I’m getting used to having medical people think I’m nuts, but at this point in my life, I know my body. Every time there is metal involved, I feel awful. I want to get rid of my metal fillings. I think they’re giving me problems. I took a Clifford’s test and it did show I have quite a few metal sensitivities. My dentist feels like it’s bunk. So, what I’m asking is will every dentist feel this way and I just have to deal with it or is there a chance there’s a dentist out there who will take me seriously?

Cara

Dear Cara,

I understand what you’re going through. Many dentists still find the Clifford’s test to be controversial. Notice I said many, not all. That’s the good news for you. There are dentists out there who will take you seriously and work around your metal sensitivities.

Your best option is to find a metal-free dentist. However, the limitation for you is to find one who also knows how to safely remove amalgam fillings.

Removing Amalgam Fillings Requires a Special Procedure

Make sure you ask whatever dentist you’re considering whether or not they know the procedure for sanitary amalgam removal. The mercury in the silver fillings causes a danger to you. You want your dentist to know the steps to prevent you from swallowing the pieces or inhaling any mercury vapors. Most mercury-free dentists know how to do that.

Are Metal-Free Fillings Safer?

I’m guessing your dentist quoted to you the fact that the ADA has proclaimed after numerous studies that amalgam fillings are perfectly safe. What he probably didn’t mention is there are as many studies done by other groups which say they aren’t. Much of the difference has to do with the conditions under which the tests were performed. For instance, the ADA’s tests were done under static conditions, whereas the other tests were done under real-world conditions.

Regardless of the amount of release of mercury from the fillings, that’s not your actual problem. You’re allergic to the metal. They could be perfectly safe for millions of people, but that doesn’t change your allergies.

What Metal-Free Services are Available?

In addition to metal-free fillings, which are worlds better for your teeth than their silver counterparts, you can also get all-porcelain dental crowns or Zirconia Crowns. You no longer have to get a metal-based crown. In fact, most dentists should discourage them on front teeth. They are remarkably unattractive looking, which isn’t what you want in your smile. Plus, they always develop a gray line at your gumline. Also not a pretty smile feature.

Additionally, you can now get metal-free dental implants. Using zirconia instead of titanium you can have a dental implant which won’t affect your allergies in any way whatsoever.

This blog is brought to you by Decatur Dentists Dr. Drake and Wallace.