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The theory of acupuncture is based on the 2,500 year old premise that patterns of energy flow (Qi) exist throughout the body and play an essential role in determining health. Disruptions in this flow are believed to result in disease. Acupuncture has been used by millions of patients and performed by thousands of dentists, physicians, acupuncturists, and other practitioners for the relief of pain. Recently, the
practitioners removed acupuncture needles from the category of "experimental medical devices" and now regulates them as it does other devices, such as surgical scalpels, under good manufacturing practices and single-use standards of sterility. |
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Biological Response
Numerous studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can cause multiple biological responses. These responses can occur locally, or systemically. Acupuncture is capable of activating pathways affecting various physiological systems in the brain as well as in the periphery. A focus of attention has been the role of endogenous options in acupuncture analgesia. Studies have found that opined peptides are released during acupuncture that have an analgesic effects on the body. Stimulation by acupuncture may also activate the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland, resulting in a broad spectrum of systemic effects. Alteration in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones and changes in the regulation of blood flow have been documented. There is also evidence as to alterations in immune functions.
Acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention has been successfully practiced for many years. There have been many studies as to its potential usefulness. However, many of these studies provide equivocal results because of design, sample size, and other factors. Promising results, though, have emerged; for example, the efficacy of acupuncture in postoperative dental pain. There are other situations such as addiction, stroke rehabilitation, headache, and asthma for which acupuncture may be useful as an adjunct treatment or as an acceptable alternative.
While some acupuncturists claim that it is possible to anesthetize a tooth with acupuncture alone, it is currently not accepted by conventional dentistry and it remains as an adjunctive procedure.
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Note: It is
important to note that before beginning any course of treatment you should
see your dentist. Please note that without the benefit of a full dental
examination, including a review of medical history, dental x-rays, and
diagnostic aids, no attempt can be made to provide specific diagnosis or
recommended courses of treatment. However, we will be happy to update our
site to include topics you feel deserve mention. contact us
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