When you think of general dentistry, filling cavities probably comes to mind. If you have tooth decay, your dentist will remove it and fill up the space with strong material to protect the tooth from further damage. Today, many dentists and patients prefer colored fillings made of composite resin or porcelain. If you have a silver or mercury amalgam filling, you should consider removing it.
For many years, silver and mercury amalgam fillings were the standard in general dentistry to repair cavities. More recently, however, dentists and researchers have discovered possible health risks with these materials. Contact with mercury, in particular, may contribute to memory loss, mood disorders, headaches and muscle weakness. Some fillings consist of 50% mercury in addition to other metals. For peace of mind, many patients prefer to remove old amalgam fillings. Also, these fillings stand out, so some patients would rather have tooth-colored fillings that other people would not notice.
When people decide it is time to get rid of old metal fillings, they will meet with the dentist to discuss the next steps. Because of the health risks that mercury poses, the dentist and staff will wear protective gear during the filling removal process. This gear includes a mask, gown and gloves. The patient also wears protection. It is important that the person in the chair has eye protection, facial protection and a full-body gown. The dentist will also place a rubber dam in the patient’s mouth, over the teeth.
It is important that any general dentistry practice has the right equipment and materials to properly remove the amalgam. In addition to taking precautions with gear, the staff should have ventilation and filtration. There should also be a way to collect the mercury waste. The dentist uses extreme care and caution to remove the amalgam. Using dental tools, the dentist will then pull out the filling.
With the old filling gone, it is important for the general dentistry staff to restore the tooth and put in new fillings. The dentist will likely use a ceramic filling to blend in with the tooth’s color. After finishing the new filling, the dentist will ask the patient to bite down to see if any adjustments need to be made. Some dentists may prefer to put a crown over the tooth if the damage is more significant. The patient should be able to eat normally within a few hours.
There is legitimate concern over having metal fillings in your mouth. If you would like to feel at ease knowing you do not have mercury exposure, visit your dentist today. Part of general dentistry includes dealing with restorative care. Your dentist should be able to take out these older fillings and replace them with tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain options. Rest assured that when you undergo this work that the dentist will take every precaution necessary to protect you from harm and ill effects. Make an appointment today to take out amalgam fillings.
Request an appointment here: https://dragonflydentalportcharlotte.com or call Dragonfly Dental of Port Charlotte at (941) 676-9225 for an appointment in our Port Charlotte office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Google reviews.
It takes consistent care to maintain healthy teeth. Regular visits with a family dentist can prevent cavities and gum disease. These appointments can also identify issues in their early stages and promote lifelong wellness for people of all ages.Cavities often begin as small areas of decay. When left untreated, they can develop into large cavities…
A family dentist plays a key role in helping individuals of all ages maintain strong, healthy smiles. Routine visits, preventive care, and personalized guidance all contribute to maintaining long-term oral health. While regular dental appointments are important, consistent habits at home also make a significant difference. These five oral health tips from a family dentist…
A family dentist is essential in maintaining and improving the oral health of patients at all stages of life. One of the critical services a family dentist provides is replacing missing teeth. Whether due to injury, decay, or other factors, missing teeth can significantly impact both the function and appearance of a smile. Fortunately, these…
Partnering with a family dentist early in life supports your child's long-term smile health by promoting comfort, trust, and proactive care. These foundational experiences can also make for better self-esteem and reduced fear of dental treatment. From baby teeth to the teen years and beyond, a family dentist can support children throughout their oral development.Early…