Replacement continued…the dilemma
The dilemma that I face when recommending these restorations (which I have had placed in my own teeth) has to do with the intent residing within the oath I signed upon becoming a dentist which states, “First, Do No Harm…” in juxtaposition to the patient’s desire to have natural tooth color, which is understandable. I know that when I drill off a lot of tooth structure I may be inviting a root canal treatment which could occur around treatment time, or delayed, maybe for years. And a root canal treatment on a back tooth is not a guarantee of its safety for the future. I have seen many back teeth fracture underneath the best of crowns requiring the tooth’s removal. Now we’re looking at an extraction, root replacement implant and new crown.
Some of the new porcelain materials are stronger, look great and fit better than those of the past, however they haven’t as yet compiled the track record of gold which has been used for over 100 years. However, in most cases, mercury amalgam fillings can be replaced with conservative cast gold restorations in a very inconspicuous manner.
I believe that it is very important to consider all parameters involved when making decisions concerning the health and longevity of one’s oral system, not only regarding safety in removing mercury amalgam fillings, but the type of materials used in replacing them, the quality of the dental laboratory, and the individuality of the patient. I want to honor my patient’s desires, however I also want their decisions to be influenced by facts that will allow them to make a properly informed one prior to even taking the first step.
*Dr. McBride received awards for excellence in gold technology in dental school and has been trained by Dr. Richard V. Tucker as a member of the Richard V. Tucker Study Club.
TESTIMONIAL OF MY PATIENT WITH ORIGINAL GOLD WORK IN PLACE FOR 30 YEARS:
“I trusted Dr. McBride’s judgment from the beginning in his dental recommendations. I had a lot of cavities as a teenager and young adult, and first of all he taught me how to stop getting them. Then he restored my teeth with conservative cast gold restorations which he said would be least traumatic to the teeth nerves and the most long lasting treatment available if done properly. I guess they were in that they have kept my teeth strong and healthy for over 30 years and I have had no cavities, re-treatment of his work or root canals on any of my teeth since I started with him. I love my smile – you can’t see any of the gold –but what’s more, they will probably last a lifetime. Treatment that’s done right the first time pays off year after year and is one of the best investments I’ve ever made in my health. Thank you Dr. McBride.” –Pam R.