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| Are "Mercury Fillings" Safe? | | | There is much controversy concerning silver amalgam dental restorations, or "mercury fillings" as they are commonly called. It is a well-known fact that mercury is a hazardous heavy metal, however when combined with the silver alloy used in fillings, it becomes inert. An analogy would be to consider concrete. The various elements used to make concrete; sand, gravel, water, cement powder, are all free to dissipate if left alone. When mixed together they form a solid, cohesive mass which is insoluble. Likewise, when placed, silver amalgam immediately begins a multistage chemical reaction over the course of several hours, resulting in an inert compound. Thereafter the mercury can only be liberated with intense heat, such as a forge or crucible. Consider, for example, the element chlorine, which is a deadly gas, yet it exists as a compound in the form of common table salt. |
What is Pyorrhea?
Pyorrhea is a lay term for periodontal disease, or the deterioration of the gums and bone which support the teeth. This condition is very prevalent in our population, affecting a majority of people of middle age or older. This condition, which is not contagious, progresses slowly over the years until the teeth loosen, and the person affected begins to suffer repeated gum infections.
How do we get cavities?
The mechanism by which tooth decay occurs in the mouth is a mystery to much of the general public. Note that dental caries is the most prevalent disease affecting the population of the United States. We all need to be informed about the nature of this devastating condition, which fortunately, is preventable.
“Why Should I Floss My Teeth?”
Most people acknowledge that they should brush their teeth at least once a day, but few individuals ever use dental floss regularly. Failure to do so results in a high incidence of tooth decay even among those who brush regularly. This is particularly true of teenagers who typically consume vast quantities of what we in the profession call “contraband” (i.e. sugar containing foods and beverages).
The Phantom Toothache
People frequently present to the dentist complaining of pain or hypersensitivity in their upper back teeth. This may be due to a variety of causes - decay, fractures, gum infections, etc. Occasionally the dentist cannot place the blame on any of these factors, and the teeth may appear normal both visually and on x-rays. The situation can be a diagnostic dilemma for the doctor and the patient. The patient needs relief, yet the dentist would be reluctant to initiate an irreversible procedure (i.e., root canal or extraction) without convincing evidence that a particular tooth is at fault.
Dental Complications
Most people do not realize the degree of complications which can arise from dental pathology. In extreme cases, infections resulting from tooth decay or gum disease can end up in a life-threatening situation. Infections of gum tissues surrounding wisdom teeth, and abcesses secondary to traumatic injuries have the same potential. Although these cases are rare, it is very commonplace for people to suffer much pain, inconvenience, and financial impact from neglected dental problems.
How Can I Whiten My Teeth?
Many people are unsatisfied with the color or brightness of their teeth. In recent years bleaching of teeth has become quite popular, with much emphasis placed on smile appearance through the advertising media.
The Phantom Toothache
People frequently present to the dentist complaining of pain or hypersensitivity in their upper back teeth. This may be due to a variety of causes - decay, fractures, gum infections, etc. Occasionally the dentist cannot place the blame on any of these factors, and the teeth may appear normal both visually and on x-rays. The situation can be a diagnostic dilemma for the doctor and the patient. The patient needs relief, yet the dentist would be reluctant to initiate an irreversible procedure (i.e., root canal or extraction) without convincing evidence that a particular tooth is at fault.
How Can I Improve My Smile?
Many people are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. This creates somewhat of a social handicap, resulting in embarrassment and loss of self-esteem. But, with today’s modern dental technology there is no need to suffer with this problem.
The Benefits of Fluoride
It is not well understood by the general population how fluoride affects the teeth. This naturally occurring element has a beneficial effect on teeth via several modes of operation. To appreciate this we must understand that tooth enamel is a crystalline structure composed of various elements, primarily calcium. There are voids in the molecules which can accept any available fluoride ions, and in so doing strengthen the enamel structure. In a young child, if fluoride is present in the water supply or in a vitamin supplement, it becomes incorporated into the developing enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to decay. Fluoride mineral supplements are available by prescription from the dentist through your local pharmacy. They can be administered from birth until all the permanent teeth have erupted. There are regions in the continental United States and elsewhere in the world where fluoride is present in the well water, and inhabitants of these areas have a significantly reduced incidence of tooth decay.
How Can I Whiten My Teeth?
Many people are unsatisfied with the color or brightness of their teeth. In recent years bleaching of teeth has become quite popular, with much emphasis placed on smile appearance through the advertising media.
The Phantom Tootache
People frequently present to the dentist complaining of pain or hypersensitivity in their upper back teeth. This may be due to a variety of causes - decay, fractures, gum infections, etc. Occasionally the dentist cannot place the blame on any of these factors, and the teeth may appear normal both visually and on x-rays. The situation can be a diagnostic dilemma for the doctor and the patient. The patient needs relief, yet the dentist would be reluctant to initiate an irreversible procedure (i.e., root canal or extraction) without convincing evidence that a particular tooth is at fault.
How Do I Know Whether My Child Needs Braces?
Not all malocclusions are obvious to the casual observer. A child’s teeth may appear normal to the parent, but discrepencies may still exist in their occlusion (bite). Only a trained professional can detect these often subtle problems, and treat or refer the patient to a specialist.
Why is Dentistry so Expensive?
There is no doubt that one of the deterrents to a visit to the dentist is the cost of treatment. This also applies to medical treatment as well as other health care providers. How can we justify the cost of these procedures?
How Do I Know Whether My Child Needs Braces?
Not all malocclusions are obvious to the casual observer. A child's teeth may appear normal to the parent, but discrepencies may still exist in their occlusion (bit). Only a trained professional can detect these often subtle problems, and treat or refer the patient to a specialist.
“Why Should I Floss My Teeth?”
Most people acknowledge that they should brush their teeth at least once a day, but few individuals ever use dental floss regularly. Failure to do so results in a high incidence of tooth decay even among those who brush regularly. This is particularly true of teenagers who typically consume vast quantities of what we in the profession call “contraband” (i.e. sugar containing foods and beverages).
“Why Should I Floss My Teeth?”
Most people acknowledge that they should brush their teeth at least once a day, but few individuals ever use dental floss regularly. Failure to do so results in a high incidence of tooth decay even among those who brush regularly. This is particularly true of teenagers who typically consume vast quantities of what we in the profession call “contraband” (i.e. sugar containing foods and beverages).
“Regular Checkups Make Good Sense”
Most people would not think of never servicing their automobile until it dies on the road, yet many people take this approach concerning their teeth. Your teeth, like your car, need routine service at regular intervals to prevent problems and insuring trouble free performance.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a surgically implanted device. It replaces the lost roots of a tooth to which an artificial tooth, partial denture, or denture can be attached.
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