There are various types of dental hygiene in the world.

The most common ones include two main categories: cosmetic and deep cleaning. A less-known and almost nonexistent type involves a process where both deep cleaning and cosmetic procedures are performed simultaneously or progressively in a relaxing, pain-free environment without time pressure.

Dental hygienists are often perceived more as assistants for achieving a beautiful smile rather than as health professionals specializing in the prevention and treatment of gum inflammation and cavity reduction. Information about periodontal issues is often poorly communicated, delayed, or misrepresented, leaving people confused, irritated by dominant staff behavior, or overwhelmed by the variety of dental cleaning tools available.

Like many services, dental hygiene sometimes becomes a commercial endeavor, lacking sufficient emphasis on individualized care tailored to the patient’s health needs. Dental hygiene is a non-medical healthcare field that emerged from dentists’ recognition of the importance of preventing tooth decay and periodontal disease. When patients exhibit symptoms, dental hygienists work to eliminate the root causes of these problems.

However, is this feasible in today’s fast-paced world, where hygienists handle eight or more clients daily?

In the 20th century, Dr. Weston Price dedicated years to demonstrating how malnutrition and poor lifestyle choices lead to chronic dental and jaw issues. Can a dentist address these problems during a 15–20 minute preventive check-up? Can a hygienist resolve them during a 50-minute session with patients suffering from severe tartar buildup and bleeding gums? Without adequate education on nutrition and inflammation prevention, can patients truly improve their oral health? It’s essential to acknowledge that quality treatment and education require time—miracles cannot be expected without it.

Does today’s dental hygiene focus on addressing the root causes of dental diseases or merely suppressing symptoms? Many patients return every six months for 30–50-minute sessions without significant improvement. Often, they are inadequately instructed on proper techniques for using cleaning tools like interdental brushes, employing them only before appointments to avoid reprimands. Is this approach truly helpful or beneficial in the long run?

Holistic dental hygiene aims to tackle the root causes of oral health issues. It integrates knowledge about the human body, oral microbiome, and soft tissue healing to select appropriate treatment methods and materials while presenting patients with comprehensive information in an encouraging manner. This motivates patients to engage in long-term care rather than just preparing for visits.

Holistic practices cater to demanding clients with diverse needs by offering:

• A calm and relaxing environment during treatment.

• Empathetic and assertive care providers.

• Adequate time for thorough and pain-free care using modern tools.

• Focus on treating root causes, especially for severe periodontal conditions.

• Efficient sessions that maximize results within one visit, saving time and money.

• Avoidance of toxic substances like alcohol, chlorhexidine, fluoride, etc., favoring safe alternatives available at quality pharmacies or herbal stores.

• Simplified home care routines.

• Emphasis on nutrition as part of oral health care through real foods, minerals, and lifestyle changes.

• Guidance based on traditional Chinese medicine principles for self-sufficiency and minimal reliance on hygienists.

  
  

  

  Lucia after 4.th year of holistic dental practice

  
  

Years ago, this vision led me to burnout multiple times as an employee. However, holistic dental hygiene offers sustainability without adverse effects on both hygienists’ and clients’ health.

:)

Side effects for hygienists: Back pain, neck strain, burnout, irritability, apathy, resignation.

Side effects for patients: Demotivation, discomfort, frustration with hygiene routines, worsening oral health over time.