The Risks of Unnecessary Dental Extractions and the Importance of Holistic Care

A recent investigation by KFF Health News and CBS News has brought attention to troubling dental practices, including the unnecessary extraction of healthy, treatable teeth to profit from dental implant procedures. The report reveals that many patients seeking solutions for dental concerns were advised to undergo full-mouth extractions followed by implants—even when less invasive, tooth-preserving treatments could have been a better option.

This pattern highlights the growing trend of prioritizing profit over patient well-being in the dental industry. Experts emphasize the importance of seeking second opinions and thoroughly exploring all treatment options with trusted dental professionals before committing to irreversible procedures like extractions and implants.

Patients are encouraged to explore conservative, tooth-preserving treatments, as they tend to carry fewer risks and complications compared to surgical interventions.

Dr. Jonathan Richter, a dual-trained holistic periodontist and prosthodontist and Natural Awakenings advertising partner, underscores the value of preserving natural teeth. With advanced training from NYU College of Dentistry and the University of Pennsylvania’s Perio/Prostho Program, Dr. Richter integrates holistic methodologies into periodontics, cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry.

At Cariodontal, Dr. Richter and his experienced team create personalized, holistic wellness treatment plans that support overall health while preventing further damage to teeth. Their approach identifies issues before they become serious, focusing on safe, natural and minimally invasive treatments using non-toxic, bioidentical materials that promote optimal oral health.

Dr. Richter urges caution when consulting general dentists claiming expertise in periodontal and implant restoration. “Finding the right restoration approach requires the guidance and expertise of a specialist,” he advises.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Cariodontal at 516-282-0310 or visit Cariodontal.com. To learn more about this investigation, visit KFFHealthNews.org.