Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Healthy alternatives in dental materials

There are numerous types of materials being used in dentistry today and some are more non-reactive in the body than others. Many people are sensitive/allergic to metallic restorative materials such as the dental amalgam. The dental amalgam contains mercury and other metals that may be toxic to the body. People who have amalgams replaced by other materials such as porcelain or composite resin actually report that they feel healthier than before. Dental amalgams are still considered safe in the US although are being used less and less. In some European countries, they are seldom or no longer placed. Personally, I have not used any amalgam for a decade or so and I find that the alternatives are not only safer but also better from a restorative point of view.