3 Health Benefits of Mercury-Free Dentistry

Mercury-free dentistry is a safer alternative to traditional ways of dealing with cavities. Tooth decay is an inevitable part of life. Most people will develop one or more cavities at some point in their lives. The standard way dentists treat cavities is by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling up the hole with a material that is appropriately called a "filling."

The most common type of filling used within the past hundred years has been silver amalgam fillings. These types of fillings are made from silver, mercury and a few metal alloys.

The problem is: Mercury is now known to be toxic to humans. It is the primary reason why doctors often tell pregnant women to avoid eating fish and other seafood since they have high mercury content. When a person gets silver amalgam fillings, trace amounts of this poisonous substance can make their way into the person's bloodstream leading to health issues.

Thanks to mercury-free dentistry, patients can now have their teeth restored without exposing themselves to any toxic materials.

Benefits of getting a mercury-free dentistry

Traditional fillings do not just contain mercury which is toxic, they are also easy to spot when a person who has them opens their mouth. Silver amalgam fillings have a greyish, dark color and they make teeth that have been restored with them look rotten.

1. Natural appearance

Mercury-free restorations like composite resins blend in with the wearer's teeth. They are pretty much impossible to notice.

2. Durable and affordable

Fillings that do not contain mercury can be quite durable. They also do not cost much more than traditional fillings do. Given the fact they provide more benefits, they are the more economical option.

3. Better for good health

When a person has a restoration that does not contain mercury, they enjoy better overall health. There is no need to worry about mercury making its way into their bloodstream and their cavities have still been fixed.

Popular mercury free restorations

Composite resins

Composite resins are arguably the most commonly used restoration that does not contain mercury. It an inexpensive procedure that can be used to address cavities, severe stains and deformities on a tooth. The procedure involves the use of a putty-like resin to restore a tooth's look and function.

The tooth is prepared with an etching solution then the composite is applied to it. It is molded as desired and hardened with ultraviolet light. Composites can last a few years with good oral hygiene and they can be easily topped up in the future.

Crowns

There are many materials crowns can be made from that are mercury free. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramics, composites and many other non-metallic materials and metals that do not contain mercury. Crowns are used to protect severely damaged teeth and improve the way they look.

Quality treatment helps

Why get a treatment that infuses toxic materials into your body when they are a mercury-free alternative? Give us a call if you are interested in safe dental restorations.

Request an appointment here: https://www.gablesexceptionaldentistry.com or call Gables Exceptional Dentistry at (305) 203-4132 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.

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