Root canals are one of the most common dental procedures performed in the United States—saving millions of teeth every year. Yet despite their long scientific track record, you may have noticed that some holistic or biological dentists refuse to perform root canals.
Why? What makes them avoid a treatment that traditional dentists consider safe, predictable, and effective?
If you’re confused—or even worried—you’re not alone. At FortuneSmilesDental in San Jose, we meet many patients who have heard conflicting information about root canals. Some of them come across viral videos or “natural dentistry” websites that claim root canals are dangerous. Others worry about the long-term effects of infection or materials used in dental procedures.
This article is designed to provide clear, trustworthy, science-backed information, while respecting the concerns of patients who prefer holistic approaches.
Let’s dive in.
🦷 What Exactly Is Holistic Dentistry?
Holistic dentistry (sometimes called biological dentistry) views oral health as part of the overall health system. The philosophy is centered around:
✔ Minimizing toxins
(e.g., avoiding certain metals or chemicals)
✔ Using “biocompatible” materials
(based on each patient’s sensitivities)
✔ Emphasizing body-wide health connections
✔ Preventing or eliminating infection without synthetic materials
Many patients choose holistic dentistry because they prefer a more natural, whole-body approach. And that’s completely valid—your comfort and beliefs matter.
However, when it comes to root canals, this philosophy leads many holistic dentists to avoid the procedure entirely.
❗ Why Holistic Dentists Avoid Root Canals
There are three main reasons holistic dentists choose not to perform root canal therapy.
1. Concern About Residual Bacteria in Tooth Canals
Holistic philosophy argues that because the tooth has microscopic tubules, some bacteria might remain even after treatment. They worry these bacteria could:
- Release toxins
- Trigger immune reactions
- Contribute to systemic illness
🔬 However, scientific evidence disagrees.
Modern root canal therapy removes infected pulp, disinfects the canal, and fills it with safe, biocompatible materials. Studies show that:
- Over 99.9% of bacteria are eliminated
- Any remaining bacteria are sealed off and rendered inactive
- There is no proven link between root canals and systemic diseases
The American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) have both thoroughly reviewed decades of research, confirming root canal safety.
2. Misinterpretation of the 1920s Weston Price Study
Many holistic arguments against root canals originate from a nearly 100-year-old study by Dr. Weston Price claiming root canals cause systemic illness.
But modern scientists have shown:
- The study was not properly controlled
- The methods were flawed
- The conclusions were unreliable
- Modern sterilization and material science didn’t exist at the time
Today’s root canal procedures are dramatically different from those in 1920.
3. Belief That Extraction Is Safer
Many holistic dentists prefer tooth extraction over root canal therapy. Their argument is that removing the entire tooth eliminates all infection risk.
But extraction comes with its own long-term consequences:
- Loss of bone in the jaw
- Shifting of nearby teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- The need for expensive replacement (implants or bridges)
Meanwhile, root canals preserve your natural tooth, which is almost always best.
🧪 What Does Modern Science Actually Say?
Let’s look at what current, high-level dental research has proven.
✔ Root Canals Are Safe and Effective
Root canals have a success rate of 85–97% and remain one of the most evidence-based procedures in dentistry.
✔ No Link Between Root Canals and Systemic Disease
Major studies show no connection to:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Chronic fatigue
- Arthritis
These claims are widespread online but scientifically unsupported.
✔ Modern Technology Makes Root Canals Even Safer
At FortuneSmilesDental, we use:
- 3D digital imaging
- High-tech rotary instruments
- Advanced disinfection protocols
- Biocompatible sealing materials
- Precision placement for maximum comfort
This is nothing like the dentistry of the early 1900s.
❓ What Happens If You Avoid a Root Canal?
Avoiding treatment for an infected tooth can lead to serious problems:
⚠️ Infection spreading into the jawbone
⚠️ Abscess formation
⚠️ Severe pain
⚠️ Tooth loss
⚠️ Higher long-term treatment cost
If the infection spreads, it may cause systemic issues—ironically, the very thing holistic dentists are trying to avoid.
🏥 A Balanced, Science-Backed Approach: FortuneSmilesDental in San Jose
At FortuneSmilesDental, we understand both sides:
- Some patients want natural, minimal-intervention dentistry
- Others want the fastest, most evidence-based solution
That’s why our approach blends safety, science, and patient comfort.
🌿 For Patients Who Prefer a Holistic Sensibility
We offer options like:
- Biocompatible crown materials (zirconia, ceramic)
- Conservative tooth-saving treatments
- Minimally invasive procedures
- Mercury-free dentistry
- Gentle anesthetic techniques
- Natural healing support after treatment
You get the whole-body reassurance you want—without compromising the science.
🦷 For Patients Who Need Root Canal Therapy
Our San Jose clinic uses the most advanced tools available:
- Digital imaging for precision
- Rotary endodontic instruments
- Laser or ultrasonic disinfection (when appropriate)
- Comfortable, painless numbing
- Custom crowns designed to last
- Compassionate care from start to finish
We also offer emergency root canal appointments for sudden, severe tooth pain.
🧼 What If You Choose Extraction Instead?
We fully respect patient autonomy. If you choose extraction, we offer:
✔ Dental implants
✔ Bone grafting (if needed)
✔ Natural-looking crowns
✔ High-quality bridges
✔ Honest, transparent guidance
We help you choose the option aligned with your values and long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are root canals safe?
+
Organizations such as the American Dental Association and the American Association of Endodontists confirm that
there is no scientific evidence linking root canals to systemic diseases. At Fortune Smiles Dental Care, we use
modern disinfection techniques and biocompatible materials to ensure the safest possible treatment.
Why do some holistic dentists avoid root canals?
+
They worry this may affect whole-body health. However, these concerns are based on outdated studies that have
since been disproven. Modern root canal therapy disinfects and seals the tooth effectively, and research shows
no connection between treated teeth and systemic illness.
Is extraction better than a root canal?
+
shifting of nearby teeth, and eventually the need for implants or bridges. Root canal therapy preserves your
natural tooth structure and maintains jawbone health. At Fortune Smiles Dental Care, we always review all treatment
options so you can make an informed decision.
Can I choose biocompatible materials for my crown after a root canal?
+
we use high-quality zirconia and ceramic crowns that are both biocompatible and aesthetically natural. These materials
are metal-free and ideal for patients who prefer a holistic-sensitive approach.
What if I’m still uncomfortable with getting a root canal?
+
answer all your questions, and discuss alternative options. If extraction is your preferred choice, we’ll help you
plan for implants, bridges, or other restorative solutions that support long-term oral health.
How does Fortune Smiles Dental balance holistic concerns with modern dentistry?
+
biocompatible materials, and advanced technologies while still respecting your preferences. Whether you prefer a
natural approach or state-of-the-art treatment, we tailor your care to your individual needs.
🔚 Conclusion: Respecting Concerns While Providing the Truth
Holistic dentists avoid root canals based on concerns about long-term bacterial exposure and whole-body effects. These concerns come from an older philosophy—not modern science.
Today’s research, combined with advanced technology, confirms that root canals are safe, effective, and often the best way to save a natural tooth.
At FortuneSmilesDental in San Jose, we believe in:
✔ Respecting patient questions
✔ Providing clear, scientific explanations
✔ Using the safest, most comfortable methods
✔ Offering alternatives when appropriate
✔ Helping you make informed decisions
Your health choices should be empowered—not pressured. And we’re here to guide you every step of the way.