Learning Objectives:

•  Identify the areas on the Wheel of Health and discuss the various factors contributing to oral and overall health, going beyond the oral/systemic connection
• Name three foods/ herbs that have antimicrobial properties, and explain their impact on oral health/disease
• Name two evidence-based modalities/practices that can reduce inflammation and the impact on periodontal disease and oral health 
• Identify two evidence-based modalities/practices contained within in an integrative approach for dentistry and explain how this can result in improved overall health of dentists, their patients, and the entire dental team

What is holistic and integrative medicine and dentistry?   Is it about removing all the amalgam restorations and throwing away the fluoride?  Are there really herbs and natural products that can be used alongside the “real” tried and true materials?  Is there any real science behind this or is it a fad and a hoax??

This course addresses the psychosocial, physical, emotional, and spiritual factors contributing to and determining one's health and healing—or not-- and explores the rationale, principles, and practices of integrative medicine...  We will look at some evidence based complementary and alternative approaches and modalities that can be used within a conventional dental treatment plan, The mind/body connection and the personal innate healing capabilities will be discussed  and we will examine the benefits of the integrative approach  on oral and systemic disease.