Mercury-free Archives | Dental Care at Flint's Crossing

Will Removing My Metal Fillings Help Prevent COVID?

November 10, 2020 by Athena Smiles

I have some health conditions and am really worried that I’ll catch COVID-19. If I do, there’s a good chance I won’t survive it. I’ve been taking as many precautions as possible, but one avenue I haven’t looked at is my oral health. I recently came across an article that said there are links between mercury-containing fillings and weak immune systems. I have a few metal fillings that I’ve probably had for going on 20 years now. I’ve never given them much thought, but if there’s any chance they could be putting me at risk, I’d like to have my mercury fillings removed. Is this something dentists are doing now?

Thanks,

Janet

Dear Janet,

You pose an interesting question. Yes, there are some links between your oral health and immune system, but they’re probably not what you think.

No Links Between Amalgam Fillings and Immune Health Have Been Proven

Rather than expecting you to take them at their word, the American Dental Association (ADA) draws on research from:

The Alzheimer’s Association
The International Journal of Dentistry
The Mayo Clinic
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National Council Against Health Fraud
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR – one of the National Institutes of Health in the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services)
The New England Journal of Medicine
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

All of these organizations stand by the belief that amalgam fillings (the metal ones which contain mercury) are safe. They further contend that there is no scientific evidence to prove otherwise.

There Are Links Between Periodontal Disease and Immune System Issues

In the early stages of gingivitis, people experience symptoms like bleeding gums and inflammation. As it progresses, the gums start to separate from the teeth, creating tiny pockets bacteria thrive in. Ultimately, the localized infections cause bone loss and eventually the loss of teeth too.

It’s this—periodontal disease—that researchers have a keen eye on these days. They initially noticed people with periodontal disease were more likely to suffer from a wide range of conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The inverse is true as well. In more recent years, they’ve discovered the link is probably inflammation.

“It is very important to consider the inflammatory / immune response as a whole, rather than many different modules working separately,” researchers say. They don’t think the inflammation is localized. They believe that, when one area of the body is impacted, others are reactive too. They believe the immune system is tied into this—that inflammation and immune disorder are linked. To that end, a healthy immune system relies on the treatment of inflammation. You must take care of your whole body and that includes good care of your teeth and gums.

You Can Still Have Your Fillings Replaced

At the end of the day, if having those amalgam fillings replaced makes you feel better, go ahead and have it done. It’ll be treated like a cosmetic treatment versus a medically necessary treatment by your insurance, but it’s a common procedure your dentist won’t bat an eye at. But, if you do go in for it, make sure you’re getting your teeth cleaned too!

This blog is sponsored by Dr. Raymond Bolt, an Auburn, Alabama mercury-free dentist.

Can Children Get White Fillings?

April 10, 2020 by writeradmin

Before all the quarantine nonsense hit we were supposed to go in for a small filling. We’re putting it off because our dental office is closed except for dental emergencies. This has given me some time to do some research and I’m coming up against conflicting opinions. I originally wanted white fillings for my son, but the dentist said they always fall out on children. I resigned myself to the fact that we’d need the silver ones. But, since being at home, I’ve read online that children can have white fillings. I’m not trying to be an internet dentist, but is it possible my dentist was wrong?

Cady

Dear Cady,

The answer to your question is a yes and no. While children can have white fillings, it is possible your dentist would not be able to provide them for them. The bonding procedure for white fillings is different than the old silver fillings.

One of the differences is the composite needs to stay completely dry when it is being placed. With some children, their wiggliness makes that a challenge. That’s not to say that something is wrong with those children. They’re supposed to be wiggly.

However, you combine a dentist inexperienced with white fillings along with a wiggly little one and you can see why he’s had trouble keeping them in on his more youthful patients.

My recommendation is you see a family dentist who is used to placing composite fillings. One way to find them is to do an internet search with the term “mercury-free dentist“. These dentists only place white fillings, so they’ll have plenty of experience with the new bonding procedures.

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

Dentist Won’t Fix Crowns Until Nerves Calm

December 14, 2019 by writeradmin

I’m in a lot of pain and need some advice. My dentist convinced me to get rid of my old amalgam fillings. However, when we removed them, two of the teeth needed crowns instead of new fillings because there was more decay. Now, the teeth with crowns are killing me. I asked my dentist to refund me but she won’t. Instead, she said she wants to see what’s going on with them. I don’t trust her and think she just talked me into the crowns without anything being wrong. I went to a new dentist to get the crowns replaced, but he said he wants to wait until the nerves calm down so he doesn’t cause more of a problem. What do I do? Did I make a mistake replacing these fillings?

Patty

Dear Patty,

First, I don’t think you made a mistake replacing your old amalgam fillings. You may not know this but the main ingredient in amalgam (silver) fillings is mercury. Many dentists and patients are uncomfortable placing or leaving a known neurotoxin in a patient’s body. Though, I will add the American Dental Association considers them safe.

Getting mercury-free composite fillings gives many patients peace of mind that they no longer have mercury in their mouths. However, you had another reason to replace at least two of these. There is growing decay underneath the fillings. If that spreads, it could easily turn into a dental emergency. Being proactive prevents that.

As for your crowns, you have three problems going on. First, you’re in pain. You don’t want to continue this way. However, your second issue is you don’t trust the dentist who did them. This is unfortunate. I haven’t heard anything which makes me think she is unethical. It could be simply a matter of the dental crowns being seated too high. If she’s willing to try and fix them at her cost, that seems trustworthy to me.

However, the dentist-patient relationship does require trust to work well. On that basis alone you would be better served with another dentist in the future. That leads me to your third problem the second dentist.

I have no idea why the “new” dentist is insisting that the nerves calm down first. That is not at all necessary. My guess is he is not comfortable with the procedure. However, it is such a standard procedure, that I’m shocked he doesn’t understand how it works.

Because of that, if you’re not willing to let your current dentist try and fix it, then you need to find a third dentist. Check their reviews before going so you don’t waste any more time.

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

Do Amalgam Fillings Cause Depression?

July 20, 2019 by writeradmin

I’ve been suffering from depression and anxiety my whole life and I’m in my mid-40s now. I have literally tried everything my counselors have suggested over the years, from various forms of clinical therapy through medication and none of it fully works. The depression and anxiety are always there lurking to some degree, plus the medications all come with side-effects I don’t care for. I recently read that amalgam fillings can cause depression and I’ve had several of them placed throughout my life, starting in childhood. If I go in and have them all replaced, what’s the likelihood that it will cure my depression? And, if I can only do a few at once, will I start to feel a difference right away or do I have to have them all done to feel better? How do I get this done?

Thanks in advance,

Rachel

Dear Rachel,

This is a great question. Let’s break it down.

Depression and Anxiety are Complex Disorders

Science hasn’t come up with a singular cause for depression and anxiety yet. To make things more challenging, a person often has multiple factors at play. For example, a few causes of depression include:

Genetics
Medications
Abuse
Conflict with family/ friends
Death or losses
Serious illness
Personal issues
Major life changes and events
Substance abuse
Low Thyroid

Furthermore, there are many types of treatment. Because our bodies are unique, each person responds differently to each situation. It sounds like you’ve been quite diligent in following through with the recommendations you’ve been given, which is huge. Kudos to you for sticking with it.

Studies Show Links Between Mental Health Issues and Mercury Fillings

One study from 1994 suggests there’s a link between amalgam fillings and depression, excessive anger, and anxiety. The same study also noted that study participants with amalgam fillings have higher amounts of mercury in their mouths when chewing gum, meaning fillings continue to release mercury over time. Researchers surmised that mercury impacts neurotransmitters in the brain, thus contributing to the symptoms of depression.

Another study from 2014 went deeper and found links between amalgam fillings and chronic illness, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and suicide. The study also referenced additional research which suggests removing amalgams can improve symptoms. As of now, amalgam fillings get the green light for safety from all government agencies, but obviously, there’s some evidence to suggest your concerns are warranted.

You Can Go Mercury-Free, But There Are No Guarantees

One thing worth noting is that the researchers bring up concerns of “mercury toxicity,” which is the presence of too much mercury. The trouble is, nobody really knows how much mercury is being released by your fillings nor how much is built up in your system. It could be that you’ve got a “normal” or “safe” amount, in which case the research doesn’t really apply. In that sense, changing out your fillings would not help. But, again, there’s no way to test. At the same time, if you are experiencing symptoms associated with toxicity, then anything you can do to get yourself down to a lower level would, in theory, provide some benefit.

The bottom line: it won’t hurt to change out your silver fillings for tooth-colored ones, and, if you’d feel better trying it, go ahead and try it. However, because there’s no guarantee the amalgam fillings are contributing to your depression, continue to visit your mental health care providers, even if you do start to swap out the fillings.

Safely Getting Mercury-free Fillings

You don’t want to just remove your silver fillings without taking some precautions. Mercury is released in the removal process. Because of that, you need to see a dentist who is experienced in sanitary amalgam removal. If your dentist isn’t familiar with this process, I’m going to suggest you do an internet search using the phrase “Mercury-free Dentist“. These dentists will be able to switch our your fillings safely.

This blog is sponsored by Auburn, AL Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.

Allergic to Her Partial Denture

July 11, 2019 by writeradmin

I’ve been sick for a couple of years. It stated not long after I got my partial denture. Then I started getting sores in my mouth and on my tongue. My dentist couldn’t figure out what was going on. Eventually, I just had my doctor run every test possible. It turns out I’m allergic to a lot of metals. Could the metal in the partial denture be what is making me sick?

Andrea

Dear Andrea,

Metal sensitivities are serious

I’m continually perplexed and frustrated by dentists who don’t understand the seriousness of metal allergies. There should be a standard question on the medical history form about metal sensitivities. Some patients can even have trouble breathing. If you’ve got a metal allergy, then yes, that partial denture is making you sick.

We are a mercury-free practice, but have had patients come in with a mouth full of mercury fillings which they suspect are making them sick.

We are careful to do a sanitary amalgam removal process. When they come in for their next appointment we ask if they’ve felt a difference. Almost always they have had an ailment that disappeared after they get rid of the silver fillings. One particular patient had her arthritis disappear. Most just felt like they felt better overall.

There are metal-free options for you to get as a tooth replacement. You don’t have to have a removable denture either. Often you can have a zirconia bridge to replace the tooth. This is completely metal free. The only downside is you will be required to crown your adjacent teeth.

If those teeth are healthy, you might be better off with a dental implant. These are made from titanium. It’s very rare for someone to have an allergy to this particular metal. Titanium is very biocompatible and has been used for decades in both hip replacements as well as implants.

However, because you’ve already been diagnosed with some metal allergies, you might want to get checked just in case. If you are allergic, there are zirconia implants as well.

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

Pain with Composite Filling

April 10, 2019 by writeradmin

I think I’ve asked my dentist to do something he wasn’t ready for. I needed a filling and really wanted a white filling. He reluctantly agreed. I will admit I pressured him. Here’s what is going on. When I clench my teeth, everything is fine. But, when I bite something crunchy I get this zing of pain. My dentist has no idea what’s going on. Have you heard of this?

Acelyn

Dear Acelyn,

This seems to be an issue with dentists inexperienced with composite fillings. For some reason, it is more common with small fillings where the filling is bonded to the dentin.

There is a solution for it, though it will mean the filling will have to be re-done. Hopefully, you have a dentist who is open to learning. Though, it does worry me that your dentist isn’t caught up on updated advancements in dental fillings.

With these fillings, it is helpful to have a glass isomer base under the filling to protect the dentist. This will keep you from feeling that zing with certain foods.

Some dentists are okay learning from patients and others are offended. If you find yours falls in the offended category, I’ll suggest you see a dentist who is well-versed in composite bonding. Do a quick internet search for a mercury-free dentist. They place white fillings exclusively and will know exactly what to do.

You May Want a New Dentist

One thing which is important with any medical profession is continuing education. You want your dentist to be up to date on the latest research as well as the new treatment options.

There have been significant developments in crown and dental implant options in recent years as well, making use of zirconia instead of metal based options. This is great for people with metal sensitivities. Again, though, if your dentist doesn’t keep up, he’ll never know.

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

Why Do Some Dentists Still Do Mercury Fillings?

January 12, 2019 by writeradmin

My sister-in-law said her children’s pediatric dentist still does silver fillings. I was stunned. I wouldn’t think ANY dentists were still using those because of their mercury content, especially a pediatric dentist. I tried to tell her to switch, but she said her children love their dentist. Why are there still some dentists using the old materials?

Kelsey

Dear Kelsey,

I’d say there are usually three reasons dentists give for still doing these:

1. The leading reason dentists are still doing silver/amalgam fillings is the American Dental Association (ADA) still says the mercury released in the silver fillings is within safe health limits. This gives them no outside impetus to change, especially if their patients aren’t concerned.

2. It’s always served them well. They’ve been doing this for years and never had any problems. Some dentists just like doing things the way they’ve always done them. Here’s the problem with that. As medical practitioners, we’re supposed to constantly be learning and improving our care. What if doctor’s in the past had that mindset? “Well, my patients have always done fine with leeches….”

3. This one is regarding pediatric dentists. It is harder to do white fillings on children than adults. This is because the composite material has to stay completely dry or the bond will not hold. Children can be wiggly and sometimes have trouble controlling where they put their tongues. Now, is that a valid excuse? Not in my opinion.

Especially, when you work with children, you have to be creative. If you have a child who absolutely cannot stay still, there are still ways to make sure they get the best treatment possible. Most children do very well with sedation dentistry.

In fact, they don’t even need a strong form of sedation like Oral Conscious Sedation. They often fall asleep just using the mild form of sedation— nitrous oxide.

Of course, it is up to your sister-in-law who treats her children. However, if she starts to think about the mercury content and comes to you for advice, tell her there are great dentists who work with children which are also mercury-free dentists. That’s what she should be looking for.

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

Dentist Said I’m Panicking Over Mercury

October 24, 2018 by writeradmin

I don’t want mercury in my mouth. I’ve been adamant with my dentist about this. He, however, insists he’s been using amalgam fillings for decades and has never had a problem. While that may be true (at least as far as he knows), I don’t want the mercury in my body. Is there any information you can give me to convince him to let me have the white fillings?

Cassie

Dear Cassie,

Truthfully, I don’t think you’ll get anywhere with this dentist. He’s one of the old-school dentists who feels because he’s always done it that way, it’s good enough. Plus, he has the American Dental Association (ADA) saying that amalgam fillings are perfectly safe, justifying his desire not to leave his comfort zone.

However, even if you could convince him, you wouldn’t want him to be the one to place your composite fillings. These require a different technique than their silver predecessor. If he doesn’t know the proper technique you’ll end up with a faulty filling.

Pressing a dentist into a procedure they don’t really know how to do will not work out well. Often, they’ll be too embarrassed to admit you’re asking for something they don’t know how to do. Instead, they’ll try to muddle through, pretending they know what they’re doing. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn’t. Depending on the procedure, the patient may not even realize the problem was the dentist’s technique (or lack thereof).

You Need a Mercury-free Dentist

If you want mercury-free fillings, which is quite reasonable, your best option is to switch to a mercury-free dentist. They will only place white, composite fillings.

Another advantage is they will know how to do a sanitary amalgam removal. I don’t know if you currently have any silver fillings, but you can’t just remove and replace them. Without using the proper procedure, you will end up inhaling mercury vapors and/or swallowing bits of mercury during the removal process. Using special procedures, you’ll be safe from those issues.

You should know if you ever have to get a filling on a visible part of your tooth, the white composite fillings can be made to blend in with your tooth color perfectly. However, once it’s made, it can’t be changed. If you want to whiten your teeth, do so before the filling is made. That way it will match the whiter color.

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

Metal Allergy but Dentist Won’t Remove Metal Fillings

August 20, 2018 by iowasmiles

As an adult, I’ve developed a metal allergy. I had some health problems and ended up being sent to an allergist. He determined my metal allergies, several of which are in my amalgam fillings. I asked my dentist to remove and replace them, but he insists it’s too dangerous. Yet, I’m pretty sure it’s more dangerous to leave in what I’m allergic too. What do I do?

Laurie

Dear Laurie,

My guess is your dentist doesn’t understand how to do a sanitary amalgam removal. If that’s the case, then yes, it would be dangerous for him to remove and replace your fillings. It’s fortunate he’s honest with you about his limitations instead of just doing what you want and putting you in danger.

I don’t know if he is unaware or just didn’t want you going elsewhere, but it is possible for you to safely get these removed with a different dentist who does know the proper procedure. With sanitary amalgam removal you’d be perfectly safe. So, how do you go about finding the right dentist?

The easiest way is to look for a mercury-free dentist. They work exclusively with white composite fillings. They should also be used to people wanting to switch out their fillings and be prepared to take the proper precautions.

Considerations When Switching to Mercury-free Fillings

While the most important consideration is what we discussed above, there is also a cosmetic issue. If you’ve ever considered getting your teeth whitened and your current fillings are visible, you’ll want to whiten your teeth before replacing them.

You’ll love the fact that your new composite fillings can be made to match your tooth color, once they’re bonded on the color cannot be changed. YOu’ll want it to match your new lovely white color.

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

White Fillings and Children

May 29, 2018 by iowasmiles

Why do some dentists allow children to get mercury-free fillings and others say they have to get amalgam? My sister-in-law’s dentist gives her children white fillings, but my dentist refuses and says they don’t last on children. Who’s right?

Mary Ellen

Dear Mary Ellen,

Can Children Get Mercury-Free Composite Fillings?

Every dentist works within their comfort level. He may not be skilled in composites and his fillings tend to fall out. Some dentists are comfortable working with children and some, while they do treat children, aren’t as comfortable. Additionally, each dentist varies in their skill level. Some do a lot of composite fillings and some don’t. There is a different technique to placing the old silver amalgam fillings to today’s composites.

With children, it gets a little trickier. With composite fillings, you have to keep the composite material completely dry while it’s being placed. While some children seem able to do that naturally, the more common bent of a child is to wiggly.

That being said, it doesn’t mean they can’t have the fillings. Like many adults, some children need sedation dentistry. That simple step allows every child to get mercury-free fillings.

Who Can Give My Child a Mercury-free Filling?

What you need is a different pediatric dentist. One who is comfortable working with composite fillings along with children. Depending on the size of your city, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding one. However, if you’re in a very small town it could be more challenging.

In that case, you should know that many general dentists enjoy treating children and are fully qualified to do so. Just check to see what age they like children to start coming to their office. If they say 8 or 9 years old, that’s a sign they’re not quite comfortable with the younger set. But, if they say 2 or 3 (or even younger), then you can know they’re comfortable around children. Of course, always check reviews.

You’ll want to find a mercury-free dentist. They only place composite fillings, so the experience needed will be there.

I hope this helps you.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Raymond Bolt. Check out his dental tips for parents.