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Archives for July 2015

Are there good alternatives to amalgam fillings?

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I really don’t want to get amalgam fillings. I’ve been told they have mercury in them and I’m just not comfortable with that. You may think I’m silly, but now that we know so much more about things like mercury and lead I can’t really believe we’re still putting them in our bodies.  My dentist feels they’re the best and they’ve been safe for years, but I’m hoping for options. I’d rather take second best and healthy.

Cameron – Miami

Cameron,

I’ve got good news for you.  You can have the best AND healthy.  There is a great alternative to amalgam fillings. Composite fillings are mercury free and a perfectly great option  for you.

In fact, while amalgam filling weaken your teeth, composit fillings can strengthen them. The bonding procedure can make your tooth stronger.

I wouldn’t press your dentist on this though. You’re better off going to a mercury free dentist who will be familiar with the composite  bonding procedure. It’s more advanced then other fillings and if not done right will cause problems.

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

My crown fell out and my dentist is out of town

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I’m not sure what to do in my situation.  My crown fell out. My dentist is out of town on vacation.  He’ll be gone for two weeks.  His message gave a number we could  all in an emergency, but I’m not sure if this qualifies.  Should I just wait until he gets back in town?

Jenny W. – San Jose

Jenny,

In your situation, I would consider it a dental emergency.  It’s not one where you have to go in this instant. You can wait until the morning, but I wouldn’t wait much longer than that.

The reason you don’t want to wait too long is that your teeth will begin to shift with that empty space in there. If they shift too much, which can happen in just a few days, your crown will no longer fit and you’ll need to have a new one re-done.

Call the number he left for you. Tell the dentist what is going on. I’m sure he’ll at the very least fit you in the next day.  If he tries to get you to wait for a few days, google an emergency dentist. One of them will fit you in quickly.

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