What is Health Centered Dentistry?
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by constant advice from your dentist, and a sense that you’re in a constant state of disrepair? Traditional dentistry reacts to the presence of disease and aims to control it. It focuses on repair and treating symptoms and effects of disease, but does not concentrate on prevention and achieving health. Our dental office seeks to focus on the patient’s whole health and lifestyle and not just symptoms. We call this biorejuvenation or bioesthetic dentistry.
In a Disease Control Model, the relationship between dentist and patient is codependent. Patients rely on dentists to “fix” their problems and dentists rely on patients to keep having those problems to fix. This model encourages patients to be passive, or not actively involve themselves in their own health decision-making. Instead, the role is that of the dental office to control the disease.
Some dentists grow large practices where they do minimal treatment on a large number of patients. They do not prioritize meaningful and lasting relationships centered on joint trust and open communication. Fortunately, Dr. Schweifler and his team commit themselves to partnering with their patients to achieve HEALTH, not just control the disease.
In a Health-Promoting Model, the relationship between dentist and patient is interdependent. Patients seek and gain education from their dentists and become active participants in achieving great health. In this system, patients set their own health goals and the dentist helps them become as healthy as they choose to be.
Why Choose Dr. Schweifler?
We believe that gum disease and dental decay are nearly 100% preventable with healthy upkeep and nutrition. Our team also believes that patients would prefer NO DENTISTRY. We believe patients would prefer freedom from the dentist and more time and money to avail of other life pursuits. A health-centered approach only works when the dentist is able to nurture a patient’s sense of responsibility so they can become independently healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some traditional practices focus mainly on quick fixes rather than long-term health?
Many conventional offices deal with high patient volumes and limited time per visit. They might concentrate on immediate repairs that address pain or damage but don’t always delve into the prevention aspect. This can lead to a mindset where patients come in only when something goes wrong.
Over time, it builds a pattern of “patchwork dentistry” rather than sustained oral health. Health-centered practices challenge this norm by emphasizing causes, lifestyle, and comprehensive care.
What role does patient responsibility play in health-centered dentistry?
Patients take ownership of their daily habits and choices, which directly impact their oral health. This includes consistent brushing, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and scheduling checkups before problems arise. When patients understand how these actions affect their teeth and gums, they’re more likely to remain motivated. Dentists guide and educate, but true success comes when patients follow through at home. This collaborative approach helps prevent disease rather than continuously fixing new issues.
Are routine cleanings and checkups still important in a health-centered approach?
Yes, preventive visits remain crucial. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing might miss. Checkups allow the dentist to catch small issues early and address them before they escalate. They also provide an opportunity to discuss any changes in nutrition, habits, or health conditions that may affect the mouth. These visits form the backbone of prevention and are essential for maintaining optimal oral health.
Can health-centered dentistry still address restorative or cosmetic needs?
Absolutely, a health-centered practice covers everything from prevention to restorations and cosmetic treatments. The main difference is the focus on long-term benefits while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
If a restoration is necessary, the goal is to fix the root cause so the problem doesn’t keep recurring. Cosmetic treatments focus on enhancing appearance while ensuring overall oral health, which remains a priority. By looking at the whole picture, such practices balance aesthetics with lasting wellness.
What should someone expect when transitioning from a disease control model to a health-centered approach?
A transition to a health-centered dental approach focuses more on prevention than just treating problems as they occur. You’ll spend more time learning about proper oral hygiene techniques and lifestyle factors that affect your dental health. Your dentist will create a personalized prevention plan, and appointments may include more discussions about nutrition, habits, and long-term oral health goals.
How does Dr. Schweifler’s team apply health-centered principles to their daily practice?
We concentrate on prevention first, guiding patients to develop better oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. Our team prioritizes patient education and ensures everyone understands the reasoning behind recommendations. They value open dialogue so patients feel empowered to ask questions and make decisions about their care.
When needed, procedures like fillings or implants focus on durability and underlying causes. By partnering with patients, we aim for solutions that stand the test of time rather than short-term fixes.
We believe this shift from standard “Disease Control” dentistry to “Health Centered” dentistry is a unique approach in Los Altos and its surrounding communities. Visit us whether you’re seeking a family dentist, restorative dental care, dental implants, or cosmetic dentistry services. Contact our office today at (650) 489-4620 or request an appointment online.