posted
How many people here have recovered from Lyme after removing their root canals?
DawnE
Posts: 158 | From Great Neck, New York | Registered: Sep 2002
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Dawn, I am very sorry, but that is not a good question. Removing a root canal alone will not do the trick with Lyme. It depends on a lot of other things. Detox of metals, removal of cavitations if there are any. Many people probably have lost a root canal on purpose or because it failed, that alone will not get them well. Most people before they ended up with a root canal or more, had amalgam fillings there, probably several refills, and the mercury is still somewhere in the body, if not in the teeth any longer. So that has to come out.
The pattern for many people usually is: Amalgam fillings, repair and refill amalgam fillings; then a gold crown with possibly still amalgam underneath; then a root canal that usually precipitates cavitations. And the bridges to hold all together eventually with more stress on the neighboring teeth.
I do not think you will find anyone that got well by removing a root canal; you might have to phrase your question another way . I know and am very familiar with a patient who had been treated for everything possible for a long time. She was still in a wheelchair when Dr. K. advised her to finally give in and get rid of that root canal. She did, and literally the next day she got ouf othe wheelchair, and is now well. But I would not say that the root canal alone did it. She had done all the metal removal, but since the root canal was in a strategic place in her mouth, she was stubborn about removing it. She had done extensive parasite cleanses; got down the viral count; all the other problems with mold and fungi, corrected here electromagnetic exposure at home, -- then the root canal and did the trick.
I had 12 root canals and I had all of them removed in the very early part of my treatment. Dr. K. as much as said "if you want to live.......". I would not say that the removal of all of them got me well. It took me still about four years afterward to get all the toxin out, to treat the Lyme successfully, to get rid of all the parasites that had weakened my system; on and on. It was a slow uphill climb. It is not without good reason when I keep harping that the toxins put out by a root canal are worse than all the mercury and other metal toxicity combined. They penetrate the body. That toxin also facilitated the settling of Lyme and other microbial infections. It is a toxin that keeps many from walking; many get cancer because of the toxin. I can name you a few of my friends and some people who have posted on this board. Particularly, breast cancer. I think all of us know that by now 1 of 8 suffers with cancer. Breast cancer is particularly related to root canals. That is a horrible statistic and I did not make it up -- it is on the daily news.
I know it is very, very tough to make a decision on that subject.
Sorry, I do not mean to be hard - but I have always believed in telling it as it is. And if I don't, I have no purpose on this board. I have heard this same story in my doctor's practice now for eight years. It has not changed. It sill causes the same problems and I see the suffering people there often. Most of my friends had to go the oral surgeon routine. Some make it, some don't. Sometimes they waited too long.
From the heart.
Take care.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
Health
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6034
posted
Hello,
I had a problem with mercury and a root canal, and often wonder if it was
BECAUSE of lyme.
My parents, and my sister and several friends have mercury fillings and root canals and are very well.
My Father is 71 and he has a few root canals, several caps, several mercury fillings,
AND he had prostate cancer that he beat. He went natural and Radiation for the prostate cancer.
HERE I am, and my Father can do more then I, he is up early, lots and lots of energy, and he has MERCURY, same with my mother.
Same with sister and friend, they all have mercury and are in GREAT health.
SO, something else is going on, these people in my life are healthy as can be, my dad beat prostate cancer WITH mercury in him.
I got very ill from the removal of the mercury I was later told it was because I was hypersensitive, to it. I later read on here that someone else was like this and she/he said it was because of
LYME, and that lyme lowered immune so become allergic to trees, pollen AND! mercury.
I am not saying that you are wrong Gigi, or the Dr, just that I know personally people that have tons of mercury and are fine, they are healthy. Older people too, parenst friends, have tons of mercury, and they are golfing 7 days a week, out for dinner..
More to it then this I woudl say.
Trish
Posts: 1250 | From Canada | Registered: Aug 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
I know people like this too. Everyone has a breaking point though. Maybe these people haven't reached it yet and hopefully never will. Quite possibly, they are one or two steps away. All it could take is 1 car wreck or 1 additional parasite. You know, the straw that broke the camel's back.
Unfortunately, if that happens, it is much more involved than just taking the one straw off. You have to take a whole stack of bales off.
We all know that mercury, in and of itself, is a poison. It is not good for us.
Remember that a lot of people have the lyme bacteria and seem to be quite healthy. Emphasis on "seem".
What ultimately ends up sending people over the edge? The parasites? The lyme bacteria? The mercury? Other environmental toxins gathered over time and in our body tissues? A major stressor?
Bottom line. We didn't get sick because of just one thing. It is a cumulative effect of a lot of things. We kept adding more and more of these until our bodies said.... WHOA.
quote:Originally posted by Health: Hello,
I had a problem with mercury and a root canal, and often wonder if it was
BECAUSE of lyme.
My parents, and my sister and several friends have mercury fillings and root canals and are very well.
My Father is 71 and he has a few root canals, several caps, several mercury fillings,
AND he had prostate cancer that he beat. He went natural and Radiation for the prostate cancer.
HERE I am, and my Father can do more then I, he is up early, lots and lots of energy, and he has MERCURY, same with my mother.
Same with sister and friend, they all have mercury and are in GREAT health.
SO, something else is going on, these people in my life are healthy as can be, my dad beat prostate cancer WITH mercury in him.
I got very ill from the removal of the mercury I was later told it was because I was hypersensitive, to it. I later read on here that someone else was like this and she/he said it was because of
LYME, and that lyme lowered immune so become allergic to trees, pollen AND! mercury.
I am not saying that you are wrong Gigi, or the Dr, just that I know personally people that have tons of mercury and are fine, they are healthy. Older people too, parenst friends, have tons of mercury, and they are golfing 7 days a week, out for dinner..
Health
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6034
posted
I dont agree that everyone has a breaking point re. health.
I dont believe it because I have watched for years my parents, my friends and others, that NEVER broke, even when they were near the end, then passed away. MIND you, my parents eat very healthy, and take much supplements, go on diets to cleanse, but they do have mercury. Friends eat healthy too, exercise as well. I dont know many that eat fast food, and smoke and drink alcohol much, if I did, maybe I could then access this bunch.
Here I was cleaning my bloody liver, cleaning my bloody colon, watching what I ate so much so it was an OBESSION, going to ND's having the mercuruy removed, all that and
STILL was sick just about died.
NOW, here I am in lyme treatment,. and I wonder if ALL it is is lyme, all I need is the antibiotics long term.
I will find out.
No, I really dont belive, everyone has a breaking point, some do, possibly they are born weaker? I dont know.
the way I feel,
Trish
Posts: 1250 | From Canada | Registered: Aug 2004
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Trish, I know lots of this type of people also. But the do not have the added burden of Lyme. With some, the load becomes too big and for whatever reason the system breaks down.
What I am saying is that if we want to be able to get out of the hole, get well from Lyme, frequently and most the time other underlying matters have to be addressed. In most infected people, mercury and teeth, etc. are an underlying problem. There are a few other problems - Dr. K. separates them out as the Seven Factors:
Often when some of these are addressed, the patient can become totally well again. For some people, it takes just a couple of these, for some it takes more.
A good doctor who is experienced in treating chronically ill, will look for these and will help to patient.
Take care.
P.S. I see it like this also, when people reach their breaking point, they get ill.
As long as the body can handle the load, okay. Maybe some already live in the grey zone, where they say they are "well", but they really if they think about it, have a few things that could be better. Many do not remember what it felt like when we really were totally well. I had that for years, yet moved like at the speed of lightening. Only when the tick bit, did I totally collapse within a couple of days.
Please do not worry, you also will be fine again. Do what you have to do and hope for the best. We all dance to our own drummer. In my case, Dr. K. was my drummer and because I so desperately wanted to be alive and well again, I did what he suggested. And it worked.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
posted
Hi GiGi, You're right, I should have worded the question better. I did mean "how many got better after following the correct removal and detoxifying protocol" Do you or anyone else know of a biological dentist in NYC or nearby who could advise me? I have one root canal that was done after the dentist botched the filling and drilled into my nerve. The tooth only had a small cavity prior to that and had never been worked on. Other than that I only have one other filling in my mouth that is an amalgam but have had cosmetic work on my front teeth (porcelain laminates) Interesting that I developed allergies after getting the cosmetic work done. My Lyme is not terrible any more, mostly intermittant aches and pains and muscle twitches.
Best wishes to all, DawnE
Posts: 158 | From Great Neck, New York | Registered: Sep 2002
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Dawn, Wallace posted this site recently. http://www.iaomt.org/ Check them out.
You might want to find a dentist who can do a TOPAS test on your root canal. It's done in the dentist chair, takes minutes, and costs little. Just a piece of testing paper. Read about TOPAS here:
Take care.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
luvs2ride
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 8090
posted
GiGi,
Is there any hope the root canals I have are not toxic and causing hidden problems? I have about 12 as well and as far as I know, I am not having any problems with them.
I have two amalgam fillings. If I were to remove them only, would it then be safe to detoxify with chorella?
Is there a name for the substance that is so toxic in root canals? I could call my endodontist and ask if that is what he used.
I sure would like to avoid such a painful and expensive procedure as pulling all those teeth.
-------------------- When the Power of Love overcomes the Love of Power, there will be Peace. Posts: 3038 | From america | Registered: Oct 2005
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Luvstoride and all, according to my doctor and according to researchers that I follow:
One of those researchers recently spoke at a seminar. He has examined 100s of root canals and has not ever found one that is not toxic. He was questioned and questioned again and again.
I am not permitted to go into pages and pages of the presentation.
If you have a good doctor that knows what we are facing today in the world of toxicity, mainly dental toxins, he should be able to readily advise you.
The toxins put out by the root canals are readily testable with ART or other good forms of energy testing.
The resulting cavitations, if the damage has progressed that far, are readily seen by a good doctor who can read the pano x-ray. I know of only one such doctor.
The health of a root canal can be established by the TOPAS testing I have often mentioned on this board.
The next best to TOPAS (which has to be done right - many dentists don't do it right) is ART because it can establish also where the toxins are; which body parts they have penetrated, etc.
The toxins are known as thioethers and mercaptans and can be obtained in homeopathic form and used for testing. These toxins were not put in by your endo - they are brought about by the root canal which never can be totally sterilized. Read www.altcorp.com/affinitylaboratory/rcttreatment.htm
Take care.
P.S. I want to clarify here: I have never recommended that anyone pull all their teeth or all root canals. I want to make clear that that is what I did and that is what eventually got me well, along with all the other thousand things I did. I know people that have done that work that have all improved or gotten well. I have seen numerous cancer patients get well when finally the root canals and rest of teeth were addressed. I have never seen a cancer patient or a chronically ill patient where the teeth were not involved in some fashion.
You can take chlorella even if you still have amalgams. But it only removes Mercury from extracellular spaces. Mercury toxicity has to be addressed by other means besides Chlorella.
Take care.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
posted
Hi GiGi, I am a little confused here. If all root canals are infected and toxic, what would the point of taking the TOPAS test be? Are you saying it might not be a problem?
DawnE
Posts: 158 | From Great Neck, New York | Registered: Sep 2002
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Not all root canals fail within the same time frame - the researcher said that they usually fail. The time - as to how long they last - differs from one tooth to the other, from one person to the next. Yours might be okay at this time, maybe not. If you do the TOPAS test, which I think costs around $50. or less, you will at least know whether it is still okay. The test determines whether the tooth releases a certain protein upon agitating that would indicate that the root canal is failing or has failed. Read up on it on the website (altcorp) that I gave previously. There is a specific section about the TOPAS on that site. Any biological dentist knows about this test.
You might also read "The Root Canal Cover-Up" at the library. It is already ancient, but nothing has changed about the subject.
If you want to make the right decision, please learn about it -- that site is run by a well known professor of Kentucky University and scientists/researchers connected with it. The same people are also Registered Scientists before the US Congress - they testify on various subjects, including mercury and autism, etc.
Don't listen to me - listen to them, please.
Take care.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
Professional Organizations: American Dental Association International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation Huggins Alliance Suffolk County Dental Society Institute of Natural Dentistry"
I haven't been to him, but if I lived in NYC I would go to him, because he's in the Huggins Alliance, like my mercury-free dentist.
I am mercury toxic (as in I have abnormally low mercury lab readings because my body is retaining it), have had all of my amalgram removed, and just underwent wisdom teeth extractions a few days ago. Infection and osteomylitis had re-triggered all of my MS-like symptoms after 2 years symptom-free since amalgram removal.
Seems like my symptoms are already starting to go into remission, again!
Best of luck to you!
Lynn_B
Posts: 16 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
Did you actually have the privledge of hearing Dr. Haley speak?! He really is the most amazing scientist and deserves the Nobel Prize!
Dr. Huggins of the Huggins Alliance, and whose protocol I am on works closely with him. In fact, if I could start a new career, I would love to study under Dr. Haley at University of Kentucky.
Lynn_B
Posts: 16 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
For people who want to get a book about Biological dentistry, I've ordered a book by Hal Huggins and this book, from Amazon
Wallace
Whole Body Dentistry
by Mark A Breiner,D.D.S., F.A.G.D., F.I.A.O.M.T. introduction by Dr. Robert C. Atkins, M.D0. Paperback. 230 pages
Cost: �13.00 plus P&P (discounts for bulk purchases)
"If you wish to understand the body and healing, you must be willing to explore and learn from new ideas...On the threshold of the 21st century, the health and sciences in our society are in the midst of a powerful paradigm shift."
Excerpts from Whole Body DentistryTM
"Whatever you do, don't shrug off the concept of "whole -body dentistry" as something to make your teeth healthier. As Dr Mark Breiner will show you instantly, the art and science of whole-body dentistry is to make your entire body healthier. Robert C Atkins M.D.
An important book for everyone who is interested in participating in their own health. Bernie Siegel, M.D.
With this book you will learn to appreciate the relationship between your mouth and the rest of your body, enabling you to participate in your own treatment decisions. This book will teach you about the impact of a myriad of dental procedures and the problems that can affect your health. From silver filling, root canals, periodontal disease, TMJ, Cavitations, crowns and bridges, etc. The powerful new tools that a Whole Body Dentist can utilise to diagnose to treat these problems, tools that include Neural Therapy, homeopathy, Electro-Acupuncture (EAV), nutrition, etc, will be explored in this easy to read book, Whole-Body Dentistry, along with actual patient stories to illustrate the topics you will be learning about
For more information please contact Dr John Roberts 01706 525905 or on [email protected]Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
An interesting experience of mine that is supportive of root canal and whole body health connection:
I had a root canal on the left side of my face that started to ache. Years later xrays showed that my body was reabsorbing the roots of the tooth. I also developed a weird ache in my left hip joint. As the pain in the root canal area escalated, so did my hip pain.
I finally decided to have the root canal removed. The hip pain went away, and has never come back.
Posts: 364 | From California | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
JimBoB
Unregistered
posted
After reading all this, it makes me wonder WHY we pay doctors anything at all to do all this to us.
Wish "I" could get paid to harm people.
Heck, I know I can find people who will be happy to do it for nothing but the satisfaction of doing so.
oxygenbabe
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5831
posted
Some thoughts about root canal. First of all I Did a lot of research on them recently. Its amazing that with all the advances in medicine, frankly, that dentistry has not developed a painless laser drill, and a better root canal material. THe dentists all want something better than gutta percha. It shrinks over time and leaks. The seal is not great. But that's what we have, gutta percha and cement.
Secondly, the gutta percha is often stored in formaldehyde powder--and who's to say your dentist thoroughly cleans it off? So you may get formaldehyde exposure with the melted gutta percha.
Thirdly, something has to be put in the gutta percha to make it opaque so you can see it on xray. They put things like bismuth, or mercury in it. HEAVY METALS.
IF you want a root canal, you need the canal thoroughly cleaned--with EDTA Or laser or something. YOu need to have it done in several appts. You need to work with your dentist to find a gutta percha that doesn't have toxic metals in it.
I don't know, I don't think its safe for lymies. Tho I do agree--frankly, if you have good detoxing ability, good methylation, and no lyme, you can tolerate the bacterial infection low grade, of a root canalled tooth, and the toxic materials, if you are heaelthy.
But if you have lyme its not a good idea.
Posts: 2276 | From united states | Registered: Jun 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
Interestingly Dr Haley is a big advocate of the www.cavitat.com. I know Gigi isn't a fan of it but I hope to discuss it with a Biological dentist soon.
I have a bridge and I am prepared in case my dentist suggests it cant be replaced and I have to have a partial denture! Ouch.
www.melisa.org demonstrates how all dental metals are bad for lymies.
History and Overview Symptoms of Cavitations Location of Cavitations Current Research Systemic Problems Associated With NICO Lesions Initiating, Predisposing, and Risk Factors for NICO The Appearance of NICO Lesions Diagnosis of Cavitations Recommended Treatment of Cavitational Lesions of the Jaws What Can A Patient Do?
History and Overview Cavitations or NICO lesions are hollow places in jaw bones. These hollow areas may never cause pain or a problem. However, cavitations can produce trigeminal pain, headaches, and facial pain. Cavitations are common in all bones that have bone marrow. Many cavitations linger for years without producing facial pain.
Most people know what we mean when we say cavity, but the word cavitation is confusing. Both of these words come from the same root word meaning hole. A cavity is a hole in the tooth, whereas a cavitation is a hole in bone. Unlike most tooth cavities, bone cavitations can't be detected by simply looking at the bone, and even using x-rays, many cavitations are missed. The termed cavitation was coined in 1930 by an orthopedic researcher to describe a disease process in which a lack of blood flow into the area produced a hole in the jawbone and other bones in the body. Dr. G.V. Black, the father of modern dentistry, described this cavitation process as early as 1915 where he described a progressive disease process in the jawbone, which killed bone cells and produced a large cavitation area or areas within the jawbones. He was intrigued by the unique ability of this disease to produce extensive jawbone destruction without causing redness in the gingiva (gums), jaw swelling, or an elevation in the patient's body temperature. Essentially, this disease process, which produces osteonecrosis (dead bone) is actually a progressive impairment which produces small blockages (infarctions) of the tiny blood vessels in the jawbones, thus resulting in osteonecrosis, or areas of dead bone. These dead, cavitational areas, which produce pain, are now called NICO (Neuralgia Inducing Osteonecrosis) lesions (Figure 1). In his book on oral pathology, Dr. Black suggested surgical removal of these dead bone areas.
Figure 1: Diagram of cavitation lesions in the mandible.
Symptoms of Cavitations Cavitational lesions may produce no symptoms at all, especially if we find no redness over the area or signs of drainage. However, these lesions may also produce intense, trigeminal neuralgia-like symptoms, which cause suffering to such an extent that it's a wonder patients can stand the pain and suffering.
There are established, characteristic referred pain patterns (Figure 1), which we find very consistent in most symptomatic cavitation cases. Patients with pain usually have an underlying, constant dull aching. Along with this gnawing, deep pain, often there's a sharp, shooting pain, which, understandably, convinces doctors that the diagnosis is trigeminal neuralgia.
A very common symptom we find is a sour, persistent drainage from the cavitation directly into the mouth. This foul taste makes many patients and doctors alike consider a diagnosis of sinusitis. Unfortunately, all the sinus surgery in the world will not correct the problem if the sour fluid is draining from areas of dead bone, namely, a jawbone cavitation.
Some of the more common symptoms of cavitations are:
Deep bone pain and pressure, which may be constant but vary in intensity
A sour, bitter taste, which often causes gagging and bad breath
Sharp, shooting pain from the jaws, which eludes doctor's diagnostic attempts
Chronic maxillary sinusitis, congestion and pain
A history of large dental fillings followed by pain, root canal therapy, and ultimately, removal of the tooth
Multiple root canals
Endodontic surgery (apicoectomy)
Difficult tooth extraction, including wisdom teeth, several years earlier
Post-operative complications, especially the development of a dry socket
Failed attempts to treat trigeminal neuralgia
To confuse matters more, many patients report systemic symptoms like arm or leg pain and generalized fatigue. We've seen these systemic symptoms improve, or completely resolve, once the cavitation (or cavitations) is removed. The same has been seen in some chronic fatigue cases.
The most common scenario we see usually starts with a simple dental restoration. The family dentist replaces an old restoration (filling) and the tooth becomes sensitive, especially to cold temperatures. The doctor may replace the filling again or several more times, but the sensitivity never decreases. Then, in most cases, the tooth is treated with root canal therapy. But guess what? The pain continues. Another doctor is consulted, only to have the tooth re-treated with root canal therapy, but the pain persists . . . generally worse than in the beginning. Finally, out of sheer desperation (of both patient and doctor), the tooth is extracted, only to have the pain continue and intensify.
In this scenario, the finest dentistry was performed, but something went wrong. It wasn't neglect by the dentist but damage to the tiny vessels in the jaw around and beneath the injured tooth. Due to the constant inflammation and swelling, an infarction occurs in one or more of the tiny vessels, producing ischemia and, ultimately, bone death and cavitation formation (Figure 2).
Remember, cavitations may be completely painless. This is not unique to the jawbones. In other bones, such as the femur, often there is no pain even when the bone destruction is extreme.
Top
Location of Cavitations Table 1: Common locations of NICO lesions. Figure 2: Referred pain patterns of NICO lesions.
In the last several years, the term cavitation has been used to describe various bone lesions which appear both as empty holes in the jawbones and holes filled with dead bone and bone marrow. In Table 1, common locations of NICO lesions are listed. Note that the most common locations overall are areas of wisdom teeth (third molars). Often, these NICO lesions take years to develop, usually producing few if any symptoms . . . for a while. Then, generally for unknown reasons, pain in the jaws, face, head and neck may develop. There are characteristic referred pain patterns, which generally confuse patients and doctors alike (Figure 2).
Top
Current Research The results of recent research of Dr. Boyd Haley (former Chairman, Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky) show that ALL cavitation tissue samples he's tested contain toxins, which significantly inhibit one or more of the five basic body enzyme systems necessary in the production of energy. These toxins, which are most likely metabolic waste products of anaerobic bacteria (bacteria which don't live in oxygen), may produce significant systemic effects, as well as play an important role in localized disease processes, which negatively affect the blood supply in the jawbone. There are indications that when these toxins combine with certain chemicals or heavy metals (for example, mercury), much more potent toxins may form.
Top
Systemic Problems Associated With NICO Lesions Researchers early in the 20th century and now recently have been concerned with systemic diseases caused by a primary problem (a focus of infection). The focal theory of infection fell out of favor with medical and dental doctors after the advent of antibiotics, but may researchers today believe that in spite of antibiotics, the focal theory of infection is alive and well. Ask and veterinarian doctor, and he or she will immediately agree that the focal theory of infection is a great concern of theirs.
Many researchers today believe that NICO lesions are the focus of various infections which may spread throughout the body. In the last few years, some of the most surprising medical news has been the discovery that bacteria from the mouth appear to be very influential in causing various heart, liver and kidney problems. If you have a joint implant or mitral valve prolapse, your dentist must prescribe an antibiotic before any dental treatment. Why? Because bacteria from the mouth can spread through the blood to cause serious problems elsewhere in the body. Could the toxins from NICO lesions do the same?
Initiating, Predisposing, and Risk Factors for NICO There are many initiating, predisposing, and risk factors associated with cavitational lesions. It's likely that a combination of these factors present in a someone may influence the occurrence, type, size, progression and growth patterns of a cavitational bone lesion.
Initiating Factors: Probably the major initiating factors are dental trauma, which produce physical, bacterial, and toxic components, as described below.
Table 2: Dental traumas (initiating factors) associated with cavitational bone lesion development.
Grinding and Clenching Non-vital (dead) Teeth Chemical Toxins
Electrical Trauma from Dissimilar Metallic Restorations Improper Removal of Periodontal Ligament after Tooth Extraction? Bacterial Toxins
Heat from High Speed Drilling Infected Wisdom Teeth Other Toxins
Predisposing Factors: There are many predisposing factors and no doubt, many more will be discovered. Most of the known predisposing factors include: blood clotting disorders such as thromophilia, hypofibrinolysis, or others; age -- evidence suggests that as many as 11% of older persons may have major or complete blockage of arteries feeding the jaws or of the smaller arterioles within the jaws themselves; radiation or chemotherapy for cancer; rheumatoid arthritis; lymphoma or bone dysplasia; changes in atmospheric pressures in occupations; osteoporosis; systemic lupus erythematosis; sickle cell anemia; homcystinemia; Gaucher's disease; hyperlipidemia; hemodialysis; gout; antiphospholipid antibody syndrome; physical inactivity (bedridden); and deficiencies of thyroid or growth hormones.
Risk Factors: There are many risk factors which greatly increase the probability of the development of cavitational lesions, especially in the occlusion or blockage of tiny blood vessels within the jawbones. The most common risk factors are: heavy smoking; high and long-term cortisone usage; pregnancy; estrogen use; alcoholism; and pancreatitis. Undoubtedly, there are many other risk factors.
Wisdom Teeth Sites: Research findings indicate that 45% to 94% of all cavitational lesions are found at wisdom teeth extraction sites. These areas are anatomically predisposed to develop these bony lesions because they contain numerous tiny blood vessels which are apparently, easily damaged from trauma (oral surgery in these areas) and osteonecrosis can easily develop. Also, many local anesthetic injections are given in the wisdom tooth areas and many of the local anesthetic solutions contain vasoconstrictors (especially epinephrine) which is used to intentionally close or shut-down the blood supply to the bone, teeth and gingiva to prolong the effects of the anesthetic and reduce bleeding. The actions of closing down the blood supply to these wisdom tooth areas may be a major cause for NICO development.
Top
The Appearance of NICO Lesions Figure 3: Gross appearance of NICO lesions. Note that at least 4 lesions are visible. IAN: inferior alveolar nerve.
Cavitational lesions are difficult to discover. On most x-rays, unless the doctor is specifically trained, these bony lesions are usually missed.
Gross examination of NICO lesions are shown in Figure 2. Note the large nerve, the inferior alveolar, as it travels through and between NICO lesions.
Dental students and residents spend a lot of time learning to properly read x-rays of all types. A very useful x-ray view in dentistry is the panoramic radiograph. Unfortunately, all of us were trained to read certain irregularities as normal! We now know that these irregularities on panoramic x-rays are quite often cavitational lesions.
Figure 4: A normal panoramic x-ray? Figure 5: NICO lesions in left posterior mandible.
See the panoramic x-ray above (Figure 4)? Most dentists, oral surgeons, radiologists, and other doctors would read this x-ray as normal. Now, look again at the same x-ray, but with lines drawn to the NICO lesions (Figure 5). This 44 year old lady had left lower jaw pain for a couple of years, after the last two molars were treated with large fillings, then root canals, and then removed. She also had a slow drainage into her mouth which produced a sore throat. Unfortunately, this lady saw at least 8 doctors (a dentist, 2 oral surgeons, a periodontist, an endondontist, 2 ENT physicians, and a family physician) and all could find nothing and even suggested she consult a psychologist!
Here's another interesting case. This is a 47 year-old business woman who has had extensive and good dental treatment. Her wisdom teeth were taken out when she was 14 years old and the surgery was difficult. When she was first married at age 18, she took birth control pills for only a few weeks because she developed phlebitis in the deep veins of her legs. When she was 45 or 46, she began experiencing deep aching pain in her lower right jaw. There was no swelling, but she complained of a terrible, sour taste.
Look at Figure 6. This is her panoramic x-ray. From the looks of this x-ray, there appears to be nothing wrong, yet she had continual deep aching pain in the right lower jaw, a sour taste and no teeth which seemed painful or sensitive.
Figure 6: An apparently normal panoramic x-ray.
Figure 7 is a copy of this lady's Cavitat or ultrasonic scan of her lower right jaw. Tooth #28 was removed years earlier for othodontic reasons.
Figure 7: Ultrasound (Cavitat) scan of lower right jaw.
Note the red, yellow and brown colors in the areas of teeth numbers 29 through 32. These colors indicate areas in the bone of reduced blood flow or dryness, or in other words, a cavitation or cavitations. When this lady's lower jaw was numbed with a local anesthetic, all her pain subsided, but her sour taste persisted. This, along with her symptoms and Cavitat scan, indicated that she had a cavitation in the areas of teeth numbers 29 through 32. Figure 8 is a picture during surgery of this area. Note the large, void area in the jaw bone. This cavitation area was present within the bone and not created by Dr. Shankland. The two last molars were removed, but the cavitation is lateral to the teeth. Her surgery was difficult and she had minor nerve damage for a few weeks. But today, more than four years after the surgery, she's pain-free and no longer has a sour taste in her mouth.
Figure 8: Cavitation in lower right jaw at surgery.
Figure 9 is another case in which a lady in her early 40s, who was plagued with constant deep aching pain in the jaw. She'd seen several types of doctors, none of whom felt she had a physical problem. Yet, with a simple incision, without removing any bone, this cavitation was discovered. This patient required a second surgery to finally eliminate the cavitation and stop her pain.
Figure 9: Cavitation in lower right jaw.
Not to belabor the point, look at Figure 10, which shows yet another case. Is there any doubt that there's a hole in this lady's upper jaw? At this point, only the gum tissue was lifted up; no bone was removed. This lady had constant upper jaw pain, pressure and a sour taste in her mouth. She was diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia and scheduled for brain surgery. This bone lesion went clear through her jaw into her palate and up into the floor of her nose.
Figure 10: Cavitation in upper jaw of 58 year-old woman.
In one last case, this lady had undiagnosed right facial pain for years. She complained of a sour taste at times and when the sour taste wasn't present, she'd have intense pressure in her right jaw. Figure 11 shows her ultrasound or Cavitat scan. Note the red area in the area of #31 and as it extends into the area of #30. Again, this shows an area of ischemia, or reduced blood flow, which is actually a jaw bone cavitation.
Figure 11: Cavitat scan of lower right jaw.
Figure 12 shows a panoramic x-ray of this same patient. If you look closely at the x-ray, it will look normal and you'll not be able to see any abnormality. Yet, look at Figure 13, a picture taken after an incision was made and nothing else done at the surgical site. Look at the large cavitation at a former extraction site.
Figure 12: Panoramic x-ray of the same patient shown in Figure 11.
Figure 13: A cavitation visible after an incision and the gingival tissue is retracted. This is a former extraction site.
Figure 14: The same cavitation with the bony roof removed.
Now, look at Figure 14, a picture of the same patient with the roof of the cavitation removed for access to surgically repair the area. Isn't that amazing? Several fine doctors couldn't diagnose this lady's problem and most thought she was crazy! Fortunately, she's doing fine with no further pain, sour taste and pressure and no nerve damage after the surgery.
Diagnosis of Cavitations The diagnosis of cavitation lesions is complicated by the fact that x-ray examination of the jawbones often appears normal . . . to the untrained eye. Considerable diagnostic experience is required to detect disorders that mimic cavitations, including variations of normal anatomy.
Why is this so? Osteonecrosis is a disease of the marrow spaces of bone and 40% to 50% of such bone must be destroyed before changes can be seen on x-rays. So, if your dentist or oral surgeon takes an x-ray and pronounces the film normal in spite of your symptoms, don't necessarily believe it. X-rays may be interpreted as normal unless (1) there's a significant amount of bony destruction or (2) the doctor is experienced in reading x-rays specifically for cavitations.
Although MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is the imaging technique of choice for long bones, flat bones of the face are not imaged well with regular MRI scans. CT scans are also ineffective in locating most cavitations in the jawbones.
However, we've discovered that using the technique of MRI STIR imaging (Figure 15) is very effective and accurate in locating areas of bone marrow edema (swelling) and ischemia (areas of reduced oxygen). Both of these conditions can and do lead to the formation of cavitations.
Figure 15: MRI STIR image. The cavitation is the larger white area on the right side of the picture.
Bone scans using a radioactive isotope are somewhat helpful in locating cavitations but very difficult to interpret. Also, radiologists, not expecting these lesions in jawbones, often note the lesions in their radiology reports but interpret the results as normal.
Figure 16: Bone scan using tech 99 radioisotope. The cavitation is the darker area in the lower right front.
The best, most effective method to locate cavitations is the Cavitat bone scanning device (Figure 17). This computer-based sonar imaging system was designed to aid the medical community with a detailed profile of the interior of bones. The Cavitat computer generates digitized two and three dimensional images of the interior of the jawbones from sound waves passed through the bones.
Figure 17: Cavitat scan.
Because liquid is a near perfect conductor of sound waves, when these waves enter into voids or porosities in bone (areas that have compromised bone flow; i.e., cavitations), the sound waves slow down considerably, which produces images of the interior of the bony area being scanned. We've found the Cavitat results to be very accurate, especially when compared with patients' panoramic x-rays. Our diagnostic results have improved dramatically. Most importantly, our surgical successes have soared since we began using this revolutionary device.
Therefore, since both MRI STIR imaging and ultrasound imaging (Cavitat) are so effective and accurate (Figure 18), since November of 2003 we're been using both imaging techniques with most patients. Using both of these diagnostic tests have helped improve our diagnostic abilities and better yet, have improved our overall success rate in treating cavitations of the jaws.
Figure 18: MRI STIR image and Cavitat scan of the same area, both demonstrating a cavitation in the same area.
For patients experiencing pain, diagnosis is further improved through anesthetic confirmation or anesthetic blocking. By giving a local anesthetic injection (similar to having your dentist numb the jaw before he or she performs a dental procedure), pain in the jaws can be selectively turned-off, meaning the sense or feeling of pain can be chemically and temporarily eliminated. If the pain goes away after the injection, then we can be reasonably certain that there's a problem in the anesthetized area, generating pain.
Recommended Treatment of Cavitational Lesions of the Jaws The only treatment available at this time to remove cavitational lesions is surgical removal. Some have attempted to inject homeopathic remedies or ozone into these areas of dead bone, but unfortunately, there's no blood circulation within cavitational lesions, so any medications, drugs, or remedies can't get into and permeate these lesions, let alone allow toxins and metabolic products to be removed. Homeopathic remedies certainly have their place in NICO treatment, especially in healing after surgical removal of the lesions themselves.
The surgery basically consists of making an incision, exposing the bony defects, and scraping them clean (termed debridement) to remove all unhealthy bone and other pathological problems like abscesses and cysts. It's not sufficient to simply punch a hole in the bone and rinse the area out, like some doctors recommend. In fact, treating these expanding bony lesions in such a conservative fashion often makes the lesion and subsequent pain much worse.
After removing the dead bone and other pathological products, the goal in healing is bone regeneration. But first, if possible, we remove all predisposing and risk factors.
Top
What Can A Patient Do?
If you think you might have a NICO lesion, what can you do? First, find a doctor who understands this disease process; one who is trained in effectively diagnosing and treating these bony problems. Unfortunately, there are precious few such doctors in the world and very few in North America at this time.
If you're experiencing pain, don't allow anyone to operate without first proving where your pain originates. This is done most effectively by closely evaluating x-rays and using diagnostic anesthetic injections to actually turn-off the suspected NICO areas to see if the pain is turned-off. There are characteristic referred pain patterns of NICO lesions and there are also characteristic responses to local anesthetic testing. Find a doctor who knows about these characteristic patterns and realize that most doctors who treat orofacial and TMJ pain know nothing about NICO lesions.
Be certain that the doctor obtains Cavitat scans, MRI STIR imaging, or both in the process of diagnosing your problem. Both of these imaging tests give us a view of the size and extent of cavitations and can also indicate if surgery is truly needed or not.
Keep watching this site as we have many new and exciting things soon to come out about NICO lesions. For more information about NICO lesions and other orofacial pain problems which are often misdiagnosed, see Dr. Shankland's latest book, Face The Pain.
Dr. Shankland consults and treats NICO, orofacial, and TMJ patients. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Shankland's office (614-794-0033) and ask for the NICO Information Packet to be sent to you free of charge. You can also consult with Dr. Shankland. If you'd like to know more about Dr. Shankland, click on Biography.
Very good, thorough info you that you posted! It had taken me months to gather most of the same, a couple of years back, when I planned amalgram replacement.
I used to live near Dr. Shankland's office, and had I known I would have to have wisdom teeth extractions, I would have had him do it.
But, I live several states away, now, and fortunately there is a Huggins Alliance doc, here, who did them. He's a great surgeon, but I still had to remind him a few times to follow protocol exactly.
Just returned from his office, a little while ago. He removed the sutures and gave me O-zone therapy. Said my extraction sites are healing very well, but it will be an ongoing process of monitoring them to make sure no cavitations ever develop.
Again, very good info that you posted and I hope it reaches the many, many people who need it.
Lynn_B
Posts: 16 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
I don't want to get into this any more because I think it's all been said over and over and over. Just do some searching on this board. I started to talk about root canals in the year 2000.
I just want to add here: I have the whole text of a several hour long speech at Dr. K's seminar "the latest findings and research in the field of chemical and heavy metal detoxification". Speech was by Bob Jones, associated with Prof. Boyd Haley, www.altcorp.com/affinitylaboratory/rcttreatment.htm Bob Jones invented the CAVITAT.
With all the scientific medical and biochemical detail covering research from all over the world, he finished by saying while showing a cavitation (=holes in the jawbone):
"Now this happens to be cavitations, the bone toxins, but if you have root canals, you will have cavitations because they cause them."
And I will add to this --- that's where the Lyme and associated bacteria hang out and replicate.
We really don't have much of a choice. I didn't.
Take care.
To Oxygenbabe: Gutta Percha has long been replaced (by some dentists) with BioCalix out of France - it doesn't work either. A tooth cannot be sterilized and the bugs will survive and take over. They are more powerful than we are - certainly a lot smarter than many dentists and scientists. The material to sterilize and fill a root canal has not been found. Jones described in minute detail how they tried to sterilize it. Look it up on the link above, altcorp.
After you have had your root canal a while, have your dentist do the TOPAS test on it, and keep doing it. Be sure the tooth gets agitated shortly before the test. The bugs come up when agitated, or hard biting, and will then show in the protein test. You will know how good or how bad it is.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
oxygenbabe
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5831
posted
Hi Gigi, I know, biocalex doesn't work. The holistic dentists jumped on that bandwagon and have since abandoned it.
Dentists are in it for the $, they ain't saints. An occasional doctor can be a saint, however. So dentists, don't tell me they go into dentistry because they really care about people's health. NOT. You don't have to be that smart to get through dental school and then you can make a lot of $. And guess where the $ is. Veneers, root canals, crowns, bridges, etc. Oh let's not forget implants--and bone grafts to hold the implants! NOt in simple prevention and composite fillings. Do you know I was getting my teeth cleaned every 4 months...after some dental problems 7 years ago, and getting my bitewings, and nobody bothered to actually use the "pick" tool on my teeth to test for decay. So the decay went unnoticed until it was time for...da da da! Onlay, crown, root canal! One of the three, all between $800-2000. Well the dentist who fixed my latest problem (fractured socket from inept extraction), actually did that for me a few weeks ago and found decay in several teeth. He's catching it early. He's one rare, good one.
Lyme does cause teeth problems, as all over the body, wherever there are nerves, but a lot of our dental problems are because, imo, if the dentists let the problems go they make 4 times as much $ for the same amount of time spent with you in the chair.
Posts: 2276 | From united states | Registered: Jun 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
Reluctantly I have decided to have a Cavitat scan done, its upwards of $250 unfortunately, scheduled for late March.
Anyone read "unintended consequences" by Hal Huggins? Good chapter on cavitations.
Sunny thoughts, Wallace HOLISTIC vs. CONVENTIONAL DENTISTRY
Suzin Stockton What is the difference between a holistic or biological dentist and a conventional or traditional one? - None in terms of basic training. Both have fulfilled comparable educational and licensing requirements. Both have demonstrated an understanding of dentistry as it has been traditionally taught and practiced, and a skill level sufficient to earn the title of DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Dental Medical Doctor).
Most holistic dentists began their careers practicing in the traditional manner, but later started to incorporate holistic procedures as their awareness grew regarding the nature, effectiveness and safety of such procedures. This awareness could have been facilitated by many events - maybe a seminar on holistic dentistry or first-hand experience of the toxic effects of mercury and other commonly used dental materials.
The holistic dentist has dared to step outside the traditional dental paradigm and look at the whole-body effect of routine dental procedures. S/he is far more than a ``tooth mechanic.'' S/he is a doctor in the truest sense, one who is guided by the cardinal rule of the Hippocratic oath, ``First, do no harm.''
The chart below is a modified version of one that appears in the Dental Amalgam Mercury Syndrome (DAMS) information packet. It gives a succinct 11-point comparison between the holistic and the traditional dentist.
CONVENTIONAL (ADA) DENTAL PRACTICES HOLISTIC OR BIOLOGICAL DENTAL PRACTICES Uses ``silver'' amalgams, which are half mercury. Denies the health risks of using such fillings. ADA claim: Replacement of amalgams is ``unethical.'' Never uses amalgam fillings; will replace amalgams for health reasons (using precautions) if the patient wants it done. Is aware of the adverse health impact of amalgams and seeks to understand the health impact of all dental work on the body and the brain. Nickel (a component of stainless steel is routinely used in dentures and braces. Gold fillings and crowns may be placed into the mouth along with amalgams, creating a ``battery effect'' from the currents generated by dissimilar metals. All materials are laced without regard to toxicity, allergy or biocompatibility. Nickel is avoided in crowns and other dental applications because it is a neurotoxin (poison to the nervous system) and carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). Gold alloys are either not used at all or only after compatibility testing, as gold is a conducting metal and always contains other metals, some toxic. Gold is never used when amalgams are in present in the mouth. May not know how to properly place composite (tooth-colored) filling material, increasing the failure rate. Relies on ceramics for inlays, onlays and crowns and uses carefully selected composites for direct fillings. Is likely unfamiliar with biocompatibility testing. Therefore may deny that biocompatibility of materials used is important to health. Uses biocompatibility testing routinely to determine what filling, crown or bridge materials are most compatible with patient's unique body chemistry (and thus will be least likely to trigger an immune response). Typically does not use precautions (or adequate precautions) when replacing old amalgam fillings. Takes elaborate precautions when drilling out old amalgam fillings. Usually does not fully realize the health risks associated with standard dental materials and procedures. May scoff at health concerns when raised.; has dangerous levels of mercury vapor in the dental clinic. The dentist, hygienist and assistant may all have high mercury levels in their bodies, adversely affecting their health. Collaborates with naturopathic physicians or holistic medical doctors to help evaluate the health status of the patient and to plot a strategy for safe dental work and for detoxification. Encourages baseline testing and evaluation for heavy metal toxicity; recognizes possible need for medical preparation before amalgams are replaced. Does root canal treatments, typically using gutta percha as a filling material for root canals; denies any health hazards associated with root canal treatment. Many avoid the risks of root canal fillings by extracting the dead tooth and putting in a bridge or partial denture. Some use alternative filling materials in the root canal. When extracting a tooth, will most likely not scrape off a portion of the bony socket to assure total removal of the periodontal ligament, which connects tooth to bone. After tooth extraction, takes care to thoroughly remove the periodontal ligament by scraping the bony socket down to healthy bone to prevent jawbone infection and promote healing. Is not familiar with jawbone ``cavitations,'' or downplays their prevalence and is therefore not apt to suspect them or recognize them, even when indicators and risk factors are present. Recognizes that jawbone cavitations frequently occur where teeth have been extracted, where there have been root canal treated teeth and where other risk factors are present. Either scans for cavitations him/herself or refers to others equipped to do so and to perform surgery or other appropriate treatment. Recognizes periodontal disease as a threat to teeth and to general health. Likely to use surgery or ``root planing'' as a primary treatment. Recognizes periodontal disease as a threat to teeth and to general health. Typically uses herbal and other rinses to treat the infection, but avoids antibiotic use, surgery and root planning. Does not want to use surgery to remove potentially healthy gum tissue. Advocates the use of fluoridated toothpastes, gels, mouthwashes and fluoridated water. The American Dental Association receives millions in revenue for placing its ``Seal of Acceptance'' on fluoridated products. Avoids use of fluoridated dental products, as fluoride is toxic and accumulates in the body. Recognizes dental fluorosis (discoloration of children's teeth) as a sign of systemic fluoride poisoning. Opposes water fluoridation due to documented health hazards.
It should be noted that not all holistic dentists practice in the same manner - or even see eye to eye on all dental issues for that matter. Some dentists may only be ``holistic'' in the sense that they practice mercury-free dentistry. They may be unaware of the other issues reflected by point 2 through 11, or choose not to take a stand on these issues for a variety of reasons. Perhaps their knowledge of them is as yet insufficient, or perhaps they are fearful that taking a proactive stand on a controversial issue such as fluoridation might jeopardize their good standing with dental boards and associations that stand philosophically on the other side of the issue.
We are experiencing a paradigm shift in dentistry today. Biological dentistry as it's practiced today may well evolve into the standard of care of the future, as resistance to innovation yields to acceptance.
$250 for Cavitat reading is actually pretty good. My last one cost $650. But that you have to wait until late March sure isn't great.
"Unintended Conseqeunces" is not a title of any Huggins publication that I am familiar with. Is it recent? His writings about cavitatios are in many of his publications.
I like the chapter, "Signifcance and Surgical Removal of Cavitations, in his book,'Solving the MS Mystery.' It describes the procedure and features pictures of X-rays of cavitations done with contrast medium. It also tells his story of his first experience of being shown a cavitation by an Australian doctor in 1986. From there, he had to train himself to try to start spotting them for himself.
Anyway, best of luck to you. I hope your cavitat does not reveal any cavitations or severe osteomyelitis. Mine is not severe, but must now be prevented from becoming severe.
Lynn_B
Posts: 16 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
I meant "uninformed consent". Togeather with wholebody dentistry(www.wholebodynews.com for newsletter and website) it answers most of my questions.
My dentist uses iv vitamin C, along with other biological dentists, I'll probably get Thomas levy's book on vitamin C.
Nice to know someone else has gone cavitat scanning. Did you feel it was money well spent?
Sunny thoughts, Wallace Letter to the Editor of Townsend Letter for Doctors and Their Patients
Cavitations are Ignored by Dentists and Insurance Companies
Published in August/September issue
I have several comments re: the many dental articles that appeared in the June edition of your magazine. First, I would take issue with Drs. Barker and Meletis' claim that ``...if we cared as well for the rest of our bodies as we do our teeth, the health of humanity would be greatly improved.'' The good doctors appear to equate ``caring for our teeth'' with having bi-annual dental check-ups and recommended follow-up treatment. However, consider that these check-ups routinely expose patients to damaging ionizing radiation (Do a Google search on the work of Dr. John Gofman re: the relationship between conventional medical x-rays and cancer and heart disease). And, consider also that positive findings on x-ray and/or oral exam inevitably lead to treatment using invasive procedures that traumatize the teeth and jawbone, resulting ultimately in development of systemic disease. With regard to these considerations, one has to question the wisdom of calling the traditional 6-month dental check-up a ``preventive'' measure.
My special area of interest in dentistry is the jawbone condition that has become popularly known as ``cavitations'' (osteonecrosis and/or chronic osteomyelitis), a condition characterized by bone loss, poor blood supply and sometimes, chronic infection. This little-known but extremely prevalent, invisible and often silent condition results from trauma of any sort to the jawbone. For most of us, the bulk of that trauma comes from standard dental care, starting with the simple filling of a cavity in a tooth. Regardless of whether the filling material is toxic or ``biocompatible,'' the use of a high-speed drill to remove the decayed portion of the tooth will lead to its ultimate demise from pulp damage, according to German dentist, Ralf T�rk. In a lecture given in May of 1987 to the American Association of Biological Dentistry, Dr. T�rk referred to the high-speed drill used routinely in dentistry as a ``time bomb whose devastating effects have been completely underestimated by most of our colleagues.'' He maintains that use of such a drill results in the formation of cracks deep in the enamel of the tooth, cracks that allow bacteria and their toxins, as well as macromolecules, to penetrate the dentin. Dr. T�rk described studies by a Swiss colleague, which demonstrated that ``after 5 to 20 seconds of milling or grinding with turbines, an increase in pulp temperature ... caused irreversible damage in 60% of the pulps examined.'' In addition to such thermally-induced damage, T�rk adds damage from negative pressure. He builds a convincing case against the use of high-speed drills, a case that has largely fallen on deaf ears in dental circles.
Often the small filling becomes larger and larger over time as decay spreads. When finally too much of the tooth structure has been destroyed to allow it to survive intact, a crown or cap is generally placed, following the whittling down of the tooth to a mere nub. Prepping teeth for crowns and bridges means more trauma to the tooth (and hence to the jawbone) from high-speed drilling. Once the crown or bridge is placed, all is well (or so it seems) until and unless the patient complains of pain. Sometimes x-rays will show an abscess; other times they will show nothing, but if pain persists, root canal treatment is generally recommended.
Once again, regardless of the toxicity or biocompatibility of the material used to fill root canals, the procedure itself is inherently damaging to the entire body, as the late Weston Price, DDS, so elegantly demonstrated decades ago with his classic animal experiments. (When he implanted root canal-filled teeth extracted from sick individuals under the skin of healthy rabbits, those rabbits developed the same diseases as their tooth donors, and ultimately died from them.) The ``safe'' root canal is an oxymoron. There is no safe way to keep a dead organ in the body, no way to sterilize the miles and miles of dentin tubules in the root canal and keep them sterile.
When root canals fail (as is so often the case), the next dental intervention is tooth extraction. This creates more trauma to the jawbone, trauma that is sure to result in formation of a cavitation (if one has not already developed) if any portion of the periodontal ligament (which holds tooth to bone) remains in the socket. You can bet this will happen if the surgical site isn't properly cleaned out with the dental burr to assure total detachment of the ligament. Any portion of it that is left behind will form a barrier to blood flow and to new bone growth as I've discussed in my book Beyond Amalgam. The bone cavity (cavitation) that forms (or enlarges) as a result of an improperly done extraction will serve as an incubating chamber for microbes, whose toxins will ultimately gain systemic access, causing all manner of illness.
Once a tooth is extracted, more dental intervention is needed to ``fill the hole.'' The worst possible choice is an implant, which poses big-time trauma to the jawbone. Opting for a bridge will damage the tooth structure of two perfectly good adjacent teeth and can potentially set the whole process of bone deterioration into motion once again. It is my belief that the safest option in the face of multiple tooth loss is a removable appliance made of biocompatible dental materials.
All along the way - from first dental filling to crown and bridge to root canal filling to extraction to implant - our jawbones are being traumatized physically from high-speed drilling. Add to this the trauma of ischemia-inducing x-rays, plus toxins (and sometimes vasoconstriction) from dental anesthetics (Google Dr. Alfred Nickel, DDS, to read about the neurotoxic and carcinogenic effects of aniline-based anesthetics), and the plot thickens. Factor in the disruption of energy flow in acupuncture meridians running through traumatized tooth sites, the toxic effect of fluoride and heavy metals, in addition to other harmful dental materials used routinely in dentistry - AND the systemic access ultimately gained by these toxins - and we can clearly see why well-informed professionals are beginning to believe that death begins in the mouth, rather than at the other end of the GI tract as has long been taught in holistic circles.
I was dismayed to see not one mention of the word ``cavitation'' in your recent dental issue. No conscientious practitioner can afford to ignore this condition! Its importance is right up there with mercury and root canals (neither discussed to any significant degree in your dental issue): Cavitations cause every bit as much suffering and systemic disease, although the patient and his dentist may be totally unaware of it. The June issue of your magazine is replete with discussions of natural medicines to be used in support of oral health, but such discussion is irrelevant in the face of cavitations, an ischemic condition that prevents effective delivery of any type of medicine to affected area(s) of the mouth.
Those few dentists who are aware of cavitations - and the fewer still who are treating them - too often avoid mention of the ``C'' word, for fear of repercussions from dental boards. The only reference to cavitations I found in your June dental issue was an indirect one by Dr. Andrea Brockman. She is ``right on'' with her comment about the jawbone: ``...What other bone can have osteomyelitis [cavitations] and deteriorating joints and not be covered by dental or medical insurance?'' Excellent point!
Insurance companies today are following the lead of Aetna and denying claims for diagnosis of cavitations by FDA-approved bone sonography (the Cavitat) and surgical treatment of the condition based upon QuackWatch pronouncements of illegitimacy. Bob Jones, developer of the Cavitat, has responded by filing a federal RICO (racketeering) suit against Aetna and Quackbusters. This could be a pivotal case for patients and practitioners alike. Follow the progress on Tim Bolen's site, http://www.quackpotwatch.org, and read more about cavitations on mine: www.healthcarealternatives.net.
Suzin Stockton, MA
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
Lynn what kind of oral work is you dentist planning to do?
Reading both books just backs up Gigi when she says that to remove mercury and other toxins, it requires a Biological dentist who can make sure all the dental work is completely done- cavitations etc etc so your body is ready to release the toxins.
posted
Enquiring about cavitations? Prepare yourself for dentures! Oh well! They were rotten anyway!
wallace Preparing for Tooth Loss from Cavitation Surgery � 2004 Suzin Stockton Since publishing Beyond Amalgam in 1998, I've received a steady stream of inquiries from readers, most of whom are dental patients trying to make decision about treatment of suspected jawbone cavitations. In those early years, I had more questions than answers myself despite being the person who ``wrote the book about cavitations.''
A turning point in my understanding of jawbone necrosis (dead bone), both personally and professionally (as a writer/teacher in the holistic health field), came last year (2001) when I spent the better part of the year working for CAVITAT Medical Technologies in Colorado. Here I got to see the Generation 4 CAVITAT in action on numerous occasions and was able to come to an understanding of how this new technology works. I also had the opportunity to listen to and speak with some of the great pioneers in the cavitation arena. I got to watch as dentists across the country were introduced to bone sonography, a technology that is very different than the x-rays they're accustomed to routinely using. While most caught on readily to the technique of scanning the jaw and understood how to interpret the scans, all were faced with the dilemma of coming to terms with what they saw in them -- invariably a good deal more necrosis than they suspected. While the dominant response could probably be termed `cautious acceptance' of the technology, there were a minority who went into denial, refusing to believe what they saw. On the other side of the spectrum was another minority - those who dared to believe what they were looking at and act upon it. These were people like Wes Shankland, Columbus OH dentist who did surgery on my maxilla (upper jaw) in March of 2001 and surgery on my mandible (lower jaw) 4 months later. What I experienced in his office during my first appointment that March would make an indelible impression on both of us and lay the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the disease process with which we'd so long dealt - he as a dentist, and I as a patient. It would also mark my initiation into the world of dentures.
When I first saw Dr. Shankland, I knew (from recent panorex evaluation by another dentist) I had a root tip from an old wisdom tooth extraction at site #1 that had migrated into my sinus cavity. I also knew I would need to lose the adjacent tooth and probably a few others due to spreading necrosis, based upon our previous discussion of my panorex. However, neither Dr. Shankland nor I were prepared for what we saw on the CAVITAT scan of my maxilla - every tooth site on the left side of the upper jaw was showing an abundance of red (necrosis) on the CAVITAT scan, as were most on the right side. Since Dr. Shankland had just purchased his CAVITAT, and I was the first patient with whom he used it, he was shocked to find necrosis that was much more widespread than he'd determined based on panorex analysis. To his credit, he dared to act upon what he saw. Over the next two days, he removed 13 of my maxillary teeth, along with the root tip from site #1. Any doubt that he may have had initially about the accuracy of the CAVITAT scan was dispelled soon after he cut into the jawbone. Biopsy reports and analysis of the pulp chambers of the extracted teeth also later confirmed the accuracy of the scans and the necessity for removal of the teeth. The bone healing from that surgery was rapid and complete. Four months later, the scan of my maxilla was showing green (healthy bone) at all sites. This taught me that a thorough removal of necrosis (sometimes necessitating extraction of seemingly `good' teeth) is the key to successful surgery and good bone healing. It gave Dr. Shankland the confidence to repeatedly act upon what he saw in CAVITAT scans. Now, over a year later, he says he'll never again practice without a CAVITAT, and credits bone sonography with greatly improving his surgical outcomes.
Before flying from Denver to Columbus in March of 2001, I had the foresight to consult with a local dentist and have an impression made of both upper and lower jaws since I knew I'd be losing some teeth but wasn't sure exactly which ones or how many. After the surgery, Dr. Shankland phoned the Colorado dentist to tell him which teeth had been extracted so that the work on my denture could be initiated immediately. I knew since I'd only be in Columbus for three days, there was no way Dr. Shankland could do anything about fitting me with a dental appliance. Since that time, I've spoken to numerous patients who are flying out of town or out of state for surgery and have fielded their questions regarding what to do about filling the space left when teeth are removed.
The patient who travels to consult a dentist about possible cavitations should be prepared to lose teeth. The possibility, of course, exists that extractions will not be necessary; however, if the patient has a history of root canals, large restorations, chronically sensitive teeth, implants, periodontal disease and/or surgery or other jaw trauma, it is likely that necrosis can be found under treated and adjacent teeth -- and possibly elsewhere. A point that I want to make very strongly is that we need to be prepared for extractions in the event that they are found to be necessary. If it is just one or two posterior (back) teeth that are lost, there will be no hurry to have a partial denture made, and the patient can wait several months to have impressions made of the jaw so that an appliance can be fabricated. I should say here that I believe a partial denture to be the safest choice where restorations are concerned. Crowns, bridges, implants -- these all subject the jaw to further trauma which can give rise to development of cavitations or spreading of existing ones. A partial denture, on the other hand, provided that it is made of biocompatible material, does not cause any trauma to the jaw. Such a prosthesis, since it is removable and generally taken out at night, has limited extremely limited potential to cause harm.
If more than a few teeth need to be extracted, or if critical anterior (front) teeth are removed, it is advisable to have an appliance made as soon as possible after surgery. (It can even be made beforehand, if it is known which teeth are to be removed.) I found that placing a denture (with a soft lining) in my maxilla early on served as a sort of bandage for the fresh wound. As the jaw heals and the gums shrink, the soft lining of the appliance is replaced to accommodate the shift until maximal healing has occurred, at which time a `hard' reline can be done.
It is important for the cavitation patient to select his partial/denture material beforehand. This selection should be based upon biocompatibility testing. Serum antibody (blood) tests are available which will rule out incompatible materials. Those materials testing as compatible should be further screened through bioenergetic testing or applied kinesiology (muscle testing) to assure compatibility. See my separate article on Serum antibody testing for more information on this subject.
There are two further considerations with regard to complete and partial dentures - these have to do with aesthetics and fit. I had worn a bottom partial for several years before being fitted for an upper denture and found it quite difficult to get a good fit. Apparently some people (those with wide dental arches) are easier to fit than others (with narrow arches). I have also found that the prosthetics skills of some dentists leave something to be desired. Again and again I would experience the same scenario: A partial denture would be fabricated by an out of town lab. It would be too tight, so the dentist would adjust it. It would then be too loose and have to be sent back to the lab to be relined. Each time I'd lose a tooth, the attempt to add a tooth to the existing denture failed, necessitating an entirely new plate.
I have largely solved the problems of aesthetics and fit by finding a prosthodontist who is willing to work with biocompatible materials. Prosthodontists are dentists who specialize in making partial (where some, but not all, teeth are missing), and complete dentures (for a totally edentulous arch) and other dental appliances, both fixed and removable. They can be expected to have a higher skill level in this regard than the average dentist. However, it is rare to find a prosthodontist with both an understanding of the concept of biocompatibility and experience with fabrication of biocompatible non-metallic materials. Finding such a dentist can be difficult and may require that the patient once again travel for the best results - OR educate a local prosthodontist about biocompatible materials.
Aesthetics is a subject that took on importance for me when I got my first complete denture, the denture I now refer to as my ``horse teeth.'' Here a picture is worth a thousand words. Note the difference in my appearance with this denture (far left) and a new smaller, more contoured one. The first denture showed way too much pink when I smiled, with the teeth set down too low. It also took up a lot of space in my mouth so that I found it difficult to talk and eat.
My experience with cavitations and tooth loss has taught me that we need a revolution in dentistry to undo the iatrogenic (physician-induced or dentist-induced) harm that has been done. The new `army' in that revolution will be the front line guys, the cavitation surgeons, flanked by dentists with a general practice and other practitioners who screen for cavitations, and holistic prosthodontists who can skillfully fabricate functional, aesthetic partials and dentures using biocompatible materials. I envision a day when every cavitation surgeon shares office space with a prosthodontist who has his own lab on the premises so that safe, good-fitting, attractive dental appliances can be fabricated without delay for the cavitation patient.
Home
[email protected] POWER OF ONE PUBLISHING, c/o Renew Life, 2076 Sunnydale Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33765, USA 727-539-1700
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
Ohhhh...,"Uninformed Consent." But I like your title, "Unintended Consequences," too, and think it would work for such publications :-)
And dentures,Wallace? Having a cavitat might readily confirm what you already suspect.
As far as my dental work?
I had the mercury replaced 2 years ago and became symptom-free two years ago, until 6 weeks ago.
Here's my story:
My dentist just extracted two of my wisdom teeth, a week ago, using the Huggins protocol--being a Huggins Alliance doc that he is. One was very infected, and painful, which I am sure was what triggered my latest MS relapse. When he had cleaned it out and put a temporary cap prior to extraction, six weeks ago, I lost eyesight in the eye above it and was diagnosed with optic neuritis, trigeminal neuralgyia, Bell's palsy, and lots more white matter lesions showed up on an MRI. He had just set loose many anaerobes just doing this procedure. But it had to be done.
The cavitat revealed lots of fuzzy red readings in the wisdom tooth below the obviously infected one, too--and in adjoining teeth. So, it was extracted, too. This second one was not painful, nor did it have any outside decay, but the fuzzy red reading was diagnosed as lots of bad anaerobic activity going on, inside. And causing osteomyelitis of my jaw that I didn't even know that I had. Without the cavitat readings, this might not have been known. GiGi is right that it would be ideal if all dentists could just identify this on the x-rays. But since most can't, I'm glad I got it done to be on the safe side. And it certainly was, in my case.
Having the extractions done, and done right, has already alleviated some of the symptoms. The Bell's palsy like symptoms are much, much better. My mouth and eye droops much less, and I have regained the sight in that eye. And, no more pain at all. The worst symptoms that I still have is loss of balance (can't walk without holding onto something) and severe tinnitus ( both, probably due to Cranial Nerve VIII lesions). But I'm on my way to complete healing now that the source of my dental anaerobic infection is being eradicated and continuosly monitored. Now, I have to heal completely with proper nutrition and not trying to detox (but not too quickly).
Am hoping that with some time I'll reach the point of healing that GiGi has! Like her, I am convinced that all my health problems were, and are, all triggered by toxins--mercury, anaerobes, viruses--I haven't tested positive yet, for Lyme's. But want to have more testing done. As a small child I was bitten, and maybe it will be revealed that I have had chronic Lyme infection for many years, too.
My blood chemistries are monitored and sent to Dr. Huggins who designed, and adjusts, as needed, my Bio-Nutritional Guide. And I take his supplements and make many recipes from his cookbook (yes, he did write one). Anyway...
I wish you the very best in identifying any dental-related sources of your health problems snd in any choices you have in handling them. Have you ordered Huggins' protocol booklet? I would have that in hand at any visit to any dentist, biological, or otherwise. His de-tox and frequently asked questions booklets have been vital to me, too.
Will certainly be interested to hear how everything goes for you.
Lynn_B
Posts: 16 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2006
| IP: Logged |
posted
I am so glad to hear your inspiring story. Well done for getting to the root(!) of your problems. Glad the Cavitat helped you
Lymies talk a lot about eye problems and its interesting reading your account and how Huggins says its related to mercury toxicity.
Gigi is another great inspiration for us all here.
I had my amalgams removed 9 years ago but thought this essay was an interesting perspective.
Sunny thoughts Wallace
Amalgam Removal or Cavitation Surgery - Which Should Come First? �2004 Suzin Stockton This is a question I'm often asked, and about which I've only recently begun to have a solid point of view. I would say that the majority of dentists today, influenced by the ADA party line, would respond that neither amalgam removal nor cavitation surgery is necessary! And I would guess that the majority of `holistic' dentists -- even those familiar with cavitations (and not all are) -- would answer that amalgam removal should be the top priority. I believe this perspective is born more out of greater familiarity with the amalgam issue than anything else. If we take a close look at the facts, several good reasons emerge for addressing the cavitation issue first, at least diagnostically.
First, let me emphasize that a cavitation is a hollow area of dead (necrotic) or dying bone in the jaw. While bacteria may exist at cavitation sites, more often than not, few, if any, are found there, according to oral pathologist Jerry Bouquot. Bacterial trauma may certainly initiate the cavitation process, but by the time a cavitation is fully formed, infection is usually not a dominant clinical feature. A jawbone cavitation is predominantly an ischemic condition, one involving compromised blood flow to the area. The presence of dead bone interferes with blood supply, and any tooth remaining at the site slowly dies from lack of nourishment, lack of oxygen and inability to rid itself of toxins. This being the case, the treatment of choice is thorough surgical removal of any dead or dying bone in the jaw, along with extraction of any teeth at such sites. This will remove the conditions that may give rise to infection and prevent the spreading of jawbone necrosis (cavitations).
Because jawbone cavitations are largely a result of trauma to the jawbone, and the majority of that trauma for most of us comes from standard dental treatment (drilling of teeth, extractions, root canal therapy, etc.), it stands to reason that the condition can be aggravated in the course of amalgam replacement, which involves more drilling, more trauma to tooth and bone. These lesions (cavitations) tend to spread, and their spreading may be a causative factor when the patient with newly placed mercury-free restorations complains of jaw pain or toothache where none had been before.
Because many people have widespread necrosis in the jawbone (as evidenced through bone sonography Cavitat scans), the reality is that some degree of tooth loss is often necessary in order to get at dead bone to remove it and stop the bone loss process. This (cavitational) process has been referred to as gangrene of the jawbone by Colorado Springs cardiologist Thomas Levy. I like that description because it conveys the gravity of the situation, as well as an image of spreading tissue rot - exactly what we have with cavitations. Now, come into my common sense corner for a minute: From what you already know about cavitations, can you tell me which teeth are likely candidates for extraction? Those that have been filled, root canal treated or capped! And, if those restorations happen to contain mercury, how much sense does it make to further traumatize the tooth (and bone) by removing the amalgam-containing restoration and placing a biocompatible material without first checking the condition of the jawbone?? If the patient first gets a Cavitat scan, s/he may well find that some (or possibly all) of the teeth that would otherwise have undergone amalgam replacement will have to be extracted to get at the underlying bone necrosis. Now, who wants to undergo the trauma and expense of amalgam replacement, just to have it followed by loss of the very teeth that were just restored? And this is what may well happen if the person has a chronic cavitation problem. Since cavitations are often silent (i.e., cause no local symptoms), the patient (and dentist) may be totally unaware of the presence of this serious condition, and so not take it into consideration when planning amalgam replacement. This oversight may set the patient up for more dental problems down the road, even though all concerned had the best of intentions.
Another consideration in amalgam removal with someone who may have cavitations is the effect it could have on the microbial population of the oral cavity. Mercury, with all its associated problems, was once used extensively in medicine (and still is to a limited degree -- some hemorrhoid preparations contain it). In the 1300s, it was used in the form of ore cinnabar to treat syphilis. It was also once used to treat tuberculosis and rheumatism. The metal has been used medicinally because of its antiseptic qualities, a result of the denaturing of the enzymes of microorganisms. The anti-fungal effects of mercury are well known today. That's why it's used in some paints to retard mold. Could it be that mercury plays a similar role when placed in the teeth, that its presence controls the microbial population in the mouth to some degree? While I'm all for amalgam removal because of the well-documented insidious effects of mercury on the body, IF that amalgam lives in a mouth where there is oral infection, and then that mercury-containing amalgam is suddenly removed, it would seem possible that a result could be a proliferation of microbes in the mouth, causing a worsening of the infection. Given this possibility, it would seem wise to remove the conditions giving rise to ``focal infection'' (a walled off area of concentrated toxins and necrotic and/or infected tissue -- a cavitation!) prior to removing the mercury. Please understand clearly that I'm not arguing against amalgam removal, simply speculating that it may be in the body's best interest to first treat cavitation sites (by removing necrotic bone). Far from protecting the body from microbes, over the long haul, mercury will do just the opposite by weakening the immune system. Mercury contaminated neutrophils (immune macrophages that consume microorganisms) lose their ability to ingest yeast, allowing Candida and other yeast and fungi to overtake the body.
Finally, let's look at what can happen if amalgams are removed, cavitations go untreated, and the patient embarks upon an oral chelation program using a formula that contains the sulfur-containing amino acids methionine and cysteine. It is known that gram-negative anaerobic bacteria (the kind that may be found at cavitation sites) desulfurate these amino acids, resulting in the formation of volatile sulfur compounds - hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. These compounds, in turn, form complexes with mercury that greatly increase its toxicity. While the anaerobic bacteria will also take sulfur from the amino acids in the protein food we eat, and we can't do without protein to starve out the microbes, we can avoid giving them extra sulfur through our ingestion of it in oral chelation products. So if you're undergoing oral chelation following amalgam replacement and think you may have cavitations, it may be wise to use a chelating agent that does not contain methionine or cysteine. If you haven't yet replaced your amalgams, you may wish to treat cavitations first to eliminate any gram-negative anaerobic bacteria. Then there should be no problem in using a chelation formula that contains sulfur-bearing amino acids.
With regard to all of the above considerations, I would conclude that it is imperative to assess the condition of the jawbone (through use of bone sonography) before embarking upon amalgam replacement - or any type of restorative dental work. If the jawbone is shown to be in good condition, I see no contraindications to proceeding with amalgam replacement. If some of the amalgam-restored teeth are living in necrotic bone, then the patient may wish to have those teeth extracted in conjunction with cavitation surgery and then proceed to have the remaining mercury-containing restorations replaced. OR the order may be reversed. I don't have a strong point of view about this, though I do tend to favor handling cavitations first. What matters most is that amalgam replacement is not initiated without regard to condition of the jawbone, so that money isn't wasted restoring essentially dead teeth. Whichever order of treatment the patient chooses, I do believe there should be as little time as possible put between the two events. Left untreated, cavitations will spread, and so should be promptly addressed following amalgam replacement. If the cavitation surgery is done first, and mercury remains in the mouth, then a significant source of toxicity has gone unaddressed, and this will impede the healing process.
Another point that many miss is that oftentimes, after proper amalgam removal, some teeth subsequently die, contributing to cavitation formation. So it's important to have the jaws re-examined with sonography after amalgam removal, especially if one or more teeth become or remain sensitive.
I believe it is very important that both patients and dentists become more acutely aware of the importance of assessing the condition of the jawbone prior to initiating any treatment that will traumatize it and possibly cause the spreading of cavitations. Since bone sonography is the most reliable and detailed method of doing such as assessment, it is imperative that the technology be made available on a larger scale than it is now. There is also a clear and pressing need for more dentists who are trained in diagnosis and treatment of cavitations. Dentists may contact Cavitat Medical Technologies (303-755-2688) for information on bone sonography equipment and Dr. Wesley Shankland (614-794-0033) for information on an in-depth surgical training course that offers instruction in clinical application of bone sonography and gives continuing education credits.
Home
[email protected] POWER OF ONE PUBLISHING, c/o Renew Life, 2076 Sunnydale Blvd., Clearwater, FL 33765, USA 727-539-1700
Information on this site is for educational purposes
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
THE ROOTS OF DISEASE: CONNECTING DENTISTRY AND MEDICINE by Robert Kulacz, D.D.S. and Thomas Levy, M.D., J.D.
I took so much medicine I was sick a long time after I got well.
Carl Sandburg, The People, Yes
I was fortunate to be raised in a household where folk medicine was common practice. Therefore, when I was growing up, alternative medicine was always an option. We lived on an isolated farm in Michigan back then, but my grandmother Maggie had grown up in rural Mississippi, attuned to folkways. My youngest uncle suffered from epilepsy in those days before there was any reliable treatment for controlling seizures. I remember how Maggie would hover over him when he had a seizure, dribbling a thimbleful of laundry bluing into his mouth. Robert Kulacz, D.D.S. and Thomas E. Levy, M.D., J.D.
That was the remedy she had learned in Mississippi. (To this day, probably out of dread, I have never identified the specific ingredient in the laundry bluing manufactured in the thirties that was supposed to help my uncle recover from his seizures. But the important thing was that Maggie believed the treatment worked, and because she believed it, my uncle did, too.)
Years later, because of an accident I had on a movie set, the cartilage in my knees had virtually given out. At one point I could barely walk. I was advised to go to New Mexico to try a therapy with a German doctor who was practicing holistic medicine. He gave me injections of bee venom in my knees and other pressure points, and my condition improved, at least to the extent that I could function again. I had been told that I would eventually need to have knee replacement surgery, but the idea was to forestall replacement as long as I could. My experience with bee venom was my first attempt to elect alternative means of healing.
Before I met Dr. Robert Kulacz, I needed root canal surgery. After a number of tests, it was determined I should be very careful about the kind of metal that went into my teeth. I set out to learn all I could about the risks of mercury fillings. At the time, more and more people were acknowledging the potential problems with mercury fillings, but most dentists were reluctant to consider alternate materials. They did not want to let go of traditional methods or established treatments. I wanted to find a dentist who was open to new procedures, and my search eventually led me to Bob Kulacz.
When I approached him, he was aware of the controversy about mercury fillings but he had not yet tried alternative treatments. Not only did Dr. Kulacz agree to give me fillings without mercury, his fascination with the whole subject led him into extensive research. As this book demonstrates, he opens his mind to new possibilities in his field, investigating and testing as he tries to find the best ways of caring for his patients.
The book Dr. Kulacz and Dr. Levy have written explores the connection between dentistry and medicine. Connection is the key word here. Every human being is an entity of body, mind and spirit. In the universe of the human body, as the old song goes, "The head bone's connected to the neck bone," and so on. It is those dentists and physicians that look for connections who are most likely to serve their patients well. Not surprisingly, holistic medicine actively involves the patient as well as the doctor. The patient's obligation is to be as open minded and as aggressive as possible in the stewardship of his own health.
Laundry bluing, bee venom and an alternative to mercury: These three examples opened my mind. That is what I ask of you, the reader, as you pick up this book. Open your mind, and make your own thoughtful, informed decisions about what you may learn here.
James Earl Jones
INTRODUCTION
This book was written because it had to be written. From both the dental and medical perspectives, we have seen an epidemic of the most widespread proportions continue to widen rather than lessen. The hidden infections found in all root canal treated teeth continue to be arguably the most significant cause of many serious degenerative diseases, most notably cancer and heart disease. It is our opinion that the evidence clearly shows that many, if not most, significant diseases and medical conditions get their start in the dentist's chair. The dental procedures commonly performed every day by practicing dentists certainly initiate many, and worsen most, medical conditions.
Root canal treated teeth are not the only sources of dental infection, although they are probably the most significant in terms of the severity of the diseases they cause. Cavitations are another major contributing source of dental toxicity that remains virtually unknown to the vast majority of practicing dentists today in both the United States and the rest of the world. The case histories that we have cited are nevertheless very real, and the number of people affected by the toxicity of cavitations exceeds even the number of people affected by the toxicity of root canal treated teeth. The vast majority of people who have ever had teeth extracted, especially the larger teeth such as the wisdom teeth and molars, are suffering from the toxicity of these gangrenous holes in their jawbones. This also means that older dental patients who may feel that they have "escaped" the many toxins associated with modern dental care when they finally get full-mouth extractions and dentures have only traded one form of dental toxicity for another form. The denture wearers uniformly have an enormous amount of cavitation-related toxicity. In isolated patients, cavitation toxicity can be as bad or worse than root canal treated teeth toxicity.
Another enormous source of infective dental toxicity that has gained publicity in the last decade or so is that of periodontal, or gum- related, disease. The association between variable degrees of periodontal disease and very significant medical diseases such as heart disease and stroke has received unequivocal confirmation in the medical and dental literature. It appears clear that any dental infection, whether it is gum-related, root canal-related, cavitation- related, abscess-related, or implant-related, has very consistent and serious medical consequences.
Much of what we have written about in this book relates to the concept of focal infection. A focal infection seeds microbes and their associated toxins throughout the body. The mouth continues to be the most significant source of these seedings. While we have attempted to relate a number of compelling case histories of patients we have encountered with dental toxicity and focal infection-related clinical syndromes, we have also included an extensive appendix at the end of this book. This appendix contains only a sampling of the very many pertinent abstracts from the current dental and medical articles in the scientific literature. The reader can choose to just read the bulk of this book and trust that we are relating scientifically valid observations, or the motivated reader can also find even greater definitive support for our position on the toxicity of dental infections from this appendix of cited abstracts.
The premises offered in this book do affect the financial livelihoods of a large percentage of dentists. While we don't intend to speculate on any theories of conspiracy or other such dark notions, it is very important to always fully appreciate the "money trail" when trying to understand why things work they way do. Presently, an endodontist who fully understood, appreciated, and acknowledged the validity of all the information presented in this book would simply have to stop doing root canal procedures. It is no surprise, then, that very few endodontists are open to even considering whether this information could be true. Ironically, if the discerning endodontist was reading this book carefully, it would be obvious to him or her that a enormous amount of work still remains to be done in order to properly address the untold numbers of cavitations that need proper surgical cleaning. Endodontists could very well end up becoming cavitation specialists after giving up doing root canal procedures. However, it would involve both a major change in dental practice, additional training, and a complete renouncement of the fatally flawed root canal procedure. Like most people, dental specialists such as endodontists don't like having the "rules" changed after their formal educations have been completed. Nor do they wish to entertain theories and concepts that conflict with the foundations of their original professional educations. Massive change will always be resisted, regardless of how appropriate that change may be. This is not to say that endodontists and other dentists intend to hurt anyone. They simply refuse to believe that a major change in the way they practice dentistry is in the best health interests of the public.
Unfortunately, the root canal procedure is presently being performed more frequently than ever before. By the early 1960's root canal procedures were performed in the United States at the rate of about 3 million per year. This rate increased to roughly 40 million per year by the early 1990's. Currently (2002) in the United States more than 50 million root canal procedures are being performed per year. Since the international dental community largely follows the lead of the United States, the frequency of root canals is similarly skyrocketing across the world. Even if modern medicine finds some way to keep patients alive while lessening their symptoms with prescription medications, chronic degenerative diseases can be expected to appear ever earlier in life as more and more root canal procedures are performed. Indeed, many cardiologists will tell you that only a few decades ago it was almost unheard of for a man in his 20's to sustain a heart attack. Now it is not so uncommon. We feel the evidence presented in this book clearly demonstrates that dental toxicity is a primary reason for the appearance of heart disease as well as many other chronic degenerative diseases.
From the perspectives of both dentistry and medicine, we believe the science supporting the toxicity of the root canal treated tooth, the cavitation, the implanted tooth, the abscessed tooth, and infected gum tissue is not in doubt, and actually has not been in doubt for a very long time. We feel very strongly that dentists and physicians must be guided entirely by what is scientifically true and by what is in the best health interests of their patients. The desire to avoid change and to regard all historical as well as current scientific beliefs as being beyond reproach and question must no longer play any role in health care. The education of our dentists and physicians must truly be a lifelong process that does not end upon acceptance of a diploma. The license to practice a dental or medical discipline is a privilege, not a right. Most education begins after the awarding of an academic degree. Dentists and physicians alike must take full responsibility for the welfare of their patients. They must always strive to attain the complete truth in their knowledge base, to follow the most effective of treatment philosophies, and to maintain the greatest of integrity in their care giving.
1
ROOT CANAL PROCEDURES:
ANATOMICAL AND CLINICAL ASPECTS
None of the Usual Suspects
Mr. Smith's condition was deteriorating rapidly. It had been a month since his shortness of breath forced him to be admitted to the hospital. His family was gathered in a conference room along with two of his physicians. The pulmonologist, ( lung specialist), spoke to the group:
"We do not have any answers as to the cause of Mr. Smith's condition. We looked everywhere for a primary source for the infection but we found nothing." At that point I (RK) felt compelled to speak up:
"No you didn't. You didn't check his mouth. Mr. Smith has two root canals and moderate to severe gum disease."
The pulmonologist appeared to completely ignore my comment, although his quick glance at the cardiologist sitting in the corner appeared to be an attempt to see if he had support in regarding me as another renegade dentist who just didn't get it. It was very clear to me that this doctor was not willing to even entertain the possibility of an oral focus as the cause of Mr. Smith's condition. Unfortunately, Mr. Smith died the next day.
With the family's permission I obtained Mr. Smith's complete hospital record. There were more question marks and frustrated uncertainties in the chart than there were definitive answers. It seemed that nobody had any idea why Mr. Smith was sick. Certainly, nobody put into writing any scientifically plausible hypothesis as to why Mr. Smith was so sick. Multiple consultations by a variety of medical specialists led to the same diagnostic dead end. Lacking any clear answers for his condition, these consultants literally flooded his body with antibiotics, even though all of the blood cultures testing for bacteria turned out negative. When the first set of antibiotics failed to produce any clinical improvement, different antibiotics were tried. This non-focused, machine gun-like administration of multiple drugs continued until Mr. Smith's kidneys and liver could no longer handle the toxic assault of the side effects of those drugs, along with the toxic effects of his underlying disease. Faced with this toxicity and the ongoing stress of the unchecked infection, these organs finally began to shut down. And, still, there was no diagnosis. There was never a diagnosis. The question marks continued to pile up in the medical record.
Mr. Smith, however, is not such an unusual case. Many people die every day in hospitals without a clear diagnosis. The final cause of death in such a patient commonly ends up being the "diagnosis," such as heart attack, blood clot, stroke, or respiratory failure. But what led up to so many of these "final causes" of death?
Sixteen years ago Mr. Smith had a root canal procedure on one of his teeth. During this treatment process he developed a heart infection known as sub-acute bacterial endocarditis (SBE). This infection was caused by bacteria from the infected tooth that had undergone the root canal procedure. These bacteria entered the bloodstream and traveled to Mr. Smith's heart, where the bacteria actually invaded and grew upon one of the heart valves. The damage to the heart valve was so severe that it became necessary to do a heart valve replacement surgery.
SBE is often a life-threatening illness. Although an infected tooth is not the only source of the bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause SBE, Mr. Smith's SBE was clearly traced to his root canal treated tooth. This raised a very significant and logical question: After already having had such a severe illness caused by a dental infection, why was the possibility of disease-provoking oral bacteria as a cause for Mr. Smith's current illness not explored? The answers will shock you. As we shall see, one or more root canal treated teeth should always at least be given consideration as a primary cause, or a secondary and contributory cause, in the vast majority of diseases and clinical syndromes.
What Isn't Taught Doesn't Exist
The dental school curriculum exposes students to the basic biological sciences, such as biochemistry and physiology. However, most students regard these courses only as necessary requirements for graduation. They are not viewed as important building blocks for achieving a comprehensive understanding of how the body works and how the diseases of the mouth affect the rest of the body. There are few references to general medicine in dental school training, and little, if any, practical integration of the basic sciences into the clinical practice of dentistry. The main focus of a dental education is on the clinical and technical skills necessary for the everyday practice of dentistry. The basic sciences that should be thoroughly understood by any person with the title of "Doctor" are almost completely neglected by students in the dental school curriculum. Most dentists graduating from dental school are lacking a true understanding of the basic sciences. Their knowledge of general medicine ends up being literally little more than that of laypersons, unless they are motivated to study medicine further on their own.
Similarly, physicians must also take the basic biological science courses in medical school. But they, too, end up primarily focused on the clinical and practical aspects of their educations. There is very little mention of dentistry in medical school. Physicians are not trained in the diagnosis or treatment of dental disease, and they certainly receive no education regarding the materials used in dentistry. It's almost as if there is an unspoken understanding between dentistry and medicine that one has nothing to do with the other! Therefore, it should come as no surprise that many medical diseases caused by dental infections often go undiagnosed. In fact, as we saw earlier, it is rare that a dental infection such as is found in the root canal treated tooth is even given consideration as a possible contributing cause to a medical condition.
So, herein lies the problem. Dentists are not trained in medicine, and physicians are not trained in dentistry. In other words, NOBODY IS MINDING THE STORE! Both the medical and dental professions have largely ignored the vital mutual relationship between their respective disciplines. However, we will see that this was not always the situation. But let us first try to understand better what a "root canal" is, which is the common way of referring to a root canal treated tooth. Then, we will see why this dental infection is so often devastating to the overall health of the patient.
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
Dr Kulacz is currently writing a new book with Dr Hussar, the dentist Dr K uses. So until that appears this is the only guide to how these docs proceed with cavitations.
The Cavitat scan is discussed and dismissed and all root canals should be removed, according tho the book. A pulp test should be used for the remaining teeth to make sure that are alive and healthy. Iv vitamin C and antibiotics are used. Sunny thoughts, Wallace 16 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
A Book Everyone Should Read, May 24, 2004 Reviewer: Lisa M McDonald (Maricopa, AZ) - See all my reviews
I found this book to be well written and easy to understand. I know it inflames the dental community, but I have found that in medicine, as well as dentistry, there are always people who are brave enough to speak out. Although this book mostly covers root canal & cavitations, I can remember the first doctors who were brave enough to tell us that mercury amalgams were not safe--they were crucified by their fellow dentists. Now, most dentists have quietly started using composite fillings rather than mercury. They say it is because they are new and there is nothing wrong with mercury, but I do believe they know the truth and just do not want to admit error or deal with the lawyers. This happens alot in medicine too. For years, the anit- vaccine people were screaming that the polio vaccine was causing polio and the medical community screamed back that they were nuts. Again without admitting they were wrong, they now give a polio vaccine by injection first to prevent polio from the oral vaccine. I am an RN, so I do believe in controlled studies, but I also can use my brain and know when things just make sense. This book makes alot of sense. All the research money goes to people who run with the popular crowd, so that is the side we will always see researched and printed in the newspaper. I say, read this book and think for yourself. Knowledge is power. We all have the right to do what we think is best with our bodies. I read this stuff because I am tired of the experts telling me not to worry my pretty little head about such complicated information--they will read it all for me and tell me what to do. This is a good read!
Customer Reviews Average Customer Review: Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
Thank God for this book!, July 20, 2005 Reviewer: Susan (Ohio) - See all my reviews Thank God for this book and Dr.Kulacz! A M.D. from the Cleveland Clinic told me about Dr.Kulacz and this book. When reading this book about some of the other patients I thought I was reading about myself. This book is as truthful as it gets about root canals , dental materials and proper procedures about extractions. This book is a must read for the people that suspect that their teeth may be one of the culprits to their health issues. Of course after reading this book I would think most sensible people would not take drastic action as to extract their own teeth ,as one person posted. I would love to stand outside of every dentist office and pass out this book to patients that are about to get a root canal. This book opens your eyes to the other side of root canals that your dentist will not tell you before the procedure. By the way your natural teeth are not better if they are giving you pain and lowering your immune system. You must read this book if you are searching for the truth about your teeth problems. Dr.Kulacz has integrity and morals which is what you would expect from any doctor. If I could I would rate this book higher than a five.
Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
11 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
Vital information for your health, November 11, 2004 Reviewer: Desert Dweller - See all my reviews I have not only read this book, but have also been a patient of Dr. Kulacz. Unfortunately, many detractors choose wishful thinking over verifiable, scientific fact. They pay for their ongoing denial with health troubles. Nobody wants to lose any teeth, but if the alternative is long term devastating health problems, the loss of a tooth is a small price to pay. I was in this category with both root canals and the related dental infections and they badly affected my health. Once removed I felt noticeably better. To further prove the case, the extracted tooth was sent to a lab for testing and the results confirmed serious infection. Study the subject and look at the evidnce and you will agree with me. Read all the related books as the evidence is overwhelming. Find one of the very few dentists around the country experienced in this protocol. PS, Most dentists know virtually nothing about any of this. It is therefore your health and your responsibility.
Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
11 of 39 people found the following review helpful:
Provacative and inflammatory, May 6, 2004 Reviewer: A reader It seems that after reading this book one would be inclined to take drastic action, like extracting thier OWN valuable teeth. Teeth need root canal treatment beacause they are infected in the first place. Most of the time, the infection is totally removed (85-95%). Yes there are instances where this infection is resolved, in which case extraction may be needed. Yes after extraction there may be bacteria left behind so what then....extract your whole jaw???? (did some one forget to mention that we have an immune system that has been dealing with bacteria, fungi and viruses for long before dentistry was around). Okay so our jaw is removed and some of the naturally occuring bacteris on our skin (yes our skin is not sterile) gets into the wound. Then what, ask for a decapitation? This seems to be the line of though given by the aurthor/s and it is totaly irrational. Example 2. You get a scratch on your arm and yes bacteria get in, the skin heals over and traps the bacteria....what would the aurthor suggest...an amputation of your arm? Or doest he think he can pluck out microscopic bacteria (that are too small for see) with tweezers. Non-sense.
Our body parts are valuable, we have an immune system that fights bacteria and heals wounds/infections. We have marvelous doctors and dentists that can help the body beat these problems..so we can keep our body parts. Natural teeth are better that articfical anything.
Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
14 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
Ripping the Fabric of Denial, November 24, 2003 Reviewer: "synchronicity2" (central florida) - See all my reviews This book is excellent at 1) establishing evidence that there is a signifcant problem and 2) that the system is in full blown denial about it. I would recommend it to anyone who is curious about the downside of root canals. Root canals are covered extensively but amalgram toxicity is only briefly touched upon. A detailed explanation of cavitations(little bits of gangrenous tissue left from extracted teeth)is also covered. A extensive explanation of the status quo is given. There are biopsy reports, testimonials and scientific abstracts cited. The authors seem quite dedicated. That said, I must admit I don't love this book. While I'm now convinced that a bad root canal can be deadly I didn't get any sense of proportion from the book. If every single root canal was as deadly as charged people would be keeling over right and left. I'm usually part of the "don't take a chance" coalition but the only alternative offered is extraction, and a particularly deep and extensive one at that. There was no emphasis on getting new research or better diagnostic tools. But what was really disturbing was the sense that teeth had no value. They are to be gotten rid of at the least sign of deep infection. And there is no section on dealing with good altenatives. The authors never really state what replaces the extracted teeth - dentures? implants? baby food?
All in all, if you suspect your teeth or dental work are "not quite right" despite a clean checkup this is a good read.
Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
10 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
Best health book I have read, October 28, 2003 Reviewer: "morrowch2" (Wayne, PA United States) - See all my reviews I not only read this book, but I scheduled surgery with Dr. Kulacz to have my root canaled teeth removed shortly thereafter! I suffered some health problems after having root canals and an extraction. Since having Dr. Kulacz perform the surgery, I am back to almost 100%. It's amazing. People, the information in this book is vital to you if you have had dental problems. For those of you considering having surgery with him, I found the entire staff very kind and caring. I had much drilling on both sides of my mouth, and yet did not need much pain meds afterward. It was my body's way of thanking me for getting rid of all the bacteria and toxins! I think this is the answer, folks!
Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
To the opponents I say - let them face Lyme Disease. To the opponents I say - let them face the cancer. Gangrene tissue? Holy (with holes in it)mushy (like oatmeal mush) jawbone?
Sorry, folks. I am living proof that you can have a life after Lyme Disease and live a healthy life without root canals. I was depressed and "dead" before Lyme disease. I was close to death after the tick bite hit.
I then addressed my fillings, crowns, bridges and root canals. And cavitations of the jawbone. And then the deadly toxins therefrom that had entered my brain and the rest of my body.
I am now a healthy 74 year old, with more life and energy than I had when I was 50. My kids took my 15 foot ladder away because they insist I no longer climb on the two-story roof to clean the skylights! And they are also very slow in returning my chain saw!!!
Everybody forgets that really, really most the time, the trouble starts with amalgams/mercury. That's the forerunner. The mercury destroys the nerve conduction - the tubulin, inside the cells, inside the nerves. The root canals are already a consequence of the contamination and destructiveness of the mercury.
If you have both, it is suggested that the amalgams be removed first, because healing the affected jawbone or clearing the brain is not happening with the mercury still in your teeth.
It has to be followed by a mercury and thioether detoxification that takes a minimum of two years, if done right. Usually it takes longer. Most people start feeling better a few months after the removal. Some but not many, right away. We forget that the neurotoxins produced by the teeth have usually had a long time to penetrate into all body areas.
We are one body. The head is connected to the rest of the body. If the head is toxic, the rest of the body can't possibly be spanky clean and makes a wonderful playground for Lyme and company.
Take care.
[ 11. February 2006, 12:19 PM: Message edited by: GiGi ]
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
posted
Hi Gigi Thanks for hanging around for some of us latecomers to finally get the message!
When you were saying all this on Lymestrategies to people on Salt/C I was interested but thought I would continue on my search for that silver bullet supplement for a while yet. Besides I didn't have root canals or mercury(removed a while ago) I reasoned, well finally I got to the end of my list and decided I needed to look for a Biological dentist.
I notice a lot of people on Salt/C are continuing on regardless of your sound advice!
My Dentists have got a waiting list but now I am now on it!
If your LLMD is not working with a good dentist demand to know why not!!!
A late convert, Wallace
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
GiGi
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 259
posted
Wallace, you said
quote:I notice a lot of people on Salt/C are continuing on regardless of your sound advice!
Somewhere down the road they are going to be enlightened. Salt & C may set a bit of mercury free in the die-off, but the mercury has this habit of circulating the body until it finds another convenient spot, unless the people take a few other precautions alongside Salt & C. In other words, our body is always trying to hide the nasty stuff someplace else, in order that our body can still function.
I hate to think some are doing Salt & C with amalgams still in their mouth!
Cysts and tumors have been disected, as have removed prostate glands. The mercury is holed up in those things also.
It is so much wiser and safer to get it out of the body, even though it takes some extra effort. Whether we pay the bill now or ten years down the road with even higher medical bills, not to speak of the suffering -- should be an easy decision.
quote: If your LLMD is not working with a good dentist demand to know why not!!!
Just want to say here: because I can count the good dentists on my ten fingers. They are not taught to think for themselves; they follow the American Dental Association's rules. And by the time they have been practicing with amalgam a few years, they are so toxic themselves, thinking logically becomes extremely difficult.
I hope and pray you have found a good one, Wallace. Thank you.
Take care.
Posts: 9834 | From Washington State | Registered: Oct 2000
| IP: Logged |
Boomerang
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7979
posted
All too much for me to think of.
Now we're supposed to have all our fillings removed? When we have parents and grandparents who have lived until age 90?
I don't quite buy it all........but it could be something to do with immune systems.
I just wonder if all these supplements, etc are the wrong way to go.
Just take the ABX and be done with it. I know of a person who was NeuroLyme, and took IV antibiotics and was fine after 7 months.
He didn't take a lot of of supplements, etc......just did the IV and was done.
Granted, it took a long time, but why can't the rest of us do that?
Makes you wonder if the Lymies aren't running a scam themselves......pushing their supplements, and vitamins.
I dunno.........just thinking about it.......
Posts: 1366 | From Southeast | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
Boomerang
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7979
posted
All too much for me to think of.
Now we're supposed to have all our fillings removed? When we have parents and grandparents who have lived until age 90?
I don't quite buy it all........but it could be something to do with immune systems.
I just wonder if all these supplements, etc are the wrong way to go.
Just take the ABX and be done with it. I know of a person who was NeuroLyme, and took IV antibiotics and was fine after 7 months.
He didn't take a lot of of supplements, etc......just did the IV and was done.
Granted, it took a long time, but why can't the rest of us do that?
Makes you wonder if the Lymies aren't running a scam themselves......pushing their supplements, and vitamins.
I dunno.........just thinking about it.......
Posts: 1366 | From Southeast | Registered: Sep 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
Wallace Removing dental work could save your life by Hal Huggins, D.D.S., M.S.
Did you realise that your dentist can have as much of an impact on your overall health as your doctor? Chances are, your answer to this is no. But it's the truth. A truth that, unfortunately, is not being heard. Mainstream physicians and dentists refuse to open their eyes to the connection between dentistry and medicine. While I've managed to help hundreds of patients eliminate their sickening symptoms and disease, the establishment continues to ignore the fact that what goes on in your mouth can have a great impact on what goes on in the rest of your body. And that their standard dental procedures are making people sick and putting your health at risk.
Thirty-one years ago, Melvin Page, D.D.S. opened my eyes to the vital connection between dentistry and medicine. He taught me that dental decay is not about acid attacks or bacterial assaults on a tooth. Instead, decay is a systemic process dependent upon what you swallow and what your body then absorbs. What you chew and then leave behind on your teeth is not the real cause of decay and disease. And, if you were to examine your blood levels, you would be able to predict whether or not your body is in a decay-prone or decay-resistant mode. When you are susceptible to dental decay, you are also susceptible to degenerative disease. Thus, it's important to realise that what your dentist does can have a huge impact on your overall health.
Your teeth are living things Although the close relationship between dentistry and medicine is often overlooked, it isn't hard to understand. Consider the landmark research of Ralph Steinman, M.D., at Loma Lima University. He demonstrated that teeth are actually comprised of living structures that transport fluids completely throughout each tooth, including dentin and enamel portions. This transport system pulls bacteria and debris into the tooth and also supplies nutrients to the tooth, helping it to actively resist decay. Once you understand that teeth are living structures, an "organ" so to speak, it's easy to see the importance of the communication between medicine and dentistry. It's accepted that treating the heart or liver - or any other organ - has ramifications on the body as a whole. So, if teeth are in fact living parts of the body, is it not possible that dental treatments could also affect the whole body?
The silent poison - mercury Once I accepted the interconnectedness between dentistry and medicine and recognised the incredible healing potential in a complementary approach, I also realised the implications of my treatments and the dangers that lie in traditional dentistry. Olympio Pinto, C.D., of Rio de Janeiro, was the man who first showed me the danger of mercury fillings. He explained to me that mercury coming off the silver-coloured fillings I had been replacing so feverishly in my patients actually contained about 50 percent unstable mercury that leached out of fillings on a minute-to-minute basis. He pointed out that white blood cells are especially sensitive to dental mercury and that I should monitor their levels while placing or removing silver/mercury- amalgam fillings. Sure enough, when I pursued his suggestion, I saw he was right.
The leukaemia connection - dismissed In fact, I realised that there might be a link between the silver/mercury-amalgam fillings and some forms of leukaemia (characterised by extremely elevated white blood cell counts). Sure enough, when I removed the fillings in a specific way the results could be dramatic. White blood-cell counts that were in the 100,000 to 200,000 count range due to leukaemia could drop to 60,000 points - in 24 hours.
Finally, I thought, a chance to bring treatment to the thousands of people suffering from so-called "untreatable" diseases. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. I had crossed the line. My practice, and success, was not accepted. Dentistry cannot affect medical diseases. Neither profession likes that. Unbelievable? How could such incredible results be dismissed? Is there something wrong with the procedure? Absolutely not, but while dentists and doctors fight over territoria1lines, innocent patients are dying. Prejudice like this must be abolished.
A lesson to be learned If you think I'm being overly dramatic let me give you an example of what can happen when doctors and dentists don't see the need to work together. Years ago, I learned of an 8-year old boy in dire need of care. His grandmother had read one of my books and called me. She told me that after getting two fillings the boy was diagnosed with leukaemia. "What should we do?" she pleaded. By this point in my practice, I had found that leukaemia and other "non responsive" diseases require a particular protocol in order to elicit a positive response. Unfortunately, the family and doctors were not supportive of the idea of a dentist helping to treat the boy's leukaemia.
Thus, the doctors treated the boy with chemotherapy -six different types -over the next six weeks. Only then was the boy finally given a few days at home. Under the grandmother's urging, a colleague of mine secretly removed the boy's fillings. As soon as the fillings were out, the leukaemia went into remission. However, it took the doctors six days to finally tell the family.
Unable to accept that it was a real remission, the doctors speculated that the leukaemia was about to come on even stronger. Thus, in order to save the family from false hope, they administered an extremely large "protective" dose of chemotherapy. Tragically, the little boy died.
Did the leukaemia never go into remission? Or did the boy's tiny body give up after the final assault of chemotherapy? I suppose there is no definitive answer, but I do believe that his death might not have happened had dentistry and medicine been able to work together.
Root canals bring deadly toxins Sometimes medicine and dentistry do work together, and the results speak for themselves. Allow me to tell one more story. A few years ago, a former patient phoned me. "I have been hearing about you lately and, not having spoken with you for 10 years, thought I'd ask what's new," she said. I told her how I had recently learned about the problems with root canals and how they harboured a toxin as deadly as botulin. The dental establishment, unfortunately, did not agree with me.
That afternoon, my former patient noticed an ambulance pulling up to her neighbour's door. The neighbour's 11-year-old daughter was carried out, accompanied by her distraught mother. Being a caring neighbour, my patient went with them to the hospital. The daughter had slipped into a coma. She had been totally healthy, and the doctors could find no reason for her sudden illness. After yet another specialist confirmed the seriousness of the young girl's condition, the two neighbours began to talk. My patient learned that just three days before, the 11-year-old had gone to the dentist. Although he found a mouthful of nice-Iooking teeth, with no cavities and no fillings, he insisted on X-raying the roots of her teeth, just to be safe. The dentist determined that, according to the X-ray, the girl had a tooth that needed a root canal. It turns out that this particular tooth had only recently erupted. With no decay and no pain, why did she need a root canal in a freshly erupted tooth? Could it be that newly erupted teeth still have wide- open root ends, which don't completely form until after they have been in the mouth for a few years?
Instead, the dentist had determined that the normal wide-open end was in fact a "painless" abscess - which is impossible, as you know if you've ever suffered an abscess.
The girl had behaved somewhat abnormally that night, and didn't go to school the next two days because she felt "fuzzy." Then she slipped into the coma. My patient, thinking back to our conversation, suggested they tell the doctors about the dental procedure and that they call me.
Of course, their paediatrician assured me that if there were anything wrong with root canals, the authorities would protect us. I pushed for a while, talked with two more doctors, and then finally ended up with a "double degree" man. This was a maxillo- facial surgeon with both a medical degree and a dental degree. I told him what I thought about the case, and, after thinking a few minutes, he said, "Sounds reasonable to me. What do we have to lose?" Within seconds of the removal of the root canal, the child began to respond. Within an hour, she was up, walking around and was hungry. The doctors were shocked and wanted her to stay in intensive care for a week. By the next day, however, she was discharged because she had disrupted the hospital by running all over the place and hiding from the nurses. A miracle? Hardly. Toxicologists tell me that toxic responses happen as fast as electrical responses in the body. Once you remove the source of the problem, nature takes over -and miracles aren't needed.
Achieving an integrated approach So where exactly do these two disciplines blend? There is a lot of overlap in autoimmune and degenerative diseases. Besides leukaemia, I've seen over 1000 multiple sclerosis patients respond postively to my treatment. It has also been highly effective for those with myriad debilitating symptoms.
Sadly the delay in integration isn't due to the complexity of the procedures; it exists because the concept is still too threatening to mainstream physicians and dentists. And this senseless fear is more serious than just creating inconvenience for those seeking a complementary approach to dentistry -it can be downright dangerous. Consider mercury fillings, for example. It's easy enough to understand why you need to remove the fillings: mercury from fillings likes to cling to the oxygen- carrying sites of haemoglobin in your blood cells. The result is that you carry lots of mercury in your blood but not enough oxygen.
Removal can become dangerous, however, when one professional is set on doing it without the help of the other. A dentist can't just remove a mercury filling or correct a root canal and think a patient is cured. The protocol of dental revision involves removing fillings in a certain sequence, according to their electrical current. If your dentist violates this principle, you as a patient may end up learning firsthand about autoimmune diseases.
Removal procedures yield the best results when vitamin C is given intravenously at the time of the removal. Most dentists, however, haven't the first clue as to how to set up and administer an I-V solution. Thus, it is ideal that the dentist be working with a physician. I have also found acupressure or massage to be an effective means of controlling pain during a filling removal. And, of course, no one can recover fully without considering the point that I started with -the future health of your teeth and body is dependent upon the food the body is given as a source of nutrition and energy.
For you to really reap the benefits of having dental work removed, I recommend detoxifying your body. Just getting fillings and root canals out of your body does little to cleanse it. Afterwards, it requires the combined cooperation of several health professionals to determine the exercise, IV procedures, chemical or nonchemical detoxification, and nutritional protocol that may be appropriate to you specifically. Many of my patients report feeling liberated after experiencing complementary dentistry. It can provide relief from ailments and symptoms for many who have been told over and over, that their problems are all in their heads. Of course, the irony is that they truly are. Once the source of the problem is eliminated, the patient will recover.
When I think about all this foolishness and the patients who have been made to suffer because of the prejudices between dentists and doctors, it makes me extremely frustrated with the system. I've heard many patients who have experienced personal frustration and pain due to the lack of complementary dental offices say such things as: I "Who needs doctors?" and "Who needs dentists?" The truth is that we all do, but the two professions need to work together more.
� Copyright Wholistic Research Company 2001 Click here for additional copyright
Posts: 654 | Registered: Oct 2003
| IP: Logged |
The Lyme Disease Network is a non-profit organization funded by individual donations. If you would like to support the Network and the LymeNet system of Web services, please send your donations to:
The
Lyme Disease Network of New Jersey 907 Pebble Creek Court,
Pennington,
NJ08534USA http://www.lymenet.org/
UBBFriend: Email this page to someone!
![[Cool]](cool.gif)
Printer-friendly view of this topic