DENTAL-RELATED ALLERGY
WHAT IS A DENTAL-RELATED ALLERGY?
If you experience sensitivity or an adverse reaction from your dental crown or filling, you may be allergic to some of the common metals used in dentistry. The sensitivity may be immediate upon contact or develop later. Symptoms of a dental related allergy include swelling and inflammation in the gums. The metals that usually cause the most reactions are mercury, nickel, and amalgam.
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Dentists use mercury in silver fillings. This brings down the cost of dental fillings for both the dentist and the patient. They also use nickel in many crowns and partial dentures for strength and stability. Amalgam causes the most adverse reactions. It is made from a combination of metals and is also used in fillings. Most dentists use this metal because of its affordability, durability, and ease of application.
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Dr. Tamayev knows how inconvenient and expensive dental related allergies can be. That’s why he's here to diagnose your allergy and help you find alternatives to metals in your dental care.
DENTAL-RELATED ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS
Before seeking dental care, it’s important to visit a board certified allergist for an allergy test. Dr. Tamayev can test you for sensitivities to certain metals used in dentistry. A patch test or allergy blood test can detect these types of allergies. During a patch test, you may feel discomfort early on but symptoms can also be delayed; so Dr. T will leave the patch on the skin for at least two days. For those that don’t want to experience skin discomfort, opt for the blood test. The blood test measures whether the immune system reacts to specific metals.
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These allergy tests are important because they decrease the possibility of a dental procedure failing. Unknown dental allergies lead to failing implants, multiple sessions to remove and install new fillings, and discomfort. It’s best to diagnose these allergies before any dental reconstruction.
ALTERNATIVES TO METALS IN DENTAL CARE
Many dentists will offer metal-free options for fillings and dental implants. Zirconia or ceramic materials are available for dental reconstruction. These materials are strong and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Zirconia has a white color that will blend well with your teeth.
While these materials may be provided to you at a slightly higher cost, they are a safer and more hygenic option than metals. You may notice a difference in your dental care with zirconia or ceramic materials.
SUMMARY
If you have questions about your dental related allergy or other metal allergies, call Dr. Tamayev. Dr. T can accommodate for same-day appointments and are always accepting new patients. Don’t wait to book your appointment with our allergy specialists. Book an appointment today by using the button below!
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