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Are silver fillings, fluoride or x-rays, a danger to my health? What are the alternatives?
Dental amalgam, or silver filling material, is a mixture of mercury, and a silver, tin, and copper alloy. The release of mercury in silver fillings is small and considered safe for 99% of patients, however the disposal of this material is controversial. Amalgam that has been removed from a tooth or not used during a procedure must be placed in a safe container and sent to a refiner. It cannot be discarded in the trash because of laws governing mercury contamination. For this reason, Dr. Glinski does not place silver fillings. Gold, porcelain, and composite materials have been found to be suitable replacements for silver fillings. Dr. Glinski, however, will not replace a silver filling unless the patient requests it, if that filling is clinically and cosmetically acceptable.
Fluoride is a compound of the element fluorine, which is found universally throughout nature in water, soil, air and in most foods. Fluoride is absorbed easily into the tooth enamel, especially in children's growing teeth. Once teeth are developed, fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before the damage is visible. Our office recommends both child and adult fluoride treatments when applicable.
Radiographs, or x-rays, help your dentist determine the presence or degree of periodontal disease, abscesses, and many abnormal growths such as cysts and tumors. They can help pinpoint the location of cavities and other signs of disease that may not be possible to detect through a visual examination. All health care providers are sensitive to patients' concerns about exposure to radiation. Your dentist has been trained to prescribe radiographs when they are appropriate and to tailor the radiograph schedule to your individual needs. By using state-of-the-art technology, such as digital radiography, and by staying knowledgeable about recent advances, your dentist knows which techniques, procedures and X-ray films can minimize your exposure to radiation.
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