dental fillings

[smartyjones]

my older non-pandas son has a slight cavity. they are going to put a "sealant" on it - still have to drill, so i'm not sure what's the difference btwn that and a "filling". i still have to research.

 

i discussed that i did not want mercury. he said they don't generally use it but the dental profession does not believe it is troublesome. i don't care b/c i know people i trust who believe it's a problem and it's enough for me that there is some controversy to just avoid it.

 

i will do more research, but does anyone have opinions about fillings and sealants?

 

thanks.

[thereishope]

I think it's more of superficial, beginning part of a cavity. They won't drill deep. My husband had that and they didn't even use novacain. But ask and verify that.

[jayjay]

my older non-pandas son has a slight cavity. they are going to put a "sealant" on it - still have to drill, so i'm not sure what's the difference btwn that and a "filling". i still have to research.

 

i discussed that i did not want mercury. he said they don't generally use it but the dental profession does not believe it is troublesome. i don't care b/c i know people i trust who believe it's a problem and it's enough for me that there is some controversy to just avoid it.

 

i will do more research, but does anyone have opinions about fillings and sealants?

 

thanks.

A sealant is a liquid coating they cover the tooth with. They paint it on, shine a light on it, and it hardens. They normally do it for kids when they get their adult back molars in if they have deep fissures to prevent cavities. It can also be done if there is a cavity and it is not too deep yet. They will drill a little to remove the "dirt" and seal it.

 

As far as a normal amalgum "mercury" filling. If you do not want them in your or your child's mouth, ask for a composite "tooth colored" filling. You might have to pay extra because some insurances will not cover it if it is in the back of your mouth. But you should be given the choice by your dentist.

[dut]

Hi - you may also want to check what sealant they will use. Some contain BPA which in low doses is linked to obesity, breast and prostate cancer, hyperactivity, diabetes and other health concerns.

 

The 'sides' differ on the safety of it in sealants but sealants without BPA are available, so I would always err on the side of caution....