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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Mercury-Free Dentistry in Beverly Hills, FL.
Wondering what a family dentist has to offer? Read on to learn more. Sometimes the whole family needs to undergo routine dental procedures. Visiting the family dentist’s office at least two times each year may lower the risk of severe dental health issues including gum disease and tooth decay. The dental professional can provide preventive,…
Dental veneers are a popular way to transform your smile and a common cosmetic dental service offered by general dentists. These thin, shell-like porcelain or composite resin covers go directly over the front of natural teeth after a quick preparation process. Because of their ability to make teeth appear uniform in shape, size, and color…
A dental restoration is required to restore tooth structure lost due to tooth decay or injury. Dental restorations fix teeth that have been cracked, chipped, fractured or have cavities. Various restoration techniques are intended to restore various degrees of damage. This article reviews different approaches to repairing damaged teeth.There are two kinds of dental restorations:…
Dental implants are a great way to restore the appearance of your smile by replacing missing or severely damaged teeth. Many dentists recommend dental implants as a part of a full mouth reconstruction, particularly for patients who want the most long-term and natural replacement solution for missing teeth. Every patient receives a personalized full mouth reconstruction…
Visiting the family dentist’s office at least two times each year may lower the risk…
Dental veneers are a great option for a smile transformation, but first and foremost, a…
Dental restorations fix teeth that have been cracked, chipped, fractured or have cavities.
Many dentists recommend dental implants as a part of a full mouth reconstruction, particularly for…
Can a Dental Bridge Help with Teeth Alignment? — After experiencing tooth loss, patients can…
A smile makeover is a dental process that addresses multiple cosmetic concerns.
