What is the mouth-body connection?

The mouth-body connection is the understanding that the oral cavity serves as an important diagnostic window into overall systemic wellness.

Do you use mercury fillings?

No. We provide mercury-free restorations and exclusively use biocompatible materials to replace silver/amalgam fillings.

What is biocompatibility testing?

Biocompatibility testing is a personalized material screening process used to ensure that dental treatments do not trigger systemic inflammation or sensitivities.

Why is biological dentistry important for my health?

Biological dentistry focuses on reducing environmental stressors that may contribute to systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Can dental work reduce my “toxic burden”?

Yes. Our biological treatments are designed to help reduce toxic burden while supporting improved overall health and wellness.

Biological Dentistry | Merrily Sandford, DDS

At Merrily Sandford, DDS & Associates, biological and holistic dentistry is more than a set of protocols. It is a clinical philosophy rooted in the understanding that your mouth is a gateway to your entire body’s wellbeing. Our Austin-based team provides care that goes beyond traditional dental services by emphasizing the connection between oral health and systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Every treatment plan is created with the goal of reducing toxic burden, supporting long-term health, and providing peace of mind for patients with sensitivities or complex medical backgrounds. By using only mercury-free, biocompatible materials and following strict safety standards, we help you achieve a healthy smile that aligns with your body’s needs. Whether you are seeking restorative work, aesthetic improvements, or support for airway and sleep health, we ensure your dental care is a positive step toward overall vitality.

Your choice of dentist matters, especially when your concerns go beyond the surface. Our practice in the Lakeway and West Austin area stands out for its commitment to advanced biological protocols and a compassion-first philosophy. Dr. Merrily Sandford’s personal journey as a cancer survivor and advocate for her child’s recovery from mercury toxicity shapes our rigorous standards for safety and empathy. We follow the SMART protocol for safe amalgam removal, use advanced technology like the Trios Scanner for comfort and precision, and perform biocompatibility testing to ensure materials support your systemic health. Our practice is insurance-friendly, making integrative, holistic dentistry accessible without compromising on quality or safety. From routine hygiene visits to cosmetic veneers and airway-focused orthodontics, every service is delivered with the utmost respect for your health priorities and wellness goals.

Beginning with your first visit, we prioritize understanding your health history, sensitivities, and goals. We offer thorough evaluations that screen for oral-systemic risk factors and use digital imaging like i-CAT 3D scans, avoiding unnecessary radiation. If you have existing amalgam fillings, our team uses the SMART protocol for safe removal, employing specialized filtration, high-volume suction, and protective barriers to reduce exposure to mercury vapor. Material compatibility testing is available for all major restorative procedures, minimizing inflammatory risks. Our airway and sleep services, including the DNA appliance and Homeoblock, support natural bone growth and improved breathing. For aesthetics, we work with an award-winning ceramist for natural, age-reversing veneers and offer clear aligners for gentle orthodontic correction. Throughout, you will experience gentle, embarrassment-free care and clear communication. Our insurance coordinators help you maximize benefits, and our protocols are always guided by your comfort and long-term wellness.

Choosing biological and holistic dental care is a proactive step for anyone seeking to reduce toxic exposure, address chronic health concerns, or simply feel confident in the safety of their dental treatments. At Merrily Sandford, DDS & Associates, we understand that many patients have delayed care out of concern for traditional methods or past experiences. Our practice is built to welcome you back with kindness, education, and a focus on the mouth-body connection. Located near Lake Travis and easily accessible from Bee Cave and Steiner Ranch, we are committed to making advanced, health-conscious dental care available without financial barriers. Let us help you regain your smile, restore your confidence, and support your overall vitality, all with the security of insurance-friendly options and a team that puts your wellness first.

What is the mouth-body connection?
The mouth-body connection is the understanding that the oral cavity serves as an important diagnostic window into overall systemic wellness.
Do you use mercury fillings?
No. We provide mercury-free restorations and exclusively use biocompatible materials to replace silver/amalgam fillings.
What is biocompatibility testing?
Biocompatibility testing is a personalized material screening process used to ensure that dental treatments do not trigger systemic inflammation or sensitivities.
Why is biological dentistry important for my health?
Biological dentistry focuses on reducing environmental stressors that may contribute to systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Can dental work reduce my “toxic burden”?
Yes. Our biological treatments are designed to help reduce toxic burden while supporting improved overall health and wellness.