Dr. Brianne Luu at Gentle Care Dentistry wants to ensure her patients in the Azusa area can enjoy mercury safe dentistry. Mercury safe dentistry means that her practice does not place mercury fillings (also known as silver amalgam fillings) and if they are removed, it is done in a specific manner to protect patient, dentist, and staff. Mercury safe dentistry is an important aspect of her practice and she is proud to offer this service to those who visit.

Instead of using silver amalgam fillings, which contain approximately 50 percent mercury, she utilizes composite resin tooth fillings instead. They are used for addressing areas of decay.

Composite resin fillings are highly preferable to silver amalgam fillings. First, they do not carry the same risk as traditional fillings. Mercury is a toxic substance and has been linked to many medical and neurological issues, so it is important to reduce exposure. Second, silver amalgam fillings are metal and tend to expand and contract, which can introduce bacteria into the tooth. This may result in the need for root canal therapy or worse, extraction. Third, silver amalgam fillings are unsightly and highly noticeable in the smile. Composite resin fillings are tooth-colored and blend in with the enamel, making a discreet solution.

Composite resin fillings are placed during a single appointment. Patients come into the practice for their filling appointment and they will be anesthetized as necessary. The area is cleaned and prepared, and then the composite filling is put in place. This is a clay-like material that is put into the tooth and shaped appropriately. It is hardened with a special light, and the shaped and polished to blend in with the tooth structure.

Dr. Brianne Luu of Gentle Care Dentistry encourages patients to take the time to learn about solutions such as composite resin fillings when tooth decay occurs and avoiding the long-used treatments such as silver amalgam fillings. It is time for Azusa area patients to learn more about the advantages of mercury safe dentistry and discover how it can positively affect one’s health and wellness.

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