In recent years, a paradigm shift has occurred in dentistry that goes beyond merely addressing dental issues and focuses on the connection between oral health and overall well-being. Comprehensive oral-systemic dentistry, also known as functional dentistry, has emerged as a holistic approach to dental care, recognizing that oral health is intricately linked to the health of the entire body. This approach aims to assist each patient in achieving and maintaining long-term dental health, wellness, and a beautiful smile by identifying and addressing the root causes of inflammation that can impact both oral and overall health. “The mouth is a window to a person’s overall health and oral health imbalances are often a warning sign that more is going on with their health. We often collaborate with other members of the healthcare team and look at lab work to help guide our patients toward finding answers and solutions. It is rewarding to help people improve not only their smile but their long-term health and quality of life.” Dr. Sarah Tevis Poteet at Dallas Functional Dentistry 

Understanding the Oral-Systemic Connection 

The oral cavity is not isolated from the rest of the body; it is, in fact, a vital gateway to a person’s overall health. Numerous studies have highlighted the significant relationship between oral health and various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, auto-immune conditions, cancer, and pregnancy complications, among others. When the mouth is inflamed due to periodontal disease or other oral issues, harmful bacteria, and toxins can enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammation and potential health complications. 

Comprehensive Oral-Systemic Dentistry: The Functional Dentistry Approach 

1. Medical history: Functional dentistry takes a whole-body approach by understanding that symptoms in the mouth may be indicative of underlying systemic issues. During the initial comprehensive examination, the dentist not only assesses oral health but also takes into consideration the patient’s medical history, medication and supplement list, lifestyle, nutrition, sleep/airway, and overall health status. 
2. Identifying Root Causes: Rather than merely treating symptoms, functional dentists seek to identify the underlying causes of dental problems. This involves investigating factors such as diet, stress levels, sleep quality, and any other elements that may contribute to inflammation and affect overall health. 
3. Collaborative Care: Functional dentists work closely with other healthcare providers, including medical doctors, nutritionists, naturopaths, chiropractors, and myofunctional therapists to develop an integrated treatment plan. This collaboration ensures that the patient receives comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their health. 
4. Preventive Measures: Prevention is a key pillar of comprehensive oral-systemic dentistry. Functional dentists focus on educating patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices and making healthy lifestyle choices to prevent dental and systemic issues. 
5. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Whenever possible, functional dentists opt for minimally invasive procedures to preserve healthy tooth structure and avoid unnecessary trauma to the oral cavity. This approach aligns with the goal of maintaining long-term dental health.
6. Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and their dental health needs vary. Functional dentistry emphasizes creating personalized treatment plans, often using salivary microbial testing, which caters to the individual’s specific requirements, ensuring the best possible outcomes. 

Benefits of Comprehensive Oral-Systemic Dentistry 

1. Improved Oral Health: By addressing the root causes of inflammation, functional dentistry helps patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health, reducing the risk of dental issues such as cavities and periodontal disease. 
2. Enhanced Overall Health: The oral-systemic connection means that improving oral health can positively impact overall health. By reducing inflammation in the mouth, patients may experience improved systemic health and a reduced risk of related medical conditions. 
3. Long-Term Solutions: Functional dentistry does not offer quick fixes but focuses on sustainable, long-term solutions. By targeting the underlying causes of oral health problems, patients are less likely to experience recurring issues. 
4. Empowerment through Education: Functional dentists empower patients by educating them about their oral health and its connection to their overall well-being. Armed with knowledge, patients can make informed decisions to improve their health and quality of life. 

Comprehensive oral-systemic dentistry represents a groundbreaking approach to dental care that goes beyond treating symptoms and addresses the underlying causes of oral health issues. By recognizing the link between oral health and overall well-being, functional dentistry strives to improve patients’ quality of life, providing them with the knowledge and tools to achieve long-term dental health, wellness, and a beautiful smile. Embracing this comprehensive approach to dentistry can lead to a healthier, happier life for patients and a brighter future for the field of oral healthcare.