Acupuncture is complementary care. It cannot diagnose tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an abscess, joint pathology or a medical condition. It must not be used to delay assessment of a dental or medical concern that requires clinical investigation.
Before any treatment, patients should understand the provider's credentials and regulated title, the intended goal of the session, the evidence and known limitations for that specific application, possible risks and whether dental or medical assessment should be completed first. Broad promises about balancing the body, detoxification or treating unrelated conditions are not an adequate substitute for this conversation.
If a symptom involving the face, jaw or teeth has not been clinically assessed, the safest first step is a dentist, physician or other regulated professional—not a complementary appointment.
