Dentist Centurion Mercury Fillings

Mercury Fillings the Good and the Bad

Dentistry uses mercury fillings to help restore teeth that sustained damage due to cavities. Fillings consist of various materials including resins and metals and in today’s post, we will have a look at Mercury fillings, the good and bad sides. A professional dentist Centurion is able to give you the best advice that you need to know regarding fillings and how to take care of your teeth.

Why do we need fillings and what are mercury fillings?

To restore teeth damaged by tooth decay, professional dentist Centurion use fillings. Fillings are made from various materials including the following:

  • Gold
  • Composite plastic
  • Porcelain fillings
  • Amalgam (silver) filings

Dentistry uses amalgams, which consist of mercury and other metals to make a strong filling. Amalgams have a long history with some of its first records dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). The combination of metals used in amalgam fillings includes silver, mercury, tin, as well as copper. Due to its metal state, these filling are long-lasting and more affordable.

The potential dangers of Mercury fillings

Mercury fillings in dentistry have been trusted for several years, but the worry comes due to the actual mercury content within these silver fillings. Mercury is potentially hazardous because when large amounts are absorbed into the lungs it can lead to poisoning. Elemental mercury such as is used in dentistry is released in small amounts via vapour through the respiratory system. This happens through wear and tear of the filling over time.

Studies by the FDA and health institutes show that we absorb mercury on regular basis and it’s not just via amalgam that is used in dental fillings. The truth is mercury is found in water, soil produced products and even in the sea and some fish are exposed to it.

Why do some dentists Centurion take precaution with mercury?

Your dentist Centurion may also choose to take precaution against the use of mercury fillings. Dentists are cautious because some people in rare cases may have an allergic reaction to the mercury. Dentists experience mercury exposure in larger amounts when handling the mixture and components to make the fillings. Long-term exposure to mercury is poisoning to the body.

Why use mercury?

Dentistry uses mercury because of its incredible durability and ability to withstand bite-force. The exposure to mercury from a mercury filling is far less than what humans are exposed to on a daily basis.

Speak to your recommended dentist in Centurion about filling alternatives and for affordable dental care for your family.