The patient came into our office desiring cosmetic treatment with sensitive teeth and a history of drinking soda and iced tea with lots of sugar. Her goal was to have the perfect smile with veneers. One of her fillings had fallen out. The patients teeth were so sensitive that she requested we only use plastic instruments on her. We used the Diagnodent Laser cavity detector. We discussed with the patient the option of composite veneers verses porcelain veneers. We offered cosmetic imaging so that the patient could see what she would look like with veneers. It will definitely be a life changing and dramatic transformation!
Posts Tagged ‘ filling ’
Now that the panic created in the ’90s over mercury levels in amalgam fillings has calmed somewhat, a more rational evaluation of the perceived problems can be adopted. It is concluded that the amounts of mercury vapor releases from dental amalgam is in such small quantities as to be harmless, even in a mouth full of dental work. That said many people might still desire to have all such work revised with the latest filling alternatives containing no trace of mercury.
In most cases, removing all existing amalgam fillings and replacing them with a composite alternative is not worth the associated risks. The only medical benefit is in the patient’s own perception of safety. Meanwhile, real risks of infection and problems with local anesthesia outweigh any actual benefits from removing amalgam filling that contain trace amounts of mercury.
However, poorly created fillings, or fillings mixed with too much mercury may justify replacement. It is best to consult with a trusted peridontist, cosmetic dentist, or oral surgeon to find out if current amalgam fillings are defective in any way. If removal and replacement is recommended, or desired by the patient for aesthetic reasons, the procedures can still be effectively completed. The benefits of sedation dentistry make the prospect of replacing all old fillings with new ones, if not exactly a pleasure, at least more palatable than when the original work was performed.
To find out more about amalgam filling replacement using composite fillings in the Shawnee area, contact Dr. Castaneda today.
