How Toxic is Your Mouth?

Taking care of our teeth is essential not only for that stunning smile but also because of the affect it has on how healthy we feel. So when you go to the dentist do you know what type of filling you are getting and how it is likely to affect your health?

There are several different types of fillings but one of the main ones used to date is mercury based amalgams. We know mercury is a highly toxic chemical - in fact it is one of the most toxic chemicals on the planet - and yet it is still being used in the human mouth. Whilst many dentists claim that there is no harm in using amalgams, the debate for and against is fierce. Mercury fillings release a small amount of mercury vapour, the greater the number of fillings the more the vapour released, but this is deemed within the safe limits set by the World Health Organisation. However, some people can be very sensitive to this and can suffer symptoms such as headaches, fatigue and nervous system disorders. Sadly, there have been no controlled trials done on this as yet.

Whilst the research is still debateable some countries and American states such as California have already passed legislation to ban its use. Many other countries including the UK, Canada, Norway and Sweden have banned its use with pregnant women. There is also an increasing environmental lobby against the use of mercury. This is deemed of such importance that the EU have agreed to ban even traditional mercury based barometers.

So why are amalgam fillings still used? Because they are cheap, durable and long lasting. When inserted they are classified as safe, but when removed they go straight into a bin labelled toxic waste!

Luckily there are other options. You could go for inert materials such as white composite or porcelain. These are not as strong but may offer less risk to your health and look better cosmetically - I think I'd prefer a smile with white fillings rather than a mouth full of silver! There are various dental associations who have recognised the risks of amalgams and hold registers of dentists offering health conscious patients treatments accordingly. Visit The British Society of Mercury Free Dentistry at www.mercury-free.co.uk

I often work alongside patients who are undergoing dental treatment, helping them to cleanse their systems during and after treatment. Some modern dentists may even offer these detoxification regimes alongside their dental treatments. So check out the debates and have a discussion with your dentist rather than automatically opting for the cheapest and easiest.

Remember, your health matters and your fillings are going to be in your mouth for a long time.

Rumana will be running a yoga, walking and health retreat in southern Spain, 20-27 June. More information can be found on the website or call 01325 722803.

Rumana Zahn is a Naturopath and Medical Herbalist and runs clinics in Newcastle (within a GPs practice), Darlington and Seaham Hall’s Serenity Spa. She is a leader within the field of Natural Medicine, writes and speaks extensively on the subject. She can be contacted on 01325 722803 or www.rumanahealth.com

Rumana is a member of the British Register of Complementary Practitioners.

 

 

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