Dr. George is not only committed to providing you with a stunning, healthy smile. He is also dedicated to your overall health. For this reason, he is proud to be a top holistic dentist in San Diego. He uses state-of-the-art materials that will benefit your comprehensive wellbeing, the environment, and the appearance of your smile. One of the most important materials he uses is composite resin. This material, a mixture of plastic and glass, can be used to create a lifelike crown or a sturdy dental filling. Dr. Georgaklis is proud to be on the forefront of dental technology. He has been using amalgam fillings since 1985, when they were first introduced. In this post, your La Jolla holistic dentist explains some of the many advantages of composite resin restorations.
1. Mercury-Free
Composite resin does not contain mercury. Silver amalgam, the other material commonly used to create dental fillings, is made up of about 50% mercury. This toxic metal can leak from fillings and enter into your blood stream. Mercury has been linked to a number of serious health concerns, including heart disease, infertility, tremors, memory loss, and other neurological conditions. The metal is especially harmful to unborn children and infants. The levels of mercury from dental fillings are relatively low. However, many dental experts have expressed concern over the widespread use of this material. In fact, amalgam fillings are banned in several countries. Dr. Georgaklis does not believe in taking unnecessary risks. Therefore, he offers all metal-free restorations.
2. BPA-Free
Some dental composites and sealants contain Bisphenol A (BPA). However, Dr. Georgaklis only uses BPA-free substances. Scientists continue to debate the exact effects of this substance. So far, studies have raised a number of alarming concerns. Among other things, BPA has been linked to abnormal hormone levels, cancer, behavioral issues, and heart conditions. Researchers believe that these risks may be greater for infants and children.
3. Stability
Unlike silver amalgam, dental composite will bond directly to your teeth. Crowns and fillings are partially designed to strengthen weakened teeth. Therefore, this stronger bond is an important consideration. In many cases, composite can more effectively restore your dental function. Additionally, amalgam fillings will change size in response to temperature fluctuations. Over the years, this can weaken the outer structure of your tooth, and you may eventually require a dental crown. Composite resin, on the other hand, will not expand or contract.
4. Natural Appearance
In addition to the important health benefits of composite resin, the material offers significant cosmetic advantages, as well. Eventually, amalgam fillings may show through your teeth, and your smile will have a gray tint. Similarly, if you receive a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown or bridge, the porcelain shell may wear away. Then the underlying dark colored metal will start to show through. Composite comes in a full spectrum of natural shades. Dr. Georgaklis will select the color that most closely matches your teeth. Composite resin is stain-resistant, and it does not contain metal. Therefore, your smile will maintain its sparkling, natural color.
Come Benefit from Our Holistic Care
You deserve treatment from a dentist committed to your overall health. To learn more about holistic dentistry or to schedule your appointment, contact Dr. George Georgaklis today.
