In recent years, healthcare has witnessed a paradigm shift towards a more integrative approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different bodily systems. One field where this biological perspective has been particularly influential is dentistry. Integrative dentistry combines traditional dental practices with therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to oral health. At Santa Teresa Smiles, we believe this approach to dentistry best serves our patients and we will explore how we collaborate with craniosacral therapists, osteopathic doctors, and myofunctional therapists to promote overall well-being.
Collaboration in Action
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral therapy is a practice that focuses on manipulating the craniosacral system, which includes the cerebrospinal fluid, brain, and spinal cord. This gentle, hands-on approach can help address a wide range of issues, from chronic pain to stress relief. Integrative dentists may collaborate with craniosacral therapists to address dental-related issues that have broader implications like breathing related issues, tongue and lip tie, expansion of the palate.
Craniosacral therapists work to release tension and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which can have a direct impact on the alignment of the jaw and the head. For patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or dental-related headaches, the collaboration between an integrative dentist and craniosacral therapist can bring relief and promote overall well-being.
Osteopathic Doctors
Osteopathic medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems and promotes a holistic approach to healthcare. Osteopathic doctors, or DOs, receive specialized training in musculoskeletal health and the body’s structure.
Integrative dentists recognize the significance of the cranial bones and their relationship to oral health. Collaborating with osteopathic doctors can help address structural issues, such as cranial misalignments, which may be contributing to dental problems. Working together with a DO can improves the patients healing time and help the mouth and body work together for optimal health.
Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on the muscles of the face and mouth. This therapy aims to correct oral habits that may be contributing to dental issues, such as tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, and improper swallowing patterns.
We work closely with our in house myofunctional therapist to help patients develop proper oral muscle function. Myofunctional therapy is particularly effective in addressing issues like sleep apnea and snoring, which can have a profound impact on overall health by improving sleep quality and reducing the risk of associated health problems. It is also crucial in patients who are having tongue and lip tie releases.
The Importance for Patients
The collaboration between integrative dentists, craniosacral therapists, osteopathic doctors, and myofunctional therapists is essential for several reasons:
- Biological Impact: Patients benefit from a more comprehensive and integrative approach to their oral health. This approach takes into account not only the immediate dental concerns but also their impact on the whole body.
- Enhanced Treatment Efficacy: By addressing structural, muscular, and craniosacral issues, the combined efforts of these professionals can lead to more effective treatment outcomes. This often results in less reliance on invasive dental procedures.
- Improved Quality of Life: Patients often experience better overall well-being, reduced pain, improved sleep, and relief from chronic conditions as a result of this collaborative approach.
Integrative dentistry, when combined with the expertise of craniosacral therapists, osteopathic doctors, and myofunctional therapists, provides patients with a highly effective approach to oral health and overall well-being. By recognizing the interconnectedness of different bodily systems, this collaborative model promotes health at its core, ensuring that the mouth is not isolated from the rest of the body. As healthcare continues to embrace a holistic perspective, the integrative dentistry model, along with its collaborative efforts, is a testament to the power of a well-rounded, patient-centered approach to healthcare.
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