Dr. David Regiani and his staff are on the cutting edge of dentistry.
Regiani has been practicing at his office in downtown Ortonville for almost 27 years, specializing in holistic dentistry and using dental materials that are less potentially harmful than some more commonly used materials.
‘What we do is gauge our practice on a medical model, trying to customize treatment to be as biologically compatible as possible,? says Regiani.
Treatment is catered to the comfort level of each client, with natural, homeopathic medications used whenever possible. Nitrous oxide remains available for those who need it.
Regiani notes that the mouth is a barometer of the body and if a patient has a dental problem, it isn’t just treated locally. Lack of certain vitamins in the body can also lead to poor dental health, which is why Regiani has vitamin C tests. A lack of this nutrient causes more plaque to form on teeth. He also tests for zinc, because low levels in the body results in bone loss for teeth support.
Regiani notes that dentists are often seen more regularly than physicians and thus can be the first to detect other problems.
‘I enjoy dentistry because there is never a day that goes by that I don’t treat a variety of problems,? Regiani says. ‘It’s challenging. I get to blend art with science.?
In his renovated offices which are outfitted with computers in all rooms, Regiani uses state-of-the-art digital x-rays to improve diagnostic capabilities and reduce radiation by half. He uses xylitol dental products to reduce cavities up to 70 percent.
Regiani hasn’t used flouride in his office in 20 years, saying it is not beneficial. He was way ahead of the Environmental Protection Agency unions that he says last year went on record asking Congress for a ban on flouridation of water. Regiani was also ahead of the curve in not using mercury for fillings. His office has been mercury-free for the last 26 years. Instead, he uses tooth-colored materials.
Invisalign, a process to straighten teeth without using metal wires or brackets, is also used by Regiani.
In 2006, Regiani plans to continue learning so he can treat patients better. He believes people are looking for dental practitioners who don’t use drug treatments alone. They will find that kind of dental practitioner in him.
‘I offer an alternative to conventional dentistry,? he says. ‘We have a unique approach.?
Regiani enjoys the community and the lack of the rat race. He plans to continue working for at least another 14-15 years and invites new patients to come see him.
‘Come and experience a high-tech, natural approach to dentistry in a country setting,? Regiani says. ‘We’re not for everyone, but we may be for you.?