Archives for March 2012

Mercury in silver fillings

March 21, 2012 by iowasmiles

Is it true that there is mercury in silver fillings?

Cassie- Bismark

Cassie,

Yes, amalgam (or silver) fillings are made of about 50% mercury. There are varying reports on the health concerns this may raise. Some say there are no health affects, others say there are. Just go with what you are comfortable with. A great alternative to traditional fillings are white fillings (or composite fillings). They have many benefits aside from being mercury-free.

This blog is brought to you by Auburn Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.

Bump below my gums

March 21, 2012 by iowasmiles

I have a bump below my gums that looks like it has white puss in it. Is this a gum infection?

Kathy B.- Orlando, FL

Kathy,

It sounds like you have a fistula from an abscessed tooth. Sometimes people do not to realize they have an infected tooth because there can be little to no pain. If left untreated this can cause a lot of problems. You’ll need to be seen to verify you have an infection. If so, it is easily taken care of with a root canal treatment and a porcelain crown.

The blog is brought to you by Auburn family dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.