Metal Fillings

     Most people have heard of heavy metal toxicity. Lead is an example of a heavy metal that is now known to have an adverse effect on health. Mercury is no longer considered the benign substance that chemistry professors could pour on their desks, or through their fingers for demonstration. Mercury thermometers have been banned, since even the small amount of mercury they contain is considered hazardous waste, and breaking one is therefore dangerous. A very small amount of mercury in a lake makes all the fish within inedible. And mercury exposure to deep water fish has become a concern for public consumption. But the Dental Association still approves this hazardous waste for the use of filling teeth. 
      Admitting the toxic nature of mercury fillings could initiate an avalanche of lawsuits, something the Dental Association can't afford to do, so they maintain that mercury, though considered a hazardous or lethal substance, in other settings, is perfectly fine to put in people's mouths. Heat, from hot drinks or foods, increase the toxic effect, as does abrasion, from chewing. Most insurance companies will pay for metal fillings but not the more expensive, though less toxic composite ones.
     Removing metal fillings can dump even more toxins in the body, resulting in a temporary healing crisis, or chronic health issues, if not removed properly. There are Holistic dentists with specific training to safely remove metal fillings that limit exposure to their patients. 
     There are nutritional supplements that can be prescribed to detoxify mercury. Seaweed, with its natural source of iodine incorporated in the diet can be beneficial in heavy metal detox, though not enough on its own to deal with toxic overload. Even after fillings are removed, finding a qualified health care practitioner to help with the detoxification process is advisable. Toxins are stored in the fat cells, and until those fat cells are used and the toxins within are not released. Toxins can be stored from childhood, infancy, or as a fetus, from one's mother. Detoxification is therefore an ongoing process.
      Holistic Dentistry is an emerging field. So just say no to metal fillings, and find a good Holistic dentist.
                                              
                                                            Health & Happiness,
                                                                      Nancy Burton, L.Ac.
                                                                                534 Washington St.  Ashland, OR 97520
                                                                                For Appointments Call:   541-646-0134