Pediatric Functional Dentistry Katy, TX

What Is Functional Dentistry?

Functional dentistry is a special branch of oral health care that takes a whole-body approach to treatment. It considers not just the mouth, but how it affects the rest of the body and vice versa.

Because functional dentistry isn’t officially recognized as a specialty in the dental field, some dentists may define their style and treatment options differently. The words holistic, biologic, and functional can be used interchangeably, but all generally refer to overall wellness, not just that of the teeth and gums.

Functional dentistry is frequently associated with less invasive techniques and approaches to oral health care and even features its own unique procedures and technology.

Hydroxyapatite: An Effective Alternative to Fluoride

Since the 1940s, people around the world have relied upon fluoride added to public water supplies to protect the teeth from harmful cavity-causing acids. Although perfectly safe in appropriate dosages, Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is an effective fluoride alternative for children that offers many of the same benefits to their smile. It is made of manufactured calcium phosphate, which already forms 95 percent of your tooth enamel and 70 percent of your bones.

HAP was developed by NASA in the 1970s to help astronauts who were losing mineral content from their teeth in zero gravity. Today, products that contain HAP such as specialty toothpaste are available for consumer purchase, however although safe, are not FDA or ADA approved.

In addition to over-the-counter consumer products, hydroxyapatite can also be used at your child’s dental appointment as an added layer of protection in place of a traditional fluoride treatment.

Ozone Therapy

When most people hear the word “ozone” they immediately think of the layer of gas that protects the earth from the sun’s harmful UV radiation. However, in dentistry the term ozone means something completely different. Dental ozone uses a safe gas in the form of a topical oil, gas, or water to protect the teeth and gums from viruses, fungi, and bacteria. It also promotes rapid healing and tooth remineralization, and can even treat decay, sensitive teeth, and disinfect during root canals or pulp therapy treatment. It may also even prevent the need for drilling when treating cavities!

The Benefits of Seeing a Pediatric Functional Dentist

Many functional dentists take a conservative approach to oral health care with the goal of minimizing the alteration of existing teeth. This helps preserve their structure, longer.

Functional dentistry takes your child’s whole-body health and medical history into account, helping to educate you and your family about the relationship between the health of your teeth and gums and that of your immune system, digestive system, sleep patterns, and even your cardiovascular health.

Functional dentistry also places a heavy emphasis on using body-safe materials and treatments that are biocompatible and metal-free, making them ideal for patients with certain allergies or sensitivities. Furthermore, the focus on preserving the teeth means functional dental treatments are often much more comfortable, too!

Is My Child a Good Candidate for Pediatric Functional Dentistry?

The great news is that functional dentistry is an excellent choice for any patient, especially those who are focused on overall health and wellness.

Whether your child is dealing with chronic dental problems like gum disease or tooth decay, or you’d simply like to take a minimally invasive, wellness-based approach to their routine checkups and cleanings, a pediatric functional dentist can treat all your concerns, but with a more conservative approach than traditional dentistry.