BIOLOGICAL DENTIST IN HOUSTON, TX DESCRIBES THE PURPOSE OF AMALGAM FILLINGS REMOVAL

Patients in the Houston, TX area who are seeking a biological dentist who can provide quality care and attention for their smiles are welcome to schedule a visit with Dr. Marilyn Jones of Houston Biological Dentist. The purpose of her practice is to provide comprehensive dental care with a biological approach, ensuring patients have access to the best possible care and the materials and treatments that are most appropriate for their bodies. With this comes specialized treatment options such as the replacement of silver amalgam fillings, which expand and cause fractures in teeth.

Understanding the dangers of silver amalgam fillings

Silver amalgam fillings are used to treat areas of decay that develop on the teeth. Tooth decay otherwise referred to as cavities, is the forming of a hole in the enamel of the teeth that can be caused by poor oral hygiene. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar can develop on the teeth when patients do not properly brush and floss and can be problematic in that it can contribute to decay and even periodontal disease. Decay, if left untreated, can become deep and result in the infection of the dental pulp inside of the tooth. This decay can become larger and may make the patient experience sensitivity and pain.

In the past, and in some practices still today, dentists used a material called silver amalgam to fill cavities to stop the decay process and restore the tooth. However, this material is harmful to the smile. It is developed with approximately 50 percent mercury, which is a problematic and toxic material to the human body. Mercury, when heated, can release vapor into the human body that can contribute to a variety of medical conditions. These filings are easily heated with the friction of chewing and with the consumption of warm beverages and food. Some patients have mercury toxicity and don’t even realize it. The American Dental Association says these fillings with 50 percent mercury are safe. You can go to their website to read their viewpoint.

How can mercury fillings be replaced?

At Houston Biological Dentist, patients can enjoy the safe protective protocol followed during removal and replacement of their silver amalgam fillings. First, the removal process is done in line with IAOMT protocol, which ensures that patients and staff are not exposed to toxins during the procedure. Silver amalgam fillings are removed in large pieces to avoid disrupting the material and is done with specialized filtration systems in the rooms and coverage of patients and professionals. Once the mercury fillings have been removed, Dr. Marilyn Jones then replaces these fillings with ceramic inlays & onlays. This is a much safer material to use in the smile.

Ceramic Inlays & Onlays:

• Do not expand and contract with temperature changes, eliminating the chance of bacteria entering the area of decay.
• Are more aesthetic as they are colored the same as natural tooth enamel, ensuring seamless integration into the smile.
• Are biocompatible with the smile and eliminates the chance of mercury toxicity from the fillings or other restorations.
• Our long-lasting, ensuring restoration of the smile for many years.
• Are affordable and are a wise investment for patients who are serious about ensuring all treatments in the smile are biocompatible with the mouth and body.
• Are done in two appointments Both safe mercury filling removal and replacement of these restorations are available with Dr.Marilyn Jones of Houston Biological Dentist.

What is the purpose of amalgam fillings removal?

The purpose of removing and replacing these silver amalgam fillings is to bring the smile back to health and reduce the metal in the mouth showing when you smile. Some patients may also enjoy the added benefit of a more aesthetically pleasing restoration such as ceramic, which is tooth-colored and far less noticeable within the smile.

Interested in learning more about biological dentistry?

Contact Dr. Marilyn Jones and the team of professionals at Houston Biological Dentist to discuss the needs of your smile and overall health and learn how a biological dentist can address certain concerns. Her practice is located at 800 Bering Drive, Suite 204, and can be reached by phone to reserve an appointment at (713) 785-7767. Call today and start taking charge of your oral health and wellness!