For the record, Health Canada does not currently restrict dental amalgams. As well, scientific studies have not completely verified ill effects in the general population. However, it has been widely acknowledged that amalgam fillings release small amounts of mercury, which can be absorbed by the body. For some patients, this is of concern, and should be recognized.
Also for the record, there are patients who are sensitive to amalgam. This is no different than people who are sensitive or allergic to various other chemical substances or foods or aerosols.
As such, an experienced dentist in Woodbridge will consider alternatives to amalgams, for patients who are sensitive, or whose immune system is compromised, or who suffer certain conditions.
Why Remove Amalgam Fillings?
The issue of removing amalgam fillings can be confusing. For some, it makes no sense from a health perspective. For others, it makes no sense from a cost perspective. But for those concerned about toxicity, replacing amalgam fillings might be a priority without debate. A good dentist will recognize a patient’s concerns and respect the choice to use alternative restorative materials.
Amalgam fillings are replaced with fillings that are 100% mercury free. They do not expand or contract with various temperature changes in the mouth, and results are impressive. Mercury free fillings are safe, effective, and aesthetically appealing.
Get the Care You Need from a Dentist in Woodbridge You Trust
At the Mackenzie Dental Centre, composite materials are used as an alternative to mercury. The materials are actually restorative - very natural in overall appearance and feeling just like natural teeth. And while no material is exactly like a natural tooth, these fillings come as close as possible to the original. As for bonding, composite materials also provide added strength to a tooth.
At the Mackenzie Dental Centre, our dentists serve the Vaughan, Maple, and Woodbridge communities. Contact us online to book an appointment now!
Read MoreDental emergencies are wide and varied - they could involve the teeth, the gums, even the soft tissue in and around the mouth. Whatever the case, these types of emergencies always require professional dental help, and as soon as possible. Dental distress does not always involve pain, although pain is a sure signal that something is wrong. And depending on the source of the pain, an experienced clinician can assess and identify the probable cause.
Dental emergencies take on many faces. It could be an infection of some type; it could be a chipped or broken tooth; it could be an old filling that’s fallen out; it could even be a sports injury that has damaged the teeth, gums, and mouth. Regardless of cause, dental emergencies must be treated under the supervision of a professional – it will ensure proper treatment, specific to the problem, with every effort to repair damage and preserve the teeth.
Conventional toothaches
With a conventional toothache, an immediate appointment is recommended – pain is a symptom that demands attention. Short term, the pain can be eased with over-the-counter medication.
Broken or chipped tooth
Broken (or chipped) teeth can usually be saved. Here again, an immediate appointment is well advised. The dentist will recommend if a white filling, bonding, or a crown will be required.
A knocked-out tooth
With a knocked-out tooth, it may be possible for the dentist to put it back. This must be done very quickly – a tooth that’s replaced within 10-15 minutes has a good chance of taking root again.
In general, a dental emergency will require the attention of a dental professional. For unforeseen accidents and/or emergencies, immediate care is essential - something that the Mackenzie Dental Centre can provide as a first step in emergency care.
At the Mackenzie Dental Centre, our dentists serve the Vaughan, Maple, and Woodbridge communities. Contact us online to book an appointment now!
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