Our Core Principles of Holistic Dentistry
We follow three key principles that define our biologic dental philosophy:
- Use biocompatible or bio-inert materials in all procedure
- Prioritize the safety of patients, our team, and the environment
- Recognize how oral health connects to total-body wellness
These values inform every treatment recommendation and guide how we care for each patient.
What Does Comprehensive Dentistry Involve?
Our holistic care begins with a comprehensive evaluation that includes six core screenings. These assessments allow us to understand your unique risks and address potential issues before they affect your overall health.
- Health Risk Assessment – We examine how oral conditions may be influencing your general health.
- Head and Neck Exam – This includes both internal and external cancer screenings for early detection.
- Airway Health Screening – We assess signs of restricted breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
- Occlusal Screening – Your bite function is evaluated to ensure proper balance and comfort.
- Restorative Screening – We identify decayed or damaged teeth while verifying that proposed materials are biocompatible.
- Periodontal Screening – Your gums and jawbone are carefully evaluated to detect signs of disease or inflammation.
These screenings allow us to offer proactive, safe care with long-term wellness in mind.
Natural Dentistry or Holistic Dentistry?
Though used interchangeably, “natural” and “holistic” dentistry can reflect different approaches. At Top Down Dental, we lean into holistic care because it best describes our comprehensive, biocompatible treatment philosophy. However, our focus on the body’s healing capabilities and nutrition might also be considered “natural dentistry.”
Healthy Dental Restorations Without Mercury
Top Down Dental is a mercury-free dental office committed to using safe, non-toxic materials. We never use metal amalgam fillings that contain mercury. Instead, we offer durable, natural-looking alternatives like composite resin or ceramic fillings.
Our holistic protocols are shaped in part by Dr. Nehawandian’s professional memberships. She is an active member of:
- The International Association of Mercury Safe Dentists (IAMSD)
- The International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM)
- The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT)
These organizations promote the safe removal of mercury fillings and emphasize the importance of using biocompatible, fluoride-free materials. Through Dr. Nehawandian’s affiliations, our entire practice adheres to the highest standards in mercury-safe and biologic dentistry.
Supporting the Body’s Natural Healing
Holistic care supports your body’s ability to heal itself. This includes:
- Encouraging saliva production to help remineralize enamel
- Advising on hydration and nutrient-rich foods
- Recommending avoidance of sugar-rich, inflammatory diets
We also use ozone therapy, which neutralizes harmful bacteria and acids to help your teeth naturally repair minor decay.
The DNA Appliance for Sleep Apnea
The DNA Appliance is a holistic solution for sleep apnea that helps reshape the jaw and airway. Unlike traditional oral appliances that simply hold the airway open, the DNA Appliance encourages long-term structural changes, which may help patients reduce or eliminate reliance on CPAP.
Drug-Free Relaxation with NuCalm
NuCalm is our preferred method of relaxation dentistry. It leverages your body’s own calming mechanisms to reduce dental anxiety without the side effects of pharmaceutical sedation. Patients remain clear-headed and calm throughout their visits.
Understanding the Body-Mouth Connection
Holistic dentistry recognizes that problems in your mouth can influence, or reflect, conditions elsewhere. For example:
- Gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and more
- TMJ disorder can contribute to headaches, vertigo, and back pain
- Medications and chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes may impact dental health
- Stress and depression can lead to neglect, grinding, or unhealthy oral habits
This interconnectedness shapes how we evaluate and treat every patient.
Solving Mysterious or Chronic Conditions
Unexplained illnesses may be linked to oral health. We help patients uncover hidden causes of symptoms such as fatigue, inflammation, and systemic infections.
Common dental triggers include:
- Untreated oral infections
- Failing root canals
- Toxic or allergenic dental materials
- TMJ dysfunction linked to migraines or chronic pain
We use advanced tools like Biolase lasers to eliminate infection and restore health.
Your Holistic Dental Team in San Jose
Dr. Rana Alan leads our holistic care team with a compassionate, integrative approach. She is supported by Dr. Nancy Nehawandian, whose education and memberships in organizations such as IAMSD, IABDM, and IAOMT ensure our practice stays at the forefront of biologic dental protocols.
If you’re seeking whole-body dental care rooted in science and natural health, schedule your consultation at Top Down Dental in Los Gatos today by calling (408) 354-5600 or using our online contact form.
