporate dietary strategies, nano-hydroxyapatite, and sealants. Most importantly, they'll discuss the root cause of decay and review your dental history, including old X-rays to track changes over time.

How do holistic dentists clean teeth?

At Blodgett Dental Care, we start by reviewing your whole health—life changes, family, work, nutrition—and assess basic metrics like Vitamin D and blood pressure. The cleaning process includes:

• Oral disinfection rinse with ozone water
• Prophy jet system using glycine powder, air, and water
• Soft tissue laser for inflamed gum tissue (if needed)
• Ultrasonic cleaning for tartar removal
• Ozone gas in gum pockets to promote healthy oral microbiome

Patients report this is the most comfortable and effective cleaning they've experienced, without heavy scraping or fluoride applications.

Do holistic dentists do extractions?

Many holistic dentists are skilled in comfortable extractions, though not all offer this service. Dr. Blodgett is one of the world's first 50 dentists certified in the Ghanaati "Guided Open Wound Healing" protocol, which considers jawbone healing quality and its impact on whole body health, thinking far beyond just removing a tooth.

Do holistic dentists do implants?

Many holistic dentists offer implants. Dr. Blodgett switched to ceramic implants in 2017 for their biocompatibility and strength. They can often replace infected teeth in a single visit. At Blodgett Dental Care, we provide comprehensive pre-surgical support including nutritional protocols, I.V. Vitamin C, PEMF therapy, and whole body red/infrared light therapy with our NovoTHOR bed.

What do holistic dentists use for crowns?

Holistic dentists try to help patients avoid crowns when possible, but when necessary, dental ceramics are the most biocompatible option. However, popular ceramics like "e.Max" have shown biological incompatibility in our practice testing. We recommend BioComp testing to verify material compatibility before treatment. Dr. Blodgett's ceramic of choice is "Empress" which used for over 20 years with 100% biological compatibility in our BioComp-tested patients.

Do holistic dentists do dentures?

Some holistic dentists offer dentures. Find a provider who is passionately excited about this service and finds joy in their work ensuring positive results. Ensure materials are compatible with your health through BioComp testing.