Dental Malpractice Attorney DC Services
Most dental fillings are called dental amalgams or mercury amalgams. Dental amalgams are comprised of approximately 40 to 50 percent mercury, a substance toxic to humans. According to the FDA, dental amalgam contains elemental mercury that “releases low levels of mercury vapor that can be inhaled”. In high dosages, exposure to mercury vapor is associated with health complications, especially damage to the brain and kidneys.
U.S. regulatory agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are still investigating the safety of certain amalgams used in common procedures, including fillings. Although no scientific evidence clearly links amalgams to harm to patients who have undergone dental restoration, some amalgam manufacturers have included warning labels cautioning against using amalgams in very young children, or women who are pregnant or who are nursing.
Over the past twenty years, national and international scientists have studied the effects of dental amalgams on patients of all ages. In the early 1990s, organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission concluded that dental amalgam restorations are safe. However, the CDC and FDA have continued to study the long-term health effects of exposure to amalgam fillings. In addition, several countries and some states, including California, Maine, and Connecticut, have warned the public about the possible detrimental effects of dental amalgams.
The current trend in the U.S. involves a decrease in the use of dental amalgams in favor of plastic-based filling. Plastic-based filling material is becoming especially popular among pediatric dentists. The decrease in dental amalgams also can be linked to increasing community access to fluoridation, as well as greater access to quality dental care.
If you or your child has experienced serious health problems as a result of a dental filling, you should see a heath care provider right away. Additionally, you may need to seek a dental malpractice attorney in order to protect your legal rights. Because there are time-sensitive deadlines for filing a law suit, you should not hesitate to seek legal counsel. The experienced lawyers at Injury Law Education Center P.C. have the knowledge and passion to help injured people recover just compensation. Call today for a free consultation.
Dental Sealants Overview
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings often applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where tooth decay is most prevalent. These sealants are used primarily in children ages 6 to the early teen years. It is during these formative years that cavities are most likely to form. It is important to cover uneven chewing surfaces to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
Most dental sealants contain a chemical known as Bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is common in consumer plastic products. In recent years, some scientific studies have linked BPA to certain negative health effects, including problems relating to hormone regulation. However, the ADA currently maintains that dental sealants are both safe and effective.
If you or your child has experienced serious health problems as a result of dental sealants, you should see a heath care provider right away. Additionally, you may need to seek a dental malpractice attorney in order to protect your legal rights. Because there are time-sensitive deadlines for filing a law suit, you should not hesitate to seek legal counsel. The experienced lawyers at Injury Law Education Center P.C. have the knowledge and passion to help injured people recover just compensation. Call today for a free consultation.