Put Thermography Where Your Mouth Is - Thermography and Bio Dentistry

Head thermography can reveal a variety of health concerns, and dental issues are often among the most significant findings. In some cases, the thermal imaging patterns observed may indicate the need for a dental evaluation, even when no obvious tooth pain is present. Surprisingly, many dental conditions first appear as seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes, headaches that occur only at certain times, sinus-related reactions like congestion, a runny nose, or coughing, and occasional mild discomfort in the gums or jaw. Because pain is often a late-stage symptom, an infection may be well established before it becomes severe enough to demand attention. Anyone who has experienced a sudden dental infection, especially in the middle of the night or over a weekend, understands the urgency of seeking prompt dental care and relief.

Consistent with the principles of thermography, subtle physiological changes can often be detected before symptoms become noticeable. When thermal imaging reveals areas of inflammation associated with dental structures, it may suggest underlying dysfunction or periodontal infection that warrants further evaluation by a dental professional. For this reason, recommendations for a dental examination may be included in your report. Because thermography evaluates heat patterns and physiological activity, it can also identify areas of concern that may not yet be causing symptoms. In some cases, this may include indications of dental cavitations or areas of compromised bone tissue that deserve additional investigation. Thermography can also be valuable following dental procedures, helping monitor changes over time and providing insight into whether healing is progressing normally or if signs of ongoing inflammation remain.

Your thermography report recommends a dental evaluation, but what does that really mean? Who can help determine whether the findings indicate a significant issue or simply an area to monitor? And where can you find a dentist who understands the physiological insights that thermography can reveal?

A biological dentist is uniquely positioned to bridge that gap, using their understanding of both oral health and thermogram patterns to guide further assessment and care.

How Does a Bio Dentist Differ From a Normal Doctor of Dentistry? 

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) X-ray

A standard dental X-ray provides a flat 2D image of the teeth and surrounding structures, making it an excellent tool for identifying many common dental concerns. However, because the anatomy is compressed into a single image, important details can sometimes be hidden by overlapping structures. A CBCT scan creates a 3D view of the teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and surrounding tissues, allowing the dentist to examine an area from multiple angles and depths. This added perspective can provide valuable information when evaluating complex dental conditions, planning treatment, assessing bone health, or investigating areas that may not be fully visible on conventional x-rays.  3-D imaging can offer a more comprehensive view when additional diagnostic detail is needed.

Ozone Therapy

A non-invasive treatment that utilizes ozone gas (O3) to disinfect and promote healing in dental procedures. Additionally, OT can aid in healing and recovery from a procedure or infection.  It is safe and non-toxic. It can be used in various forms, such as gas, water or oil that can help treat conditions like gum disease and cavities.  

Laser Technology

This advanced technology is used for cavity removal, gum reshaping, teeth whitening, and periodontal disease treatment.  

Calming Tools/Therapies

Neuro-acoustic software, light-blocking eye masks, and calming music can all be used to create a more relaxed state for the patient during a procedure. Additionally, meditation, deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques may be employed putting the patient in control of their experience and addressing anxiety. Sedation dentistry can also be used in extreme cases.  

Assessment of the Immune System Health to Handle Prescribed Treatment

More in-depth questioning regarding historic and current status of health is taken to ensure that the patient can handle any treatment that may be prescribed.  

Bio Compatible Testing

Although bio dentistry shies away from using any harsh chemicals, patients can still have a reaction to materials used during a procedure.  Bio dentists can perform a compatibility test to determine if the materials considered for the procedure are safe to use with a specific patient. This can keep the patient from having an adverse reaction like inflammation, cytotoxicity, or an allergic reaction to any materials considered for use before they are used. 

Silver Fillings are Not Gold (and They Aren’t Really Silver Either)!

How is a Mercury Amalgam Removal Handled By a Bio Dentist?  

Smart Amalgam Removal

Look for a bio dentist that has been certified and skilled in Safe Mercury Amalgam Release Technique (SMART). For more information on the details regarding this technique, please check out the IAOMT website at this link The Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART). In this method of procedure, supplements may be given prior to or after a procedure - specifically, vitamins A, C, and D are important to be at optimal levels in advance of dental procedures.  Binders, such as charcoal, may then be used to bind to any toxic residue that may travel the GI tract after a procedure.  A patient is encouraged to wear an oxygen mask and eye wear during the procedure, as a vacuum is used for any mercury vapors that may occur during the process.

What About a Root Canal Procedure in Bio Dentistry? 

Bio Dental Root Canal Procedure

• No harsh chemicals are used.

• The ligament to the bone is removed with the tooth extraction entirely so that there is no dead tissue left behind to create an infection.

• Laser and ozone therapies are used to kill bacteria during the procedure.

• A blood clot is made to protect the bone.

• Antibiotics are given – only if necessary.

• Titanium or Zirconia ceramic implants may be used. Studies have found that these materials are more bio-accepted by the human body.

An Ounce of Prevention (as ALWAYS) is Worth a Pound of Cure!

Thermography is used as a proactive health screening. Considering your dental health should be a proactive action too, here are some suggestions for safe dental practices that you can choose to implement yourself either daily or prior to or after a procedure.  

Support glutathione & vitamin C optimization with IV the day of or the day after a scheduled procedure.

Make sure digestion and elimination are working well. If sluggish, you may need to consider postponing a non-emergency procedure until you are healthy. 

Gum disease can be avoided with normal blood glucose balance levels.  

Gut health starts in the mouth; what you eat can create issues in the mouth that will need dental attention. Excess bacteria or acid from reflux can erode the surface of teeth leaving them susceptible to infection. 

Good oral care – Just like mom always said, “Be sure to brush twice a day”.  Don’t brush harshly or excessively as both can lead to gum recession.  

Check your breathing – Be sure you are breathing through your nose and not through your mouth. 

Reach out to Insight Holistic Imaging if you have more questions about thermal evaluation from a dental perspective or if you need help preparing your gut for an upcoming dental procedure. Currently, there are 4 different screenings offered by Insight Holistic Imaging that would encompass thermal evaluation of the mouth: Single Region, Advanced Wellness, Full Body, and In-LightN Advanced Thermography.  If you are looking for a bio-dentist skilled in the SMART technique, check out IAOMT.org for more information on finding a dentist near you.