Facing tooth restoration with a dental filling, one may consider obvious factors, such as cost or time away from work. Receiving a dental filling, however, also affects long-term health – both oral and systemic. Since the early years of dentistry, it has been widely believed that amalgam, or silver, fillings were ideal for the repair of teeth damaged by cavities. In those early days, standard fillings were not called mercury fillings, although this toxic substance is an integral part of amalgam filling material. Today, a growing number of dentists are listening to research findings and eliminating the use of amalgam fillings within their practices. Dr. Evans, as your biological mercury free dentist in the Williamsburg area, offers various other materials for your ultimate health.

Amalgam fillings, because of their mercury content, are being questioned for dental restorations. Mercury has greater toxicity than any other heavy metal, and is more dangerous than arsenic or lead. The World Health Organization states that no level of mercury exposure should be considered safe. In response to several studies, companies have removed mercury from everyday items such as thermometers and vaccines. However, this toxic substance remains in dental fillings.

The argument for amalgam fillings has been that this material is extremely durable and ideal for the ongoing pressure sustained in chewing. Judging by the number of adults who are forced into further dental work due to fractures from fillings, we would beg to differ. The metal alloy mix of amalgam fillings expands and contracts to such a degree that, over time, the tooth is actually further damaged. This rate of expansion and contraction also makes room for bacteria to enter the tooth beneath the filling.

In contrast to constant mercury exposure through amalgam fillings, there are healthier, stronger options used in our dental practice. Our mercury free fillings properly restore teeth, while sustaining general health for your lifetime. Using ceramic, porcelain, or composite material, your teeth can be repaired in a way that is both healthy and aesthetically pleasing.

What goes into your mouth affects your health. This extends beyond what you eat, and directly to the materials used in dental work. Contact Evans Dental Care to experience the benefits of biological dentistry.