General Dentistry Services

General Dentistry FAQs: Amalgam Removal

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.

Why people remove amalgam fillings

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.

Precautions

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.

General dentistry and removal process

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.

After the procedure

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.

End your worries

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.

Related Posts

5 Common Misconceptions About Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that general dentists perform on a regular basis. Although it is a routine and safe method, there are common misconceptions about it that cause unnecessary anxiety and fear. It is normal to feel a little nervous before any medical procedure, but it is equally important not to let…

When Your Dentist May Recommend A Tooth Extraction

Your dentist can suggest a tooth extraction. A thorough assessment can help determine if you need this procedure. The facts can help prepare you for your oral surgery. Here are the details on when a tooth extraction may be necessary.Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures that surround the teeth. Studies show that the…

Tooth Extraction: A Solution For Dental Pain

When people hear the word tooth extraction, they often think of the potential discomfort it may cause. However, a key goal of tooth extraction is quite the opposite. Here is a closer look at tooth extraction and how it helps reduce dental pain.A dentist does not recommend a tooth extraction unless it is necessary. Their…

Clear Braces: A Discreet Way To Straighten Your Smile

Advancements in orthodontics make it possible to achieve a straighter smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces. Clear braces provide an option that blends in with natural teeth, offering a more subtle approach to orthodontic treatment. Their translucent or tooth-colored materials allow individuals to correct alignment issues while maintaining a simple aesthetic.Clear braces…

Dr. Matthew Navidomskis

Share
Published by
Dr. Matthew Navidomskis

Recent Posts

5 Common Misconceptions About Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that general dentists perform on a regular basis.…

2 days ago

When Your Dentist May Recommend a Tooth Extraction

Your dentist can suggest a tooth extraction. A thorough assessment can help determine if you…

4 days ago

Tooth Extraction: A Solution for Dental Pain

When people hear the word tooth extraction, they often think of the potential discomfort it…

1 week ago

Clear Braces: A Discreet Way to Straighten Your Smile

One of the biggest advantages of clear braces is their discreet appearance.

2 weeks ago

Are Teeth Bleaching and Whitening the Same?

Deciding between dental bleaching and whitening can be tough if you do not know if…

2 weeks ago

How To Prevent Complications After a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures in dentistry. This article discusses extraction…

2 weeks ago