The health threat from mercury poisoning has long been an issue in dentistry due to the inclusion of mercury in silver amalgam fillings. For many years there was little that could be done about it, because there were no viable alternative filling materials available. In more recent years, however, the bonded composite resins have continuously been improved and strengthened to the point where they are today a very viable option to the use of dental amalgam fillings, even in the back chewing teeth.
If you have new cavities or old silver fillings that are in need of replacement, ask your dentist about tooth colored fillings. These bonded composite resins can be done in one visit like the old amalgam fillings, or in the case of more extensive tooth structure damage, in two visits as an inlay or onlay made in the laboratory.
Amalgams vs Composites
When considering what you want for your teeth, consider the following points:
* Amalgams cost less generally, but also look cheaper. Amalgams darken with age and end up as black fillings. Composites are tooth colored and the newer generations hold their color very well.
* Amalgams contain mercury, which is a very toxic heavy metal. The degree to which mercury is released from amalgam fillings has long been in dispute, but there is no question that it is released and absorbed into the system. It can not easily be removed from the body once absorbed, so it has a cummulative affect. There is some occurance of allergy to dental composite resins, but this is quite rare and usually self limiting as well.
* In order to place an amalgam filling, quite a bit more tooth structure must be removed, beyond the actual decay in the case of small new cavities, than with the bonded composites.
* Amalgam tends to expand with age, pushing outward on the tooth from within the cavity preparation. This leads to many teeth cracking and breaking off parts of the teeth. When properly handled, composite resins tend to hold the tooth together because of the bonding.
* Amalgam restorations are weakest at the margin between filling and tooth where they are thinnest. It is here that they chip and wear and begin to allow re-decay underneath. Composites are actually strongest at the bond junction between tooth and filling. There tends to be much less re-decay at this junction than with traditional amalgam.
* Amalgam conducts heat readily leading to many teeth having post-operative sensitivity. With properly placed composite resins, we experience much less post-operative sensitivity than in the past.
It is important that you develop a good raport with your dentist and discuss with them the materials planned for use in your teeth. Research your options and ask your dentist about your findings.
Stains are a real nuisance especially when it is on your favorite clothing and worse if you discover it later. Some stubborn stains need special treatment but most of the stains disappear if treated immediately. Usually soapy water if spread lightly is considered the best solution to get stains out of fabric. You need to scrub properly and then dry thoroughly. If this method does not work you can use the steam cleaner method but avoid harsh chemicals. A little baking soda would also help and if none of these work then you need to send it for dry cleaning. We bring some useful tips to get stains out of fabric.
Alcohol Stains
You have to blot the alcohol stains and then apply vinegar with a sponge on the same spot and later rinse it. If the stain still remains then try hydrogen peroxide.
Bloodstains
This is one of the most common stains that you have to encounter with. First scrape the bloodstain and then use cold water to blot the spot. If the stain remains use ammonia and rinse it properly. Try some hydrogen peroxide if nothing seems to work.
Candle Wax
First you need to scrape off the wax. Use a clean cloth over the area and run your iron that is warm over it to make the wax melt and get absorbed in the cloth. The rest can be removed with the help of a fluid used for dry cleaning.
Chocolate Stains
You need to scrape it first and then use the fluid that is used when dry cleaning with a sponge. Then use a solution of detergent with the sponge on the spot and rinse it. If it still persists use a bleach solution or hydrogen peroxide. For coffee stains also you can use a solution which has detergent and then rinse it. Then add vinegar to blot the area after which you need to rinse again and allow it to dry in the air.
Stains Made by Ink
Sponge the stains with a solution of detergent and rinse properly. For stubborn stains you can use inexpensive hair spray or alcohol. You can even use acetone or non oily nail polish remover and bleach that are safe for the fabric.
Mustard and Ketchup Stains
These stains should be scraped. Then sponge it with solution that has detergent first, then with vinegar or bleach and rinse it thoroughly.
Mildew Stains
Dry brush the area and then sponge it with antiseptic solution and then mark the area. Next you can apply ammonia with the help of a sponge and then rinse it off. You can also use a bleaching product made out of chlorine if considered safe for the fabric or else hydrogen peroxide would work as well.
Rust Stains in White Cotton Fabrics
You need to rub lemon juice and salt and leave it for several hours and then wash it normally. If you place it in the sun it is more effective.
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Steven Brazis has sinced written about articles on various topics from Dental Practice, Dental Implants and Family. Steven J. Brazis DDS is a family and cosmetic dentist in Sacramento, CA. He has been practicing for 35 years and has written one book and many articles on dentistry. You can visit his web site at:. Steven Brazis's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.
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