Dr. Engram grew up in Hillsboro, Texas, where she met her future husband, and graduated second in her high school class. She attended Texas Christian University, and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. She earned her doctorate degree at Baylor College of Dentistry.After her own personal health struggles with an autoimmune disease, Dr. Engram shifted her practice philosophy to focus on whole-body health, and the prevention and safer treatment of oral disease.As a general dentist focused on holistic and biological dentistry, Dr. Engram is a member of AAOSH (the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health), HDA (Holistic Dental Association), IAOMT (International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology), and the IABDM (International Academy for Biological Dentistry and Medicine). She is SMART certified in safe amalgam removal technique, and accredited through the IAOMT. She is also a certified Integrative Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Locally, Dr. Engram is a supporting member of the Dallas Holistic Chamber.Dr. Engram and her husband, Bryan, have two elementary-age daughters. Bryan is CEO of Brazen Animation in Dallas. Her daughter, Kate, is a talented budding artist, and her youngest, Grace, is a spitfire who will be in charge of something or someone, in whatever path she chooses.
Its in the name! The key belief of holistic dentistry is that your overall (holistic) health is tied very closely to your oral health. This means that holistic dentists focus on treatments that are biocompatible (non-toxic), and often work together with other healthcare professionals to ensure that your overall health is protected. The goal of holistic dentistry is to support and improve the bodys natural abilities to self-heal and regenerate.
One of the biggest differences between the two is that holistic dentists never use mercury-amalgam fillings. Mercury is a toxic metal, and with the rise of safer materials like glass ionomer cement (GIC) and dental composite, there is no need to use it for dental fillings.Another big difference is that while traditional dentistry focuses on treating dental problems in the mouth, holistic dentistry focuses on treating their underlying causes.For example, while a traditional dentist may simply clean your gums to help prevent gum disease, a holistic dentist may discuss changes you can make to your diet or lifestyle that can help you lower your risk of gum disease. Theyll also work with other health professionals who can help you make these changes.
Holistic dentistry is just as technologically advanced as traditional dentistry, if not more so. Thats why we offer laser treatment at our office. Dental lasers can be used to remove decayed enamel, treat gum disease, and so much more, without the pain, invasiveness, and discomfort of traditional dental tools.