Dr Ellie,
Yesterday, the dentist noticed a small hole, (not a cavity) in a tooth about 1mm in size.
He’s not sure of the reason for it.
He plans on putting a sealeant on it since he feels it’s too deep for remineralizing.
Do you agree? Or is it possible to up the amount of Xylitol and ACT and achieve a good outcome?
JC
Dear JC
I am not in any position to diagnose from a computer screen.
On the other hand what is the danger of waiting a few months?
You had a cavity that most dentists would want to fill ASAP and it disappeared.
There should be no harm in waiting 6 months providing you are doing the mouth rinses I recommend twice a day (in the correct order) and having sufficient xylitol each day.
For maximum benefit from xylitol I am recommending Zellies mints or gum after meals – and in addition sip a glass of water each morning that contains one teaspoon of xylitol in it. Mix the xylitol into the 8-10 oz of water and then sip it during the morning. You will definitely not allow disease to get worse – and may repair this problem – and avoid a filling.
I guess the next question to ask yourself “how bad is a filling” – My advice – avoid them if you can.
Hope this helps,
Ellie
Categories: Uncategorized
can you elaborate on why you said "avoid a filling if you can". Aside from the cost of the procedure I am wondering if you meant that fillings can make things worse or have side effects etc. I am talking about composite fillings where I know there is the BPA risk but are there any other risks?
This is an interesting question for me. I once heard a dentist say "What is so bad about a filling?" I could not believe my ears!Here are some reasons to avoid a filling in my opinion: 1) a filling leaves a tooth with a defect – it is no longer natural and pristine.2) there is no perfect material – either mercury, BPA ( that you mentioned) or harder than teeth ( porcelain) which can wear opposing teeth3) White fillings are very sensitive to moisture and may last ( according to ADA) only 5-7 years before needing replacement4) White fillings are plaque – magnets ( and appear to attract more plaque than silver or gold ones)5) Deep white fillings often cause tooth sensitivity – possibly from the acid-etch technique used to "glue" them in place6) White fillings are more easily worn away than other fillings The most important fact is that the NEED for a filling is created by damage – caused by an infectious bacteria.The filling does nothing to stop the infection – so more fillings will occur. I prefer to stop the infection – Then try to remineralize the cavity over at least 4-6 months – then review if a filling is needed.Many smaller cavities will repair themselves in this time – then no filling is needed.It seems a shame to fill a tooth that could be given the chance to repair itself naturally – that is my opinion. Thanks again for your message,Ellie