The Dangers Of Dental Materials

The Dangers of Dental Materials: A Biological Dental Viewpoint

Shannon Korczynski

7/14/20245 min read

In the realm of biological dentistry, the focus is on materials and practices that align with the body’s natural healing processes and overall well-being. Traditional dental treatments often involve materials and chemicals that can pose significant health risks. This post highlights some key concerns associated with common dental materials, emphasizing the need for safer, more holistic alternatives.

Mercury Fillings: The Silent Toxicity

Mercury amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, have been used for over a century. However, their use is fraught with controversy due to the mercury content, which constitutes about 50% of the filling. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can have severe effects on the brain and nervous system.

Key Issues:

  • Neurotoxicity: Chronic exposure to mercury can lead to neurological issues, including memory loss, tremors, and mood swings.

  • Systemic Impact: Mercury can accumulate in organs, affecting the kidneys, liver, and immune system.

  • Environmental Hazard: Mercury from dental offices can contaminate water supplies, posing a risk to wildlife and ecosystems.

Studies show a dose-dependent relationship between the number of amalgam fillings and the incidence of conditions like arthritis. Addressing these challenges through proper detoxification methods is crucial for overall health.

Biological Dental Approach: Biological dentists advocate for the removal of mercury fillings using the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol. This method minimizes mercury exposure during the removal process, ensuring the safety of both patients and dental staff. Detoxification protocols are often recommended to help the body eliminate accumulated mercury.

Fluoride: Questioning the Benefits

Fluoride has been widely promoted for its cavity-preventing properties. However, solid evidence now suggests that its risks may outweigh its benefits.

Key Issues:

  • Neurotoxicity: High levels of fluoride exposure can lead to significant neurological damage, including lower IQ scores in children. A comprehensive meta-analysis by Harvard researchers found that children in high-fluoride areas had significantly lower IQ scores compared to those in low-fluoride areas.

  • Bone Damage: Excessive fluoride intake can lead to skeletal fluorosis, a condition where bones become brittle and more susceptible to fractures. Studies in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research highlight the prevalence and severity of skeletal fluorosis in endemic fluorosis areas in China.

  • Alzheimer's and Dementia: Fluoride exposure has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Some studies suggest that fluoride can exacerbate cognitive decline by increasing oxidative stress and promoting inflammation in the brain.

  • Ethical Concerns: The mass fluoridation of water supplies raises ethical questions about consent and individual choice.

Biological Dental Approach: Biological dentists recommend avoiding fluoride and using alternative methods to strengthen and remineralize teeth, such as calcium phosphate-based products and diet modifications to enhance oral health.

BPA in Sealants and Composites: Endocrine Disruption

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical commonly found in dental sealants and composite fillings. It’s known to disrupt endocrine function, mimicking estrogen and potentially leading to a variety of health issues.

Key Issues:

  • Hormonal Imbalance: BPA exposure can affect reproductive health and development.

  • Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest a link between BPA and an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer.

  • Behavioral Effects: BPA has been associated with behavioral problems in children, including hyperactivity and aggression.

A systematic review found that BPA can dissolve in saliva from dental resins, leading to increased BPA levels in the body shortly after dental procedures. This exposure can be minimized by using a rubber dam during procedures, immediate polishing of resins, and using glycerin gel to ensure proper polymerization of the resin.

Biological Dental Approach: Biological dentists emphasize the importance of considering the potential for BPA exposure before placing sealants for prevention. They advocate for consulting on ways to strengthen the tooth and waiting for incipient decay to form before placing any material. This approach allows the tooth's natural process to detox and heal.

Nitrous Oxide: Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Consequences

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is often used for its anesthetic and calming effects. While it is effective in reducing pain and anxiety, its use is not without risks.

Key Issues:

  • Vitamin B12 Depletion: Prolonged exposure to nitrous oxide can deplete vitamin B12, leading to neurological damage.

  • Respiratory Concerns: Inhalation of nitrous oxide can cause respiratory issues, including hypoxia (low oxygen levels).

  • Addiction Potential: There is a risk of abuse and dependence with repeated use.

Biological Dental Approach: Biological dentists use nitrous oxide only when necessary and consult patients on supplementation for potential side effects, especially for those with MTHFR gene mutations. Supportive modalities include dietary supplements, herbal remedies, and homeopathic treatments to mitigate any adverse effects.

Understanding the Presence of mRNA and Graphene Oxide in Local Anesthetics: Separating Fact from Fiction

In today's digital age, it's easy for misinformation to spread quickly, causing unnecessary concern and fear. Recently, there have been questions regarding the presence of mRNA and graphene oxide in local anesthetics. Let's explore these topics to provide clarity and reassurance.

Concerns About Graphene Oxide

Graphene oxide is a component found in some liposomal nanoparticles used in long-acting local anesthetics like Ropivacaine and Bupivacaine. Research has indicated that graphene materials can cause dose-dependent toxicity, leading to liver and kidney injury, lung granuloma formation, decreased cell viability, and cell apoptosis (cell death).

Given these potential risks, many biological offices avoid using any long-acting anesthetics containing graphene oxide or injectable hydrogels. Instead, they use short-term anesthetics that typically wear off in 2-3 hours. For those who metabolize anesthetics quickly, a pre-appointment meal rich in protein and fats can help prolong the anesthetic effect.

Addressing the mRNA Rumor

There's a circulating rumor that mRNA, similar to that used in certain vaccines, has been added to local anesthetics. This claim stems from the presence of graphene oxide in some formulations, leading to unfounded fears that mRNA might be included as well. However, mRNA is not used in local anesthetics due to stability requirements and different purposes.

Chemically Treated Water Lines

Many dental units use chemical water treatments to ensure that the water used during procedures is free from contaminants. These treatments often involve tablets or solutions added to the water to disinfect and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. However, these chemicals can also pose risks if not properly managed.

Key Issues:

  • Chemical Exposure: Chemical tablets used in these lines are still present in the water during procedures, leading to prolonged exposure for both dental staff and patients.

  • Cationic Surfactants: Many of these chemical tablets contain cationic surfactants, which can be harmful with prolonged exposure.

  • Biofilm Management: Ineffective maintenance can lead to biofilm formation, where harmful bacteria can thrive and potentially lead to infections.

Biological Dental Approach: To minimize these risks, biological dentists use ozone water in their dental lines, which is a natural and effective disinfectant. They maintain strict protocols for water system maintenance and use biocompatible disinfectants wherever possible.

Ensuring Your Safety

As biological professional, the commitment to patients’ safety and well-being is unwavering. We carefully select the anesthetics and post-operative care solutions used in daily practices. Here are some safer alternatives that align with holistic principles:

  • Mercury-Free Fillings: Use ceramic and composite fillings free from mercury.

  • Fluoride Alternatives: Employ diet and natural agents like calcium phosphate.

  • Minimizing BPA Exposure: Choose dental materials with the lowest possible BPA content and employ protective measures.

  • Natural Pain Management: Utilize platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), ozone and laser therapies, herbal remedies, and homeopathy for pain relief.

Conclusion

The materials used in traditional dentistry can pose significant risks to our health and the environment. By understanding these dangers and seeking out holistic, biocompatible alternatives, we can protect our well-being while maintaining optimal dental health. Embracing biological dentistry means prioritizing treatments that support the body's natural healing processes, ensuring a healthier future for ourselves and the planet.

For those concerned about the potential risks associated with dental materials, consulting with a natural health practitioner or holistic dental health coach can provide valuable support and information tailored to your individual needs.

Let's continue this journey to holistic dental wellness together!