Homeopathy at the Dentist

Homeopathy is a sometimes controversial treatment option.  How can a couple of tablets that, scientifically speaking contain no active ingredient, offer anything more than a placebo?  But those who use homeopathy swear by the miraculous healing that can be achieved.

Homeopathic dentistry is a subset of holistic dentistry, a way of thinking that treats patients as whole people, not simply a set of teeth.  How does homeopathy help the whole patient with dental issues?

Arnica is one of the most widely used remedies, but there are many others that can be helpful in various situations.  Whether it’s Aconite for shock and panic, Zingiber for nausea or gagging, or Gelsemium for nerves that prompt frequent restroom trips, there is a homeopathic remedy to help make any treatment more comfortable.  Chamomilla is excellent for reducing numbness after local anesthesia, while Ledum can ease the soreness from the injection.

Many procedures involve the tiny tubules inside the root of the tooth and sensitivity is common after these treatments.  Hypericum is a useful remedy for pain arising from injury to a nerve and is especially good after a root canal.  Magnesium phosphorus is another good remedy for pain and has been called “homeopathic aspirin”.  Teeth that are sensitive to extreme temperatures can be eased with Plantago, and the tincture can be applied directly to a cavity to alleviate pain.

Many dental advances have allowed dentists to do in one visit what used to take many visits over several months.  Many people today are seeking “perfect” smiles using crown, inlays, veneers, and whitening.  The problem with these advancements is that doing so much at one time requires keeping the mouth open for extended periods, which can cause discomfort in some patients.  Magnesium Phosphorus and Causticum are both good remedies for cramping or problems opening the mouth.  Give Arnica for soreness and bruising, and a few drops of Hypericum and Calendula in a glass of warm water is a soothing mouthwash that eases dryness and discomfort after procedures.

Chamomilla has provided relief to many teething babies.  Help a teething baby before the pain starts by watching for red cheeks, which is often a sign that baby’s temperature is beginning to rise.  Also, if baby is old enough for solid food, do not give milk after midday.  The baby’s increase in temperature can trigger the milk to curdle, causing tummy upset, which can make baby even more fussy.

Nux Vomica is a good remedy for anxiety that causes nausea or vomiting, especially in children.  If you see a cavity, Plantago tincture can be applied directly to the tooth.

Use Ruta to ease discomfort from braces, and Staphysagria or Calendula if the wires cut into the inside of the mouth.  Ruta is also a good option for a tooth that feels loose after a blow to the mouth.

Use Silica 6C twice a day after surgery to encourage bone splinters to exfoliate.  For implants, however, skip the Silica and go with Ruta, as Silica can cause implants to be rejected.

Pain and swelling are the most common problems encountered after a procedure, especially procedures requiring local anesthetic.  Take Arnica just before and again after the procedure.  Arnica is also a good option for any kind of injury from trauma

There are several remedies for toothache, depending on the specific symptoms.  If you have:

• Throbbing pain – Belladonna
• Sensitivity to heat – Pulsatilla
• Sensitivity to cold – Coffea
• Pain aggravated by clenching – Staphisagria
• If rubbing the cheek helps – Merc Sol
• Pain after being in cold, dry wind – Aconite
• Pain accompanied by bruising – Arnica
• Shooting pain – Magnesium phosphate
• Pain with swelling or abscess – Silica
• Pain that originates in the nerve – Hypericum or Chamomilla

Not all tooth pain originates in the tooth, gum disease can also cause toothache.  Gum disease is a bit more complicated than most of the issues in this article, so if you are new to homeopathy, you may want to consult with a homeopathic dentist for the best remedy for your situation.

If you are bleeding and the blood is bright red, use Phosphorus.  If the blood has a bluish tinge, go with Lachesis.

If you have a tooth extracted and develop pain and an unpleasant smell in the space, these are signs of infection.  Gunpowder will ease the pain and stop the infection.

If you have an abscess, Belladonna can help bring it down.  If the abscess is severe and causing swelling, Myristica will produce amazing results.  If the abscess is recurrent, opt for Hepar Sulph 6C for quick relief.  Higher potencies will cause the pus to drain through the skin, while the lower potency will enable to lymphatic system to drain the abscess.

Ulcers can be relieved with Feverfew.  If sores tend to recur, continue Feverfew for a few days after the sores are gone to help stop the cycle.  For cold sores, go with Rhus Tox.

If you’re having amalgam fillings removed, Merc Sol can help you flush the mercury from your body. 

For a specific homeopathic protocol to address your dental needs, call Dr. Vinograd at 619-630-7174 for a free consultation.