AMALGAM FILLINGS ARE THE SILVER COLOURED FILLINGS THAT MANY OF US GREW UP WITH.
They’ve been used to restore cavities caused by tooth decay for 150 years and were traditionally popular with dentists on the grounds of being cheap, strong and long-lasting.
However, the British Dental association and the Council of European Dentists are working together to bring about a full ban on the use of dental amalgam by 2030. The ban is due to concerns about the environmental damaged caused by the use of mercury (which is found in amalgam) rather than due to specific health concerns.
Dr Tracey Bell offers a comprehensive range of alternatives to amalgam, including white fillings and also porcelain and gold fillings, which can prove very hard-wearing and effective when large fillings are required, as well as CERAC fillings (which are created using computer-aided design).
She explained: “From 1st July 2018, dental amalgam should not be used in the treatment of deciduous teeth in children under 15-years-old or pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless deemed strictly necessary by the dentist based on the specific needs of the patient.
“Your dentist should advise you on the alternatives and help you choose a type of filling that is safe and durable.”
The team at Tracey Bell Liverpool will be on hand to advise patients under 15 and pregnant or breastfeeding women who attend their Mount Street clinic.
Research has not shown any health effects from amalgam fillings in pregnant women. However, mercury can cross to the placenta and dentists often advise pregnant women to avoid non-essential dental treatments. Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Germany have banned or restricted the use of mercury fillings and the UK and France are now following suit by limiting their use.
In addition to advising on the most suitable type of fillings for you and your family, the Tracey Bell dental team also offer preventative treatments, helping children to avoid tooth decay and encouraging patients of all ages to schedule regular hygienist appointments.
For further information on the phasing out of amalgam fillings, or to book an appointment, contact the Tracey Bell Liverpool team on: 0151 707 034, www.traceybell.co.uk
Related feature: Dr Tracey Bell welcomes an important milestone in safeguarding patient safety.
