How was homeopathy discovered?
In 1796 a German doctor Samuel Hahnemann discovered a different approach to healthcare which he called homeopathy (from the Greek words “homeo = similar, pathos = suffering”)
Like Hippocrates before him he realised that there were two ways of treating ill health, the way of opposites eg “anti-biotic” and the way of similiars, ie treating “like with like”.

Homeopathy is an effective safe system of healing which has been established for over 200 years. Homeopathy assists the body to heal itself by recognising that all symptoms of ill health are expressions of disharmony or “dis-ease”. It is the whole patient who needs treatment not the disease.

Treating “like with like”
Take for example insomnia…..the conventional way of tackling sleeplessness is to give a patient sleeping tablets.The way of similiars would be to give a homeopathic dose of coffee (Coffea cruda). Coffee drunk in large amounts is well known for causing sleepless nights. Coffea may be also used in homeopathic doses for toothache.

How do we use homeopathic medicines in dentistry?
Throbbing toothache is a well known condition usually presenting itself over a weekend when the dental surgery is shut! The homeopathic form of Belladonna may be used very successfully to alleviate the problem until professional help is sought.
Homeopathy is not intended to replace the mechanical arts of modern dentistry but can be regarded as a highly useful effective complement. There is no homeopathic dental pain reliever or local anaesthetic substitute but there are a wide range of options for gum disease, dental infections, cold sores, mouth ulcers, and for reducing dental anxiety and shock. Tooth grinding habits, tartar build up and  teething are just some of the daily dental problems which may be helped with homeopathic medicines.

Homeopathic medicines prescribed by a trained health professional are safe and may be given to all ages of patient from the very young to the very old. It provides a viable alternative in pregnancy.

How do homeopathic medicines work?
They stimulate the body’s natural resources to clear the system of symptoms. The aim is to work with the immune system not to overcome it.

Can homeopathic medicines be used alongside conventional drugs?
Yes, providing there has been no sudden changes in a conventional drug prescription.
The body’s defence mechanisms have to adjust to each change on emotional and physical levels.

What does the dental homeopath need to know?
A detailed medical and dental history is necessary as well as your immediate problem. Finding out about your general energy levels, lifestyle and diet help to formulate decisions as to which homeopathic medicine may be appropriate.

What will homeopathic treatment entail?
Your dental homeopath may prescribe a medicine in the form of either pillules, or tablets, or liquids or powders, which dissolve in the mouth. Both verbal and written prescriptions will be given with instructions on how to keep your medicines.

What happens once treatment starts?
Usually patients experience a gradual improvement and well being. Sometimes there may be a slight deterioration or old symptoms reappear. This is all part of the body’s healing response. It may take minutes to hours to resolve an acute situation  whereas a slowly developing complaint may take months to years. Homeopathy works from the inside out with skin complaints being the last to clear. It is better to find and treat the cause of the problem rather than palliate or suppress the symptoms.
Every case is different and no two people are the same.

Do I tell my GP?
 An integrated approach to providing patient healthcare is to be encouraged. If there are any problems then a better result will be achieved by providing  a complementary service.

If you want to find out more about how homeopathy can help you please contact

Susan Farrer MFHom Dent BSc Hom
Dendental Practice  Den Crescent  Teignmouth
Tel:  01626 – 331 - 820

References:

Society of Homeopaths: www.homeopathy-soh-org

Faculty of Homeopathy London: www.faculty.org

British Homeopathic Dental Association www.bhda.org.uk