AMALGAM FILLINGS

ARE  DENTISTS  POISONING  YOU?

Recently there have been a number of well intentioned articles in the various media, suggesting that silver amalgam may not be the safe material that we have assumed for so many years. 

As is the case with so many media health articles, only part of the story has been told.

Firstly, it is correct that a minute amount of mercury can be released from an amalgam filling when exposed to extreme pressure,what was not mentioned was that this amount is far below the amounts ingested in a normal
healthy diet.  Furthermore, the establishment view is that there have been no scientifically substantiated reports of detrimental health as a result of silver 
amalgam usage.  This has been investigated and researched by such major bodies as the World Health Organization and the American Dental Association.

We are taking the approach that amalgam is acceptably safe for the patient. However you may be interested to know that the mixing and placement of amalgam fillings exposes the dentist and his staff high levels of mercury contamination. 
Studies have shown no differerence between the health of dental staff and 
the general population.
Where an amalgam restoration has deteriorated we replace it with a bonded composite/glass ionomer restoration.  We do feel that where a restoration in a posterior tooth is likely to show, when speaking or smiling, then a tooth 
coloured composite resin filling is really worthwhile, they do look great. 
(see article on tooth bonding)

GUM RECESSION

This is when the gum moves away from the crown of the tooth, exposing the sensitive root surface underneath.
Teeth can become very sensitive, reacting to hot and cold temperatures. 
This process is accelerated by incorrect tooth brushing.  
This is usually by being too vigorous with your brushing or using a hard toothbrush and/or brushing sideways across the gumline.

This type of toothbrushing wears away the enamel and causes a wedge shaped defect.  If the defect is deep it can become painful and very unsightly as well as being susceptible to decay.

There is now a new material that bonds directly to the tooth surface: glass ionomer.  As long as decay has not set in, then no drilling or anaesthetic is needed.
Glass ionomers are a completely painless and aesthetically pleasing filling material.  We have this material available and carry out the procedure regularly.