The author of the article
Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD, 31 years experience
Have you ever noticed neck discomfort, headaches, or a general feeling that “something isn’t right” after dental treatment? Over my 31 years of practice, I’ve seen this happen many times. My name is Dr. Boris Lipovetsky, and I practice holistic dentistry with a focus on how dental health affects the entire body. I treat hidden infections, use biocompatible materials, and aim to provide care that supports overall wellness — not just the teeth.
What Is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic (biological) dentistry views the mouth as part of the entire body, not as an isolated system. Treatment is approached with a focus on supporting overall health and the immune system while minimizing exposure to toxins and addressing hidden infections.
Instead of simply “fixing the tooth and moving on,” we focus on identifying the underlying cause of the problem — whether it relates to nutrition, stress, toxins, bite alignment, or systemic inflammation.
Is this backed by science?
Yes. Latent inflammation in the oral cavity can quietly fuel serious systemic diseases.
Chronic periodontitis allows pathogenic bacteria to penetrate the bloodstream, significantly accelerating atherosclerosis (1).
In patients with diabetes, periodontitis further impairs glycemic control. The presence of periodontitis raises the risk of developing diabetes by 26%, while diabetes itself increases the likelihood of severe periodontitis by 24–34% (2).
That is why we eliminate all foci of infection and work exclusively with biocompatible materials.
How Is the Holistic Approach Different in Practice?
Biocompatible Materials
We have eliminated mercury amalgams, metals (galvanism), and composites containing BPA. These materials can cause ongoing low-level toxic load, galvanic currents in the mouth, and hidden inflammation. We use ceramics, zirconia, and individually tested composites (including blood compatibility testing).
Minimally Invasive Protocols
We use an operating microscope, lasers, and modern adhesive technologies to remove only the affected tissue and preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. How it works: the laser sterilizes and seals dentinal tubules; the microscope reveals the tiniest details invisible to the naked eye.
Prevention First
We regularly monitor the oral microbiome, strengthen enamel with nano-hydroxyapatite (the natural mineral of enamel), and provide individualized hygiene and nutrition guidance to maintain pH balance. Result: significantly less decay, gum inflammation, and need for complex treatment. Many of our patients who used to treat 3–4 teeth per year now come only for check-ups and cleanings every 6–8 months.
Whole-Body Approach to Dental Care
The teeth and oral cavity are not an isolated system. Chronic inflammation in the teeth or gums, an improper bite, and TMJ dysfunction can place ongoing stress on the nervous, immune, and hormonal systems. That is why we take a broader approach — evaluating the bite at the neuromuscular level, improving jaw joint function, and addressing sources of chronic infection.
What Does a Holistic Dentist Do?
Over 31 years of practice, I have seen how eliminating hidden foci noticeably improves patients’ overall well-being.
Mercury from old fillings constantly vaporizes and accumulates in the body, causing fatigue and reduced immunity. We remove them using the strict SMART protocol (IAOMT). We provide the patient with an oxygen mask, powerful suction, special isolation, air filters, and cooling. This protects you and the dental team almost completely from heavy metal vapors.
The laser selectively destroys pathogenic bacteria and inflamed tissue without affecting healthy areas.
Results I have observed for years:
Bleeding and gum swelling disappear after just 1–2 procedures.
Gum pockets shrink significantly.
Faster healing and fewer recurrences.
Nutritional Counseling
We provide personalized recommendations:
which foods and micronutrients truly strengthen enamel and gums, reduce inflammation, and support proper oral pH.
Fluoride Alternatives
Some people experience increased tooth sensitivity or accumulation from fluoride. We use nano-hydroxyapatite – the substance that makes up 97% of natural tooth enamel. It actually restores enamel instead of just coating it with a film. We also use ozone therapy – a powerful natural antiseptic with zero toxins.
Why I Became a Holistic Dentist
1988–2012. Classic Dentistry
I graduated from Perm State Medical University (1988) and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in the USA (1994). For more than 18 years I ran a successful practice following traditional standards: complex restorations, implants, and prosthetics – everything strictly by the book and protocols.
The Problem I Could No Longer Ignore
Despite technically successful treatment, many patients still returned with symptoms that traditional dentistry could not fully explain:
chronic fatigue
frequent tension headaches
recurring gum inflammation
This forced me to look for answers beyond a standard approach.
Turning Point
I saw a clear connection between dental materials (especially mercury amalgam), hidden foci of inflammation in the jaws, and systemic inflammatory processes in the body.
Today
Together with my wife (a specialist in integrative medicine and nutrition), we created an approach that combines precise dentistry with care for the entire body.
My goal is not only to treat teeth, but to help patients address the underlying causes of fatigue, headaches, and other chronic symptoms so they can feel healthier overall.
Research continues to show strong connections between oral health and overall health:
Bacteria from the gums can enter the bloodstream and have been found in atherosclerotic plaques (1).
Chronic inflammation in the mouth has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (2).
According to Harvard School of Dental Medicine, treating gum disease may help reduce systemic inflammation and improve blood sugar control in patients with diabetes (3).
Our Holistic Dentistry Cases
Case 1
A patient came to our office with several severely damaged and mobile upper teeth. Over time, this condition had contributed to chronic gum inflammation, difficulty chewing, TMJ dysfunction, headaches, and nutritional deficiencies.
Treatment
After a comprehensive evaluation, I developed a biological treatment plan focused on both oral and overall health.
The severely damaged teeth, which had become sources of chronic infection and inflammation, were carefully removed.
Zirconia implants were placed as a biocompatible alternative to metal implants. Zirconia is a ceramic material that does not create galvanic currents and is often chosen for its compatibility with the body.
Crowns were then used to restore proper bite height and jaw alignment, helping reduce excessive strain on the TMJ, neck, and surrounding muscles.
Result
Following treatment, the patient reported significant relief from headaches and jaw tension. Chewing and speaking became comfortable again, and healing progressed smoothly without complications during the following months. Learn more about our biological implant protocol and why we use zirconia implants instead of titanium.
Case 2
A patient came to our office with a chronic infection in the roots of two teeth — a constant source of inflammation and toxic stress on the body that can affect overall health, including the heart, joints, and energy levels.
Treatment
After comprehensive digital diagnostics, I:
Removed the problematic teeth and carefully disinfected the sockets with antiseptic treatment.
Performed ozone therapy — a powerful non-invasive method used to sterilize bone tissue and target bacteria and fungi that traditional antibiotics may not fully address.
Used PRF (platelet-rich fibrin created from the patient’s own blood) to support healing and stimulate healthy bone regeneration.
Placed zirconia implants — fully ceramic, metal-free implants known for their high biocompatibility and minimal impact on the immune system.
Secured zirconia crowns that naturally matched the patient’s existing teeth in both color and shape.
Result
We successfully eliminated the source of chronic infection, and the patient was very happy with the appearance of their smile. The patient also reported improvements in overall comfort and well-being following treatment.
Learn more about how ozone therapy works and whether it may be appropriate for your treatment plan.
When Should You Consider Visiting a Holistic Dentist?
You practice biohacking or follow an integrative approach to health and want a doctor who shares those values.
You have sensitivities to metals, fluoride, or materials containing BPA.
You are planning a pregnancy and want to minimize toxic exposure for yourself and your future child.
You experience unexplained chronic fatigue, migraines, or neck and back pain, which may be connected to TMJ dysfunction or hidden dental infections.
You have diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, or autoimmune diseases and want to reduce systemic inflammation.
You have been advised to undergo a tooth extraction, root canal, or extended antibiotic treatment and would like a second opinion focused on minimally invasive care, laser dentistry, and tooth preservation whenever possible.
Holistic dentistry provides the same level of professional dental care as traditional dentistry, but with a broader focus on the connection between oral health and the rest of the body.
What Is the Difference Between Holistic and Traditional Dentistry?
| Aspect | Holistic Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Philosophy | Find the root cause and analyze how it affects the whole body | Treat the local symptom |
| Materials | Biocompatible (zirconia, ceramics, BPA- and mercury-free) | Standard (including metals and BPA) |
| Diagnostics | CBCT, TENS, overall health + bite assessment | X-ray + visual exam |
| Patient Role | Active (nutrition, hygiene, personal responsibility) | Passive |
| Gum Treatment | Laser, ozone therapy and probiotics | Antibiotics + surgery |
| Dead Tooth (Root Canal) | Often a hidden infection source — we diagnose thoroughly and, if needed, remove with biological regeneration | Preserve at all costs (the gold standard) |
Holistic dentistry can cost more upfront due to the use of premium materials, advanced technology, and a more comprehensive diagnostic approach. However, many patients see it as a long-term investment in their overall health — helping reduce the risk of hidden complications, ongoing discomfort, and repeated dental treatment over time.
Want to understand what treatment may look like in your specific case?
Schedule a consultation, and we will perform a comprehensive evaluation and create a clear, personalized treatment plan.
FAQ
Do I have to remove all old amalgam fillings?
Not always. We perform diagnostics and recommend safe removal using the SMART protocol (IAOMT) only when there are symptoms of toxic load.
What do holistic dentists use instead of fluoride?
Nano-hydroxyapatite (the main mineral of enamel), ozone therapy, and BPA-free sealants. This is especially important for children (protecting the developing brain from neurotoxins).
Do you perform root canal treatments?
We try to save living teeth with minimally invasive methods. If a tooth cannot be saved, we recommend removal, ozone sanitation and zirconia implants. A dead tooth often becomes a hidden source of infection.
Is holistic dentistry more expensive?
Yes, at the beginning, due to premium materials, lasers, ozone units, and in-depth diagnostics. But it is an investment in long-term health. We also work with the CareCredit program – it allows you to pay for treatment over 6–24 months with no interest.
Is holistic dentistry safe?
Absolutely. We are licensed dentists (DDS/DMD + additional training with IAOMT, IABDM, etc.). Treatment follows high medical standards but with a broader view and advanced protocols.