FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY
Welcome to Baltimore Dental Co., where we believe a healthy smile is integral to your overall well-being. Serving Baltimore County and the surrounding areas, our dedicated team is passionate about providing comprehensive dental care beyond traditional dentistry. We offer a unique blend of conservative treatments and a functional, whole-body approach, ensuring your smile supports optimal health.
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY?
Functional dentistry is a paradigm shift in how dental disease is treated and managed. In a conventional dental approach, dental disease is identified and a one-size-fits-all treatment is applied. In this model, when patients ask what they can do to prevent new cavities, for example, they are told to brush more, floss more, don’t eat candy, and use antiseptic mouthwash.
The reality is that a person could do all of those things every day and still develop cavities over and over again because the root cause of that person’s cavities was not identified. It is likely not just because floss isn’t passing between the teeth nightly. This is what functional dentistry is: digging deeper than the basic, superficial recommendations. As a functional dentist, I am looking at medical history, medications, sleep, breathing, facial development, habits, lifestyle, micronutrients, and of course, diet. All of these factors are so critical to investigate.
The key to functional dentistry and integrative dentistry is that the whole body is considered concerning oral health (in simpler terms: the mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of the body). Medical practice likes to separate all the different parts of the human body, but of course, the reality is that everything is connected. If there is systemic inflammation and disease, there will also be oral inflammation and disease.
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY?
Functional dentistry is a paradigm shift in how dental disease is treated and managed. In a conventional dental approach, dental disease is identified and a one-size-fits-all treatment is applied. In this model, when patients ask what they can do to prevent new cavities, for example, they are told to brush more, floss more, don’t eat candy, and use antiseptic mouthwash.
The reality is that a person could do all of those things every day and still develop cavities over and over again because the root cause of that person’s cavities was not identified. It is likely not just because floss isn’t passing between the teeth nightly. This is what functional dentistry is: digging deeper than the basic, superficial recommendations. As a functional dentist, I am looking at medical history, medications, sleep, breathing, facial development, habits, lifestyle, micronutrients, and of course, diet. All of these factors are so critical to investigate.
The key to functional dentistry and integrative dentistry is that the whole body is considered concerning oral health (in simpler terms: the mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of the body). Medical practice likes to separate all the different parts of the human body, but of course, the reality is that everything is connected. If there is systemic inflammation and disease, there will also be oral inflammation and disease.
WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY?
Functional dentistry is a paradigm shift in how dental disease is treated and managed. In a conventional dental approach, dental disease is identified and a one-size-fits-all treatment is applied. In this model, when patients ask what they can do to prevent new cavities, for example, they are told to brush more, floss more, don’t eat candy, and use antiseptic mouthwash.
The reality is that a person could do all of those things every day and still develop cavities over and over again because the root cause of that person’s cavities was not identified. It is likely not just because floss isn’t passing between the teeth nightly. This is what functional dentistry is: digging deeper than the basic, superficial recommendations. As a functional dentist, I am looking at medical history, medications, sleep, breathing, facial development, habits, lifestyle, micronutrients, and of course, diet. All of these factors are so critical to investigate.
The key to functional dentistry and integrative dentistry is that the whole body is considered concerning oral health (in simpler terms: the mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of the body). Medical practice likes to separate all the different parts of the human body, but of course, the reality is that everything is connected. If there is systemic inflammation and disease, there will also be oral inflammation and disease.
THE FOCAL POINTS OF FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY
Diet and Lifestyle
Oral Microbiome
Sleep and Airway
WHAT WE DO DIFFERENTLY
Functional dentistry is health-centered care that prioritizes identifying the root cause, treating the root cause, and preventing new dental diseases through lifestyle changes.
- Analyze your medical history concerning dental health.
- Comprehensively evaluate the entire oral cavity and document all findings.
- Assess risk and disease severity.
- Test the oral microbiome.
- Investigate potential nutritional issues.
- Evaluate breathing and airway.
- Determine the root causes.
- Develop a specialized and personalized plan for you.
“Integrative Dental Medicine seeks to restore and maintain health and wellness across a person’s lifespan by addressing the full range of influences that affect oral and systemic health. This goes beyond the treatment of oral symptoms to address all the causes of illness and disease. In doing so, the patient’s immediate health needs as well as the effects of the long-term and complex interplay between oral and systemic influences are taken into account."
- quote from “The Shift” by DeWitt Wilkerson, DMD
Personalized Wellness Review
Discover the Connection Between Oral Health and Whole-Body Wellness
At Baltimore Dental Co., we believe that true health begins in the mouth and extends far beyond it. As a leading provider of functional dental care in Maryland, we are committed to helping patients understand how their oral health influences their entire body.
Rachel, RDH, CNHP, CNC, CDSS, is dedicated to uncovering the deeper connections between dentistry and overall wellness. Through our Personalized Wellness Reviews, she works one-on-one with patients to identify their most important health questions, uncover underlying imbalances, and create a clear path forward.
Each Personalized Wellness Review includes a comprehensive, one-hour consultation with Rachel. During this time, she will:
- Deeply review your medical history and current medications to understand how they may be impacting your daily life
- Review foundational health factors, including nutrition and lifestyle habits, to identify root causes and uncover missing links
- Evaluate your current supplement routine and identify products that may not be compatible with your body
- Provide educational guidance and collaborate with you on questions to bring to your primary care provider when appropriate
- Determine your greatest health priorities and create a personalized action plan
Personalized Wellness Review
Discover the Connection Between Oral Health and Whole-Body Wellness
At Baltimore Dental Co., we believe that true health begins in the mouth and extends far beyond it. As a leading provider of functional dental care in Maryland, we are committed to helping patients understand how their oral health influences their entire body.
Rachel, RDH, CNHP, CNC, CDSS, is dedicated to uncovering the deeper connections between dentistry and overall wellness. Through our Personalized Wellness Reviews, she works one-on-one with patients to identify their most important health questions, uncover underlying imbalances, and create a clear path forward.
Each Personalized Wellness Review includes a comprehensive, one-hour consultation with Rachel. During this time, she will:
- Deeply review your medical history and current medications to understand how they may be impacting your daily life
- Review foundational health factors, including nutrition and lifestyle habits, to identify root causes and uncover missing links
- Evaluate your current supplement routine and identify products that may not be compatible with your body
- Provide educational guidance and collaborate with you on questions to bring to your primary care provider when appropriate
- Determine your greatest health priorities and create a personalized action plan
Personalized Wellness Review
Discover the Connection Between Oral Health and Whole-Body Wellness
At Baltimore Dental Co., we believe that true health begins in the mouth and extends far beyond it. As a leading provider of functional dental care in Maryland, we are committed to helping patients understand how their oral health influences their entire body.
Rachel, RDH, CNHP, CNC, CDSS, is dedicated to uncovering the deeper connections between dentistry and overall wellness. Through our Personalized Wellness Reviews, she works one-on-one with patients to identify their most important health questions, uncover underlying imbalances, and create a clear path forward.
Each Personalized Wellness Review includes a comprehensive, one-hour consultation with Rachel. During this time, she will:
- Deeply review your medical history and current medications to understand how they may be impacting your daily life
- Review foundational health factors, including nutrition and lifestyle habits, to identify root causes and uncover missing links
- Evaluate your current supplement routine and identify products that may not be compatible with your body
- Provide educational guidance and collaborate with you on questions to bring to your primary care provider when appropriate
- Determine your greatest health priorities and create a personalized action plan
A Partnership in Your Wellness Journey
A Partnership in Your Wellness Journey
Many patients choose to continue meeting with Rachel through structured wellness packages so they can receive ongoing guidance and accountability throughout their journey. Health is dynamic, and your plan should evolve as you do.
Our goal as an integrative dental office serving Baltimore County and surrounding Maryland communities is to provide thoughtful, personalized education that empowers you to make informed decisions about your health — beginning with the oral-systemic connection.
ORAL MICROBIOME TESTING
A Modern Approach to Dental Care
True health begins at the root. Our goal is to help you better understand the connection between your oral microbiome and your overall wellness.
The oral microbiome is a complex community of bacteria—both beneficial and harmful— that plays a critical role in both oral and systemic health. Through advanced oral microbiome testing, we evaluate the types and levels of bacteria present to identify patterns associated with tooth decay, gum disease, halitosis, inflammation, and broader systemic risks.
Once your results are available, we create a personalized strategy designed to support a healthier microbial balance and address underlying contributors to disease. We aren’t just cleaning teeth; we’re creating a preventative roadmap to support your body’s natural ability to heal.
ORAL MICROBIOME TESTING
A Modern Approach to Dental Care
True health begins at the root. Our goal is to help you better understand the connection between your oral microbiome and your overall wellness.
The oral microbiome is a complex community of bacteria—both beneficial and harmful— that plays a critical role in both oral and systemic health. Through advanced oral microbiome testing, we evaluate the types and levels of bacteria present to identify patterns associated with tooth decay, gum disease, halitosis, inflammation, and broader systemic risks.
Once your results are available, we create a personalized strategy designed to support a healthier microbial balance and address underlying contributors to disease. We aren’t just cleaning teeth; we’re creating a preventative roadmap to support your body’s natural ability to heal.
Meet OligoScan
Advanced Cellular Insight
OligoScan offers a revolutionary, non-invasive look at your health by measuring 44 essential elements, including minerals, vitamins and heavy metals, directly within your cells. Using advanced spectroscopy, the scanner provides an immediate "snapshot" of your cellular chemistry.
This technology works by identifying the unique "spectral fingerprint" of each element. Because the body often "dumps" toxins from the bloodstream into tissues to protect vital organs, traditional tests can sometimes miss chronic heavy metal loads. OligoScan bypasses this by measuring intracellular uptake, revealing hidden imbalances that may contribute to inflammation or systemic health risks.
By identifying these root-cause deficiencies and toxicities in real-time, we can move beyond symptom management. This data-driven perspective allows us to create a highly personalized, preventative roadmap, ensuring your body has the precise nutritional balance required for long-term systemic wellness.
Meet OligoScan
Advanced Cellular Insight
OligoScan offers a revolutionary, non-invasive look at your health by measuring 44 essential elements, including minerals, vitamins and heavy metals, directly within your cells. Using advanced spectroscopy, the scanner provides an immediate "snapshot" of your cellular chemistry.
This technology works by identifying the unique "spectral fingerprint" of each element. Because the body often "dumps" toxins from the bloodstream into tissues to protect vital organs, traditional tests can sometimes miss chronic heavy metal loads. OligoScan bypasses this by measuring intracellular uptake, revealing hidden imbalances that may contribute to inflammation or systemic health risks.
By identifying these root-cause deficiencies and toxicities in real-time, we can move beyond symptom management. This data-driven perspective allows us to create a highly personalized, preventative roadmap, ensuring your body has the precise nutritional balance required for long-term systemic wellness.
Meet OligoScan
Advanced Cellular Insight
OligoScan offers a revolutionary, non-invasive look at your health by measuring 44 essential elements, including minerals, vitamins and heavy metals, directly within your cells. Using advanced spectroscopy, the scanner provides an immediate "snapshot" of your cellular chemistry.
This technology works by identifying the unique "spectral fingerprint" of each element. Because the body often "dumps" toxins from the bloodstream into tissues to protect vital organs, traditional tests can sometimes miss chronic heavy metal loads. OligoScan bypasses this by measuring intracellular uptake, revealing hidden imbalances that may contribute to inflammation or systemic health risks.
By identifying these root-cause deficiencies and toxicities in real-time, we can move beyond symptom management. This data-driven perspective allows us to create a highly personalized, preventative roadmap, ensuring your body has the precise nutritional balance required for long-term systemic wellness.
Supplement Review
Personalized Guidance Based on Your Unique Data
Included in your Personalized Wellness Review, Rachel provides a comprehensive evaluation of your current supplement routine. Supplementation can be powerful when used correctly, but timing, quality, dosage, and compatibility all matter.
As a Certified Dietary Supplement Specialist, Rachel understands the complexity of nutrient interactions, including when to take certain supplements, what to pair them with for optimal absorption, and when further discussion with a primary care provider may be appropriate.
Patients are encouraged to bring a detailed list of current supplements, including brand name, dosage, frequency, and how long each product has been used. This allows us to assess what is supporting your health, what may be unnecessary, and where adjustments may improve outcomes.
Using insights gathered from your diagnostic testing resources, including oral microbiome testing and mineral analysis, Rachel develops targeted recommendations tailored to your specific needs. She also considers your medical history, current medications, and overall health goals to ensure a thoughtful and individualized plan.
Our goal is not simply to add more supplements, but to create clarity and direction to help you make informed decisions that support measurable progress in your wellness journey.
Supplement Review
Personalized Guidance Based on Your Unique Data
Included in your Personalized Wellness Review, Rachel provides a comprehensive evaluation of your current supplement routine. Supplementation can be powerful when used correctly, but timing, quality, dosage, and compatibility all matter.
As a Certified Dietary Supplement Specialist, Rachel understands the complexity of nutrient interactions, including when to take certain supplements, what to pair them with for optimal absorption, and when further discussion with a primary care provider may be appropriate.
Patients are encouraged to bring a detailed list of current supplements, including brand name, dosage, frequency, and how long each product has been used. This allows us to assess what is supporting your health, what may be unnecessary, and where adjustments may improve outcomes.
Using insights gathered from your diagnostic testing resources, including oral microbiome testing and mineral analysis, Rachel develops targeted recommendations tailored to your specific needs. She also considers your medical history, current medications, and overall health goals to ensure a thoughtful and individualized plan.
Our goal is not simply to add more supplements, but to create clarity and direction to help you make informed decisions that support measurable progress in your wellness journey.
NUTRITION GUIDANCE
Supporting Whole-Body Health Through Intentional Choices
Your mouth is the gateway to your body – what you eat has a direct influence on the oral environment, inflammation levels, digestive health, and overall systemic function. This portion of your personalized wellness visit focuses on understanding how your current nutrition patterns may be supporting or limiting your progress.
Patients are encouraged to bring a three-day food journal that includes the time, type, and approximate amount of food and beverages consumed. Reviewing these details allows us to identify patterns related to blood sugar balance, hydration, nutrient density, nitrate intake, and digestive function.
Based on your individual health concerns and the insights gathered from your food journal, Rachel provides clear, personalized recommendations designed to support improved energy, healthier gums, decreased inflammation, and stronger overall wellness. Thoughtful adjustments to timing, quality, and food combinations can often create meaningful and sustainable change.
The goal is not restriction, but awareness and direction, which empower you to make informed decisions supporting both your oral health and your overall well-being for years to come.
NUTRITION GUIDANCE
Supporting Whole-Body Health Through Intentional Choices
Your mouth is the gateway to your body – what you eat has a direct influence on the oral environment, inflammation levels, digestive health, and overall systemic function. This portion of your personalized wellness visit focuses on understanding how your current nutrition patterns may be supporting or limiting your progress.
Patients are encouraged to bring a three-day food journal that includes the time, type, and approximate amount of food and beverages consumed. Reviewing these details allows us to identify patterns related to blood sugar balance, hydration, nutrient density, nitrate intake, and digestive function.
Based on your individual health concerns and the insights gathered from your food journal, Rachel provides clear, personalized recommendations designed to support improved energy, healthier gums, decreased inflammation, and stronger overall wellness. Thoughtful adjustments to timing, quality, and food combinations can often create meaningful and sustainable change.
The goal is not restriction, but awareness and direction, which empower you to make informed decisions supporting both your oral health and your overall well-being for years to come.
YOUR INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTERED DENTISTRY
EMBRACE A HEALTHIER YOU
At Baltimore Dental Co., our vision for the future of functional dentistry is deeply rooted in an integrative health approach, where oral well-being is understood as an essential and interconnected part of your overall health. This means we're committed to providing truly personalized care that considers your unique medical history, lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels, and emotional well-being. Empowering you through knowledge is central to our philosophy, ensuring you're an active participant in your health journey and can make informed decisions. Our practice environment is designed to be a sanctuary of healing and well-being, fostering a sense of trust and genuine care.
The Dental Baltimore Co. team is dedicated to continuous learning and embracing the latest advancements in both dentistry and integrative health to provide you with the most functional and effective care possible. We're committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile and a healthier life. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference between functional dentistry. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal health.
YOUR INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTERED DENTISTRY
EMBRACE A HEALTHIER YOU
At Baltimore Dental Co., our vision for the future of functional dentistry is deeply rooted in an integrative health approach, where oral well-being is understood as an essential and interconnected part of your overall health. This means we're committed to providing truly personalized care that considers your unique medical history, lifestyle, nutrition, stress levels, and emotional well-being. Empowering you through knowledge is central to our philosophy, ensuring you're an active participant in your health journey and can make informed decisions. Our practice environment is designed to be a sanctuary of healing and well-being, fostering a sense of trust and genuine care.
The Dental Baltimore Co. team is dedicated to continuous learning and embracing the latest advancements in both dentistry and integrative health to provide you with the most functional and effective care possible.
We're committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile and a healthier life. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference between functional dentistry. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey to optimal health.
DISCOVER HOW OUR FUNCTIONAL APPROACH PRIORITIZES YOUR OVERALL WELL-BEING
When a dentistry practice embraces a “Functional Dentistry” mindset, you, the patient, experience profound benefits. We shift our focus from simply reacting to problems to understanding and addressing the root causes of your oral health concerns. This means you'll receive personalized guidance and support to proactively prevent issues, leading to better long-term oral and overall health and potentially minimizing the need for extensive future interventions. Furthermore, our commitment to creating a calming and supportive environment is designed to significantly reduce dental anxiety, ensuring your comfort is a top priority as we view you as a whole person. Ultimately, by fostering harmony between your oral and overall health, you're likely to experience a greater sense of vitality and well-being, with improvements that can extend beyond your mouth to your energy levels, sleep, and emotional state. This preventative and root-cause approach aims for sustainable health outcomes, potentially saving you time, money, and discomfort in the years to come.
DISCOVER HOW OUR FUNCTIONAL APPROACH PRIORITIZES YOUR OVERALL WELL-BEING
When a dentistry practice embraces a “Functional Dentistry” mindset, you, the patient, experience profound benefits. We shift our focus from simply reacting to problems to understanding and addressing the root causes of your oral health concerns. This means you'll receive personalized guidance and support to proactively prevent issues, leading to better long-term oral and overall health and potentially minimizing the need for extensive future interventions. Furthermore, our commitment to creating a calming and supportive environment is designed to significantly reduce dental anxiety, ensuring your comfort is a top priority as we view you as a whole person. Ultimately, by fostering harmony between your oral and overall health, you're likely to experience a greater sense of vitality and well-being, with improvements that can extend beyond your mouth to your energy levels, sleep, and emotional state. This preventative and root-cause approach aims for sustainable health outcomes, potentially saving you time, money, and discomfort in the years to come.
PREVENTION
At Baltimore Dental Co., our approach to prevention in functional dentistry is comprehensive and deeply connected to your overall health. We go beyond traditional cleanings with services like Comprehensive Examinations to thoroughly assess your oral health and identify potential risk factors. Understanding the crucial role of your oral environment, we offer Oral Microbiome Testing to gain insights into the bacterial ecosystem in your mouth and tailor preventative strategies accordingly. We also provide Nutrition Guidance to support a healthy oral environment from the inside out, recognizing the profound impact of diet on inflammation and overall oral health. Coupled with essential services like routine Oral Cancer Screenings & Diagnostic Imaging, our preventative care aims to address the root causes of potential issues, fostering oral and systemic well-being for you.
PREVENTION
At Baltimore Dental Co., our approach to prevention in functional dentistry is comprehensive and deeply connected to your overall health. We go beyond traditional cleanings with services like Comprehensive Examinations to thoroughly assess your oral health and identify potential risk factors. Understanding the crucial role of your oral environment, we offer Oral Microbiome Testing to gain insights into the bacterial ecosystem in your mouth and tailor preventative strategies accordingly. We also provide Nutrition Guidance to support a healthy oral environment from the inside out, recognizing the profound impact of diet on inflammation and overall oral health. Coupled with essential services like routine Oral Cancer Screenings & Diagnostic Imaging, our preventative care aims to address the root causes of potential issues, fostering oral and systemic well-being for you.
COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL SERVICES WITH A FUNCTIONAL PERSPECTIVE
We offer a full range of dental services, all delivered with a functional approach.
Preventive Care:
We emphasize preventive measures to maintain optimal oral health and prevent future problems.
Restorative Dentistry:
We restore damaged teeth with durable, biocompatible materials, ensuring proper function and aesthetics.
Cosmetic Dentistry:
We enhance your smile's appearance while considering the functional aspects of your bite & oral structures.
TMJ Treatment:
We provide personalized treatment plans to alleviate TMJ pain and restore proper jaw function.
COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL SERVICES WITH A FUNCTIONAL PERSPECTIVE
We offer a full range of dental services, all delivered with a functional approach.
Preventive Care:
We emphasize preventive measures to maintain optimal oral health and prevent future problems.
Restorative Dentistry:
We restore damaged teeth with durable, biocompatible materials, ensuring proper function and aesthetics.
Cosmetic Dentistry:
We enhance your smile's appearance while considering the functional aspects of your bite and oral structures.
TMJ Treatment:
We provide personalized treatment plans to alleviate TMJ pain and restore proper jaw function.
Preventive Care:
We emphasize preventive measures to maintain optimal oral health and prevent future problems.
Restorative Dentistry:
We restore damaged teeth with durable, biocompatible materials, ensuring proper function and aesthetics.
Cosmetic Dentistry:
We enhance your smile's appearance while considering the functional aspects of your bite and oral structures.
TMJ Treatment:
We provide personalized treatment plans to alleviate TMJ pain and restore proper jaw function.
