Lately, there have been many
debates about the mercury contained in amalgam (silver) fillings that
many dentists still use to restore their patient’s teeth. Those calling
for the ban of amalgams claim diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis,
Alzheimer’s, Lupus and many other autoimmune and neurological disorders
are either directly caused by or initiated by the presence and
subsequent leaking of mercury from these fillings. Those supporting the
use of these fillings say that they have been used for 100 years with
out a direct link to these diseases. Many European countries have passed
laws making it illegal to use mercury-containing fillings because of the
effect that mercury can have on both people and the environment; Canada
recently banned the use of these fillings in pregnant women and
children.
While the debate rages about the
mercury scare, our office has decided it is a moot point.
We choose not to use these types of
fillings in our practice because there are better solutions. The absence
or presence of mercury was not the most significant factor in our
decision to use other materials to restore teeth that have cavities. The
fact that fillings containing mercury look terrible was of little
consequence when considering our options. More important is the fact
that these amalgam fillings cause teeth to fracture, leading to root
canals, crowns and lost teeth. The most critical thing we look at when
choosing a material for repairing and restoring broken or decayed teeth
was simply, what material will make the remaining tooth last the
longest?
With the latest advances in
composite and porcelain materials, we can provide the best of all three
of the following factors: we have found we can eliminate the mercury
problems, make restorations that disappear in the tooth (making it look
like a perfect tooth once again), and strengthen the to near its
original strength. In one fell swoop, we have found a healthy way to
restore teeth to ideal strength and appearance.
So your question now is….. Why isn’t
every dentist doing these type of restorations?
These newer restorations are
technically more difficult to perform than the amalgam (silver)
fillings. While there is significant room for error with the amalgam
fillings, the bonded composite fillings require special techniques that
are more difficult to master. When done correctly, the tooth is held
together (bonded), thus greatly reducing the chance of fractures, root
canals and crowns in the future.
On a final note, because many dentists still prefer
to provide the cheaper, less timely amalgams, many insurance companies
are able to debate and even change the dental codes when white fillings
are submitted (without the patient ever realizing what has been done by
their insurance carrier). This too is gradually changing and it will not
be much longer that these same insurance companies will not be allowed
to govern what materials a person can use to make his/her smile the best
and longest-lasting.
Please do not hesitate to call our office if you have
any other questions I may not have answered for you concerning this
subject.
