Re: Gum disease, infection and root canal

The metal in the bridge that dental technicians make does not contain mercury (thank goodness), however they do contain other metals. Yes, yes, I am a dentist... but very open minded.

There was a scare at one stage where bridges were being sent to the middle/far east to be made, and some came back with lead in them (highly toxic). I believe that has now been sorted out.

If you would like a metal free bridge, ask your dentist for a ZIRCONIA bridge, this is a high strength ceramic bridge that is totally safe and very strong (as strong as metal). But be prepared to pay more for it as it is computer milled (mostly). I place these often and patients' mouths and even the gums look healthier around these bridges, over time.

However if you have had the bridges placed already, well, probably better to leave them if cost is an issue.

Lastly, the best way to treat gum diease is to keep the bacteria/germ count in your mouth as low as possible. This is done by brushing twice a day for 2 minutes, and flossing every day. If the bacteria count increases, then there is a reaction which causes the gum infection to flare up in the body.

You should have gum infection seen to by a dentist (I know it is expensive, but worth it in the long run - probably cheaper than having all the restorative treatment in the long term). They will clean out all the build up from under the gums where you can't get to with a tooth brush/floss.

Remember that the bacteria in the mouth also contributes to other illnesses in the body, so keep your mouth as clean as possible to avoid other illnesses.

Lastly, there is obviously controversy around root canals, to cut a long debate short, which is the lesser of the evils, an abscessed tooth and infection in the body, no tooth and the damage of an unbalanced mouth/bite, a tooth that is root canaled that could be emmitting toxins over a long time? Hmm, It all depends on how strong your immune system is, and how healthy you are in daily living, I guess. If money is not a problem, an implant would probably be a better solution in the long run.

Hope this helps?!

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