Whether we visit a dentist for a major denture implant or to replace a filling, we seek an experienced professional who knows their job. A professional dentist always considers it important to inform you about the pros and cons of your dental treatment. In recent years, many dentists have raised their concerns about the safety of dental procedures. In particular, they express concern about mercury free dentistry.
Why are mercury dental procedures harmful?
A dental filling is a common dental procedure in which the dentist uses an adequate amount of mercury. It is a combination of metals that dentists use to fill tooth cavities. Dentists also use mercury to treat tooth decay.
Many dentists consider amalgam fillings harmful due to the presence of mercury in them. According to a study, amalgam filling contains at least 50 percent of mercury because of its blending ability (https://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/productsandmedicalprocedures/dentalproducts/dentalamalgam/ucm171094.htm). Mercury makes the filling more pliable to make it strong enough to bite and chew.
Although the use of mercury in the amalgam fillings is not new, some recent studies have shown toxic effects of mercury. The presence of mercury in the soil, water and air makes it a common thing we consume in numerous ways. However, some dentists believe that mercury is a neurotoxin and can pose life-threatening effects on human health.
Depending on the amount of intake or several other individual factors, mercury filling can cause:
- Behavioral changes
- Muscular weakness
- Loss of vision
- Distortion in nerve responses
Furthermore, excessive consumption can cause respiratory and kidney failure. As such, you and your dentist both should opt for mercury free dentistry.
Benefits of a mercury free dental procedure
Mercury free dentistry is less invasive
Choosing mercury free dentistry is safer than selecting dental procedures that involve the use of mercury. Mercury free fillings or dental procedures are not invasive and do not damage tooth structure and tissues.
Mercury free fillings last longer
Many researchers have proven mercury free fillings as an easy-to-clean treatment. This is the reason they last longer than mercury fillings.
Mercury free procedures are effective
They are effective because they prevent cavities, unlike mercury, which itself is a neurotoxin. Dentists practice mercury free dentistry as a preventative measure to minimize the risk of detrimental diseases.
Mercury free procedures are safer
Many studies have linked mercury with mouth allergies and other symptoms of cognitive disorders. That is why many dentists use mercury free dental procedures for better results. Using them doubles the chances of healing, and they are safe for the environment.
What is the bottom line?
Overall, the use of mercury in various dental procedures such as dental fillings can jeopardize your overall health. Although the FDA has not found any life-threatening qualities of mercury, dentists using it in dental procedures need to adhere to the safety guidelines regarding its disposal and handling. Otherwise, choosing mercury free dentistry is the best option to reduce the risk associated with using mercury in dental procedures.
Call (573) 346-7278 today to reach Lake Dental Clinic.
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