Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Holistic dentistry, also known as biological or wellness dentistry, is a form of non-toxic dentistry practiced by a natural dentist. It operates on the premise that oral health is fundamentally linked to overall body health. This approach focuses on using non-toxic restorative materials for dental work and focuses on dental toxins' impact on a person's overall health. At Holliday Dental Wellness, we practice holistic dentistry, including SMART safe mercury removal, dental ozone therapy, laser dentistry, and more.

What Do Holistic Dentists Do?

Holistic dentists use a variety of alternative health practices that complement traditional dentistry. For instance, we use mercury-free dental fillings instead of traditional dental materials that may contain toxic substances. We also emphasize the importance of diet and its impact on oral health, incorporating nutritional counseling into dental care.

Holistic dentistry also incorporates methods aimed at reducing the stress and anxiety commonly linked with dental procedures. Ultimately, holistic dentists focus on more than just dental issues; we strive to enhance our patient's overall lifestyle and systemic health. 

Call Our Holistic Dentist in West Seattle Today

Our holistic dentist in West Seattle provides non-toxic dentistry care that aligns with patients' lifestyles and health goals seeking a more comprehensive approach to dental care. Ultimately, we aim to ensure your dental health supports your overall well-being through exceptional dental care. 

Please call us today to schedule your dental appointment at Holliday Dental Wellness.

We look forward to caring for your smile! 

Clear aligners offer an excellent option for straightening teeth without the hassle or embarrassment of wearing metal braces. Busy adults and teens love the discretion the clear aligners provide!

How Orthodontic Treatment with Clear Aligners Works

Step #1 The Initial Consultation

Dr. Holliday can help you determine if clear aligners are right for you during an evaluation, where she'll perform a thorough exam and take x-rays and photos of your smile. 

She will use 3-D imaging to plan your treatment and show the possibilities of what your straightened smile can look like. 

Step #2 Wearing Your Aligners

If you decide that clear aligners in West Seattle is right for you, the next step is to wear your aligners daily for at least 20 to 22 hours to achieve the best results and keep your treatment on the right track. 

You can easily remove your aligners for daily brushing and flossing, making home care simple. There are also no restrictions to your diet since aligners can be removed for meals. 

Step #3 Retainers

After you've completed your treatment with clear aligners and are enjoying your new smile, you'll wear retainers at night while you sleep to maintain tooth alignment. 

Schedule a Consultation for Clear Aligners in West Seattle

If you'd like to learn more about orthodontic treatment with clear aligners in West Seattle, contact Holliday Dental Wellness to book an evaluation with Dr. Holliday. 

While composite bonding and porcelain veneers solve some of the same problems, some distinct differences exist. 

#1 Porcelain Veneers are a Permanent Solution

Porcelain veneers require Dr. Holliday to remove a small amount of tooth enamel so the veneer fits flush with your tooth. This requirement makes them a permanent solution.

Composite bonding adds material to your tooth and doesn't require the removal of any tooth structure, so it is considered a reversible procedure. 

#2 Porcelain Veneers Take a Few Weeks to Complete

Since porcelain veneers are handcrafted in a dental lab, it takes two to three weeks to complete your new smile. We can typically complete a new smile with composite bonding in one appointment at our West Seattle dental office. 

#3 Composite Bonding Tends to Be Less Expensive

Composite veneers are one of the most affordable cosmetic dental procedures and deliver beautiful enhancements for your smile. 

What Problems Do Dental Veneers Fix?

Whether you're choosing composite or porcelain veneers, we can address these concerns:

• Broken or chipped teeth
• Gaps or spaces between teeth
• Tooth size discrepancies
• Slight tooth misalignment
• Stained or discolored teeth
• Excessively worn teeth

If you'd like to learn more about dental veneers in West Seattle, contact Holliday Dental Wellness to book an evaluation with Dr. Holliday. 

Porcelain veneers are a popular way to transform a smile, but they aren't the only option. In holistic dentistry, the goal is to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible, which is why minimally invasive procedures are preferred.

While porcelain veneers are available for those seeking a dramatic smile makeover, dental bonding, clear aligners, and teeth whitening provide effective alternatives with little to no enamel removal.

Dental Bonding: A Conservative, Affordable Solution

For patients looking for a less invasive and more budget-friendly option, dental bonding in Seattle is an excellent choice. Using a tooth-colored resin, your dentist can reshape and refine your teeth, closing small gaps, correcting chips, and masking discoloration in just one visit. Since bonding requires minimal tooth alteration, it's a great alternative to veneers for subtle enhancements.

Clear Aligners: Straightening Teeth Naturally

If misalignment or spacing is your main concern, clear aligners offer a non-invasive way to improve your smile. They're nearly invisible, removable, and allow for a more natural transformation.

Teeth Whitening: Enhancing Your Natural Smile

If discoloration is your primary concern, professional teeth whitening is a simple way to brighten your smile without altering your teeth.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Schedule a consultation today, and we'll help you find the best solution for your smile.

Cosmetic dentistry is typically considered any procedure that modifies and enhances the appearance of teeth. However, it's important to note that restorative and cosmetic dentistry often go hand in hand because when you repair or restore a tooth's function, you are also likely to enhance its appearance. 

Cosmetic Dentistry in West Seattle, WA

At Holliday Dental Wellness, Dr. Tamara Holliday uses the least invasive and most conservative procedures to restore and enhance your smile. She also uses biocompatibility testing to determine the safest materials for your unique biochemistry and needs.  

Some of the cosmetic services we offer in West Seattle are:

• Porcelain Veneers—Thin layers of porcelain that cover the front surface of your teeth to change shade, shape, and size.
• Dental Bonding—Uses tooth-colored composite resin added to the teeth to eliminate minor cosmetic flaws. 
• CandidPro—Use clear, BPA-free plastic aligners to gradually move crooked teeth into proper alignment. 

How Can I Get Started?

The first step in determining the possibilities for your smile is booking an evaluation with Dr. Holliday. She'll gather information about your teeth using photos, x-rays, and an exam and use it to create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Request an appointment at Holliday Dental Wellness online, or call our team at (206) 935-3161.

Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile, but recovery time varies depending on the procedure. At Holliday Dental Wellness in West Seattle, Dr. Tamara Holliday and our dedicated team ensure patients know what to expect so they can heal comfortably and enjoy their results as soon as possible.

For teeth whitening, there’s no real recovery time—just temporary sensitivity that fades within a day or two. Dental bonding and veneers similarly require minimal downtime. Most patients resume normal activities immediately, though some may experience mild gum sensitivity for a few days.

Clear aligners (like CandidPro®) involve gradual adjustments over a typical 12-24 month treatment period, depending on the severity of misalignment. Soreness can occur when switching to a new set, but it’s usually manageable and fades quickly.

More involved procedures, like gum contouring and dental implants, require a longer recovery. Gum contouring typically needs a couple of weeks to fully heal. Implant surgery, meanwhile, only requires up to a week for initial healing, but full integration with the jawbone via osseointegration takes several months.

Regardless of the procedure, following your dentist’s aftercare instructions will help speed up recovery and ensure the best results.

A Caring and Compassionate Cosmetic Dentist in West Seattle

If you’re looking for a top-quality dental practice in West Seattle to safely and effectively guide you through any cosmetic dentistry procedure, from initial consultation through aftercare, contact Dr. Holliday and the outstanding Holliday Dental Wellness team today to schedule a consultation!

At Holliday Dental Wellness, we understand that having a beautiful smile is just as important as having a healthy smile, and the two often go hand-in-hand!

Dr. Holliday offers several different cosmetic dental procedures to restore and enhance your smile:

• Porcelain veneers and dental crowns
• Tooth-colored composite resin fillings
• Composite bonding
• Professional teeth whitening
• Clear aligners
• Full smile rehabilitation

You may need one or a combination of procedures to help you achieve your smile goals. 

What Is a Full Smile Makeover?

Patients with multiple cosmetic or restorative issues may benefit from a full smile rehabilitation. These treatment plans are highly customized and tailored to the individual patient's unique needs.  

Dr. Holliday works closely with you to help you determine the best ways to reach your smile goals. She may recommend multiple treatment procedures, but your treatment plan can often be broken into more manageable phases for your budget and schedule. 

Take the First Step Towards Your New Smile in West Seattle

We can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted! The first step is to book an evaluation with Dr. Holliday to learn more about your options. 

You can schedule an appointment by calling your cosmetic dentist in West Seattle at (206) 935-3161 or booking your evaluation online. 

It’s impossible to determine your candidacy without a consultation in our dental office. Ideally, you should be a suitable candidate for treatment if you take good care of your teeth and see the dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleanings.

However, it’s important to note that oral health issues and time away from the dentist do not rule you out for treatment. We may need to address specific oral health issues before cosmetic dentistry, including cavity treatment.

Again, we’ll know more at your consultation, which includes an exam and a chat with the dentist!

Cosmetic Dentistry in West Seattle, WA

We offer a wide range of cosmetic treatments to transform your smile!

• Tooth-Colored Restorations — Crowns, fillings, and more
• Tooth Bonding — An inexpensive way to hide general flaws
• Clear Orthodontics — A way to straighten your teeth without braces
• Porcelain Veneers — A method of concealing everything from gummy smiles to short teeth
• Tooth Replacement — Treatments that contribute to your oral health and smile aesthetics
• Full Smile Makeovers — A way to design your dream smile

Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?

Your cosmetic dentist in West Seattle wants to help you find out. For more information about our cosmetic dentistry options or to schedule your cosmetic consultation with the dentist, call us today.

Laser dentistry treats dental or oral issues precisely through a less invasive method. It is not painful. In fact, dentists who use laser dentistry often choose it because it is far gentler than scalpel and suture surgeries and procedures.

Benefits of laser dentistry include:

• Less invasive treatment
• Faster recovery time
• Less bleeding
• More precision
• Reduced need for stitches
• Relief from sleep apnea

About Laser Dentistry in Seattle

We use laser dentistry to prepare teeth for crowning or filling. The laser gently but efficiently removes areas of decay or jagged edges, preserving more tooth structure. We also use our laser in sleep apnea treatment.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a severe sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing multiple times during the night. This can hinder life quality and put you at risk for severe complications like stroke and high blood pressure.

In some cases, the laser can be used to gently lift the palate and widen the airway to prevent nighttime obstruction.

Your West Seattle dentist will evaluate your case to determine whether laser dentistry is a suitable treatment option.

For More on Laser Dentistry Treatment, Contact Us

Would you like more information about laser dentistry? Do you suspect sleep apnea? Call us today to schedule a consultation with the dentist.

Your holistic dentist in Seattle uses ozone therapy in various capacities to treat oral health issues. It may be in oil, gas, or liquid and has strong antibacterial properties that promote healing and wound care.

In dentistry, we may use ozone therapy when treating the following:

• Periodontal treatment and prevention
• Cavity treatment and prevention
• Root canal therapy
• General infections
• Jaw or oral pain

Ozone therapy eliminates bacteria, changes pH levels, and neutralizes acidity—all of which lead to tooth decay, infections, and a host of other oral health conditions.

We take universal safety precautions when using ozone therapy in Seattle!

Why Choose Holistic Dentistry?

Holistic dentistry relies on a more natural approach to dental care. It considers the whole person and how oral health relates to overall wellness and well-being. It aims to find the root cause of conditions rather than simply treating issues as they arise. This saves patients time and money on ongoing care.

Holistic or biological dentistry also relies on the principles of safety and comfort when treating patients.

Learn More about Ozone Therapy in Seattle

To learn more or to schedule your next appointment with the dentist, contact a member of our dental team today at (206) 935-3161.

Porcelain veneers are a popular way to transform a smile, but they aren't the only option. In holistic dentistry, the goal is to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible, which is why minimally invasive procedures are preferred.

While porcelain veneers are available for those seeking a dramatic smile makeover, dental bonding, clear aligners, and teeth whitening provide effective alternatives with little to no enamel removal.

Dental Bonding: A Conservative, Affordable Solution

For patients looking for a less invasive and more budget-friendly option, dental bonding in Seattle is an excellent choice. Using a tooth-colored resin, your dentist can reshape and refine your teeth, closing small gaps, correcting chips, and masking discoloration in just one visit. Since bonding requires minimal tooth alteration, it's a great alternative to veneers for subtle enhancements.

Clear Aligners: Straightening Teeth Naturally

If misalignment or spacing is your main concern, clear aligners offer a non-invasive way to improve your smile. They're nearly invisible, removable, and allow for a more natural transformation.

Teeth Whitening: Enhancing Your Natural Smile

If discoloration is your primary concern, professional teeth whitening is a simple way to brighten your smile without altering your teeth.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Schedule a consultation today, and we'll help you find the best solution for your smile.

Dr. Holliday uses laser dentistry in several ways at our West Seattle dental practice. 

The Fotona Lightwalker

She uses the Fotona Lightwalker for tooth preparation for procedures like crowns and composite fillings. The laser allows her to comfortably remove tooth decay and prepare a tooth for its restoration while minimizing vibrations and noise that are uncomfortable for patients. The laser also preserves more of the tooth's natural structure, allowing for more conservative restorative procedures. 

The Fotona NightLase®

She uses the Fotona Nightlase to help treat snoring and sleep apnea non-invasively. Laser therapy helps to lift the palate and open the airway, which reduces snoring and improves breathing throughout the night. It can help improve sleep patterns and reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea without the need for an oral appliance or continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) therapy.

Laser Dentistry in West Seattle

The dental laser helps us to provide non-invasive treatment procedures that are more comfortable and streamlined for our patients. Dental lasers also cauterize and sterilize the treated areas, which helps to accelerate healing time and reduce discomfort during the recovery process. 

You can learn more about treatment with the dental laser by contacting our West Seattle dental office for more information. 

SMART Safe Mercury Removal offers techniques and protocols to safely remove metal amalgam fillings while also protecting our patients, dentist, and team members from harmful vapors released during the procedure.  

What Is SMART Certification?

Dr. Holliday received her SMART certification through the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). 

When metal amalgam fillings are removed, it can release mercury vapor and debris into the environment. Here are some of the SMART precautions we take when removing metal fillings:

• Using a high-speed suction or dental vacuum
• Providing proper air filtration and circulation
• Protective wear for our patients and team
• Oxygen for the patient
• Safe disposal of remaining debris or fragments

Restoration After Metal Amalgam Removal

Dr. Holliday will replace your metal fillings with a composite resin filling or porcelain crown depending on your needs. 

Composite resin is tooth-colored and bonds directly to your tooth for durability. It's ideal for replacing small fillings or areas of decay. 

We customize porcelain crowns to match your neighboring teeth and blend flawlessly with your smile. A porcelain crown completely covers a tooth that had large areas of decay that were too extensive for a dental filling to restore. 

Safe Mercury Removal in West Seattle

If you'd like to learn more about safe amalgam removal in West Seattle or other metal-free restorations for your smile, contact your West Seattle wellness dentist at (206) 935-3161.

Opalescence teeth whitening is a popular and effective solution for achieving a brighter smile. Offered by your trusted dentist in West Seattle, Opalescence provides a convenient and customizable way to whiten teeth in the comfort of your home.

How Opalescence Teeth Whitening Works

Opalescence teeth whitening in West Seattle uses a potent gel that contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active whitening agent. These agents penetrate the enamel to break down and remove stains and discoloration from the surface and deep within the tooth structure.

Custom-Fitted Trays for Optimal Results

One key benefit of Opalescence is the use of custom-fitted trays. During your visit to our West Seattle office, we’ll take impressions of your teeth to create perfectly fit trays. This ensures even distribution of the whitening gel and maximizes contact with your teeth, leading to more consistent and effective results compared to over-the-counter options.

Gradual Whitening with Flexibility

Opalescence allows for gradual whitening over days or weeks, giving you control over the process and reducing the risk of sensitivity. Depending on your preference and lifestyle, you can choose to wear the trays during the day or overnight.

Call Us for Teeth Whitening in West Seattle, WA 

Call us at (206) 935-3161 to learn how teeth whitening can help you achieve the bright, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.

Initial Consultation

During this visit, we will assess your teeth and gums to ensure you are a suitable candidate for KöR teeth whitening. We’ll discuss your whitening expectations and desired outcomes to tailor the treatment to your needs.

Custom Tray Creation

Once you’re deemed a suitable candidate, we will take digital impressions of your teeth to create customized trays. These trays are designed to fit snugly and comfortably, ensuring optimal contact with the whitening gel for even and effective results.

At-Home Preparation

KöR whitening involves an at-home conditioning phase that lasts for a couple of weeks. You will fill the trays with KöR whitening gel and wear them overnight.

In-Office Whitening Session

After completing the at-home conditioning, you will return to our office for the in-office teeth whitening session. This involves our dental team applying the KöR whitening gel to your teeth and activating it to ensure optimal whitening. This session typically lasts about one to two hours.

Post-Treatment Care

To maintain your new, bright smile, we provide you with additional KöR gel for occasional at-home maintenance. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to preserve your results.

Looking for Teeth Whitening in West Seattle, WA?

KöR teeth whitening at Holliday Dental Wellness offers a comprehensive and highly effective solution for achieving a radiant smile. If you're looking for professional teeth whitening, contact your dentist in West Seattle today to schedule your consultation.

Holistic dentistry, also known as biological or wellness dentistry, is a form of non-toxic dentistry practiced by a natural dentist. It operates on the premise that oral health is fundamentally linked to overall body health. This approach focuses on using non-toxic restorative materials for dental work and focuses on dental toxins' impact on a person's overall health. At Holliday Dental Wellness, we practice holistic dentistry, including SMART safe mercury removal, dental ozone therapy, laser dentistry, and more.

What Do Holistic Dentists Do?

Holistic dentists use a variety of alternative health practices that complement traditional dentistry. For instance, we use mercury-free dental fillings instead of traditional dental materials that may contain toxic substances. We also emphasize the importance of diet and its impact on oral health, incorporating nutritional counseling into dental care.

Holistic dentistry also incorporates methods aimed at reducing the stress and anxiety commonly linked with dental procedures. Ultimately, holistic dentists focus on more than just dental issues; we strive to enhance our patient's overall lifestyle and systemic health. 

Call Our Holistic Dentist in West Seattle Today

Our holistic dentist in West Seattle provides non-toxic dentistry care that aligns with patients' lifestyles and health goals seeking a more comprehensive approach to dental care. Ultimately, we aim to ensure your dental health supports your overall well-being through exceptional dental care. 

Please call us today to schedule your dental appointment at Holliday Dental Wellness.

We look forward to caring for your smile! 

Dr. Holliday practices wellness dentistry, which uses scientific, biological, and holistic principles to treat our patient's dental needs in the context of improving their overall health. Wellness dentistry is highly personalized and customized to each individual patient because each person has different needs, lifestyles, and health goals. 

Wellness dentistry involves using the least invasive procedures to achieve the best results. We also consider the healthiest options for completing treatment by using biocompatible materials that are safe and beneficial for each patient's unique needs. 

Specialized Services for Your Unique Needs

At Holliday Dental Wellness, Dr. Holliday and her team offer several services that you may not find at every dental practice, such as:

• Ozone therapy - Helps to prevent and treat certain dental conditions
• SMART Safe Mercury Removal - Removes metal amalgam fillings following safety procedures and protocols to protect the patient, dentist, and staff
• Airway dentistry - Offers comfortable and effective solutions for snoring and sleep apnea

These are just a few differences you'll find at Holliday Dental Wellness. We invite you to contact our West Seattle dental office to learn more about what makes us different and what we offer. You can book an appointment online or by talking with our team. 

We look forward to meeting you!