Dentists have been using metal to repair teeth for many years, and the alloy appeared to do the trick admirably. Unfortunately, various studies have led to metal being blamed for certain adverse health effects. It might also surprise people to learn that metal can end up damaging teeth as time passes.

To help dental patients avoid or recover from these adverse effects, some dentists have begun offering metal-free dentistry. Metal-free dentistry focuses on removing mercury fillings and using alternative materials to fix teeth. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the problems caused by metal, as well as the advantages of metal-free dentistry.

Repairing teeth without mercury
Using mercury to repair teeth has been a controversial method for decades. What was once a common practice is now suspected of causing afflictions including fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, brain and kidney problems, and multiple sclerosis. There is still much debate over how much mercury is actually to blame for these health problems, but enough doubt exists that many dentists are staying away from using the metal.

Many dental patients are choosing to have their metal mercury fillings removed in order to prevent or alleviate associated health problems. The dentists who remove mercury fillings must be specially equipped and trained, because it can cause mercury particles to fly around and potentially enter the patient’s lungs.

Saving teeth from shape-changing metal
Over time, metal fillings can change shape and damage teeth. Metal fillings expand and contract when heated and cooled, which can cause teeth to crack, leak and decay. This expansion and contraction is a painful and destructive process that eventually requires more dental work and more money spent. Instead of using these tooth-fracturing metals, dentists have made a major shift toward using composite materials that are unaffected by high or low temperatures.

The advantages of metal-free dentistry
Only a small percentage of dentists actually practice metal-free dentistry, but you should contact your nearest professional to experience the health benefits they offer. These dentists can safely and effectively remove mercury metal fillings, which for some people can alleviate toxic and allergic reactions.

In addition to the health benefits of composite materials as opposed to metal fillings, composite materials have several cosmetic advantages that metal can’t match. Composite materials can be colored to closely match the tooth’s natural color, whereas metal is a very obvious addition to the tooth. Composite materials are also designed for long-term durability and attractiveness, so you will rarely need to have the same teeth worked on by your dentist.

Contact Dr. Poss for first-class metal-free dentistry
If you have old metal fillings that you would like to have removed for increased beauty and safety, contact Dr. Poss, Nashville Cosmetic Dentist. Dr. Poss closely follows the specific guidelines mandated by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, which enables him to safely remove your metal fillings and restore your healthy smile. Letting a metal-free dentist maintain your oral health is the reassurance you need that your smile has a bright and healthy future.