How Mercury-Free Dentistry Benefits Your Health

Do you need one or more fillings but worry about the potentially harmful effects of fillings containing mercury? Mercury-free dentistry offers an alternative. Amalgam fillings, more commonly known as silver fillings or mercury fillings, have been used as a dental restoration for filling cavities for many years. These filings are made up of about 50 percent elemental mercury, with the other 50 percent including a mix of silver, tin, and copper. While some people still make a choice to use mercury fillings to address their tooth decay, others are turning to mercury-free dentistry.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, deciding what filling material to use to treat dental decay is a choice that must be made between the patients and their dentist.

What to know about mercury fillings

Because mercury fillings slowly release low levels of mercury over a period of time, those who have mercury fillings are at risk of inhaling the mercury vapor, which is absorbed into the lungs. It is also possible for mercury to be absorbed into the body when chewing, drinking hot liquids, and grinding or clenching one’s teeth. Studies into the health effects of mercury fillings are ongoing. However, those who are allergic to metals are advised to pursue mercury-free dentistry.

How mercury-free dentistry benefits health

When a patient chooses mercury-free dentistry, they choose not to have any potentially harmful metals placed in their mouth for restoration purposes. This is especially important for dental patients who are considered sensitive or even allergic to metals. It is important for patients to understand how the dental materials they choose can affect their overall health, including their immune system. For this reason, those who have immune system problems, severe allergies, autoimmune diseases, liver problems, those who take multiple medications, and those who prefer holistic dentistry should consider mercury-free dentistry.

Safe filling choices

Safe filling choices include gold fillings, ceramic fillings, glass ionomer fillings, and composite resin fillings, also known as tooth-colored fillings. Keep in mind that while patients do have choices, these choices are impacted by the type of cavity and where it is located. For example, fillings in the back molars are more likely to call for stronger filling material than fillings in the front teeth. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best mercury-free options for you.

Would you like to learn more about mercury-free dentistry?

Now that you understand more about how mercury can potentially be harmful to your overall health, are you considering mercury-free dentistry? The sooner you address any tooth decay in your mouth, the better. Tooth decay does not go away and, instead will only continue to get worse if you do not take action now. If you would like to make a consultation appointment so you can ask one of our dental professionals about your mercury-free filling choices, we look forward to helping you.

Are you considering mercury-free dentistry in the Beverly Hills area? Get more information at https://naturecoastdentistry.com.

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