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Archives for November 2013

When did they stop putting mercury in tooth fillings?

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I have never been to the dentist until now. I am 25 yrs old. We had a big family and going to the dentist was something we never did. We barely got to the doctor. Mom did lots of home remedies or we just rode it out. I finally had a dental appointment and it lasted 3 hrs because never in my life did I hae my teeth cleaned. It was painful and bloody but boy do my teeth look so much better. of course I have cavities since I had never been to a dentist, 8 cavities. I was really nervous about it but my dentist said they will be white fillings with no mercury in them.  I am happy they will be white.When did they stop putting mercury in fillings? – tim

Tim – Amalgam fillings, or silver fillings, are still in use by many dentists, and they still contain mercury.

You are fortunate to find a dentist who will use white composite fillings in your teeth. White fillings will blend in naturally with your teeth. They do not contain mercury. White fillings were first introduced in the 1970s, and the technology progressively improved through the mid-80s.

Today, white fillings are commonly used to naturally conceal cavities, and the technology behind them is excellent for filling cavities in front and back teeth. A dentist who is skilled in placing them will give you lasting results.

This post is sponsored by Metairie, New Orleans dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

My friend says Zoom whitening really hurts!

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I am thinking about getting my teeth whitened. I wanted in done in the office because it’s faster, but I have a friend that just got Zoom. She said that everything was okay right after the whitening session, but when she got home it felt like someone was sticking each tooth in an electric socket. She said the zinging sensation hurt really bad. That’s not what I was expecting. Does Zoom really hurt that bad? – Leslie

Leslie – If you choose Zoom whitening, find an experienced cosmetic dentist to do it. If your teeth are generally sensitive your dentist will anticipate any extra sensitivity you might experience. At times, it is necessary to shorten the usual three 15-minute Zoom sessions or allow time between sessions.

After the procedure, a fluoride-based desensitizer is used to protect the enamel of your teeth and reduce any sensitivity you might feel. If you experience more sensitivity than expected, you can take over-the-counter pain reliever.

If you choose Zoom, speak with your dentist about your concerns with sensitivity after treatment.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.