Along about 1987 Dr. Payne began observing a
correlation in patients general health following dental treatment.
The use of mercury in dental restorations was being called into
question and several researchers, including Dr. Hal Huggins, were
investigating the link between dental materials and patient
health.
Dr. Payne attended several workshops on
the subject of biocompatible dental materials,
including workshops conducted by Dr. Hal Huggins. Although their
research indicated that a maximum of 25% of all patients experience
some level of medical symptoms in reaction to materials used in
amalgam filings, in 1988 Dr. Payne decided that he would no longer
use amalgam in his dental practice.
Part of his decision was based on the
development and perfection of a material called
composite-resin. This is a medical-grade plastic that
is extruded in a paste form, bonded to the wall of the tooth, and
light-cured to a hardness that is nearly identical to a natural
tooth. The bonding method used actually strengthens the tooth and
significantly reduces the incidence of recurring decay.
Amalgam is made up of an alloy of
silver, tin, zinc, copper and mercury. This material is packed into
the void left in the tooth after the decay is removed. Questions of
allergic reactions and biocompatibility aside, the main drawback to
using amalgam for filling is that it is not usually bonded to the
tooth and, being a metal alloy, with time expands and contracts,
weakening the walls of the tooth and leaving space between the
filling and wall of the tooth. This space is an ideal hiding place
for bacteria, which causes decay.
1325 E. First Street - PO Box 964 - McPherson,
KS 67460
620-241-0266 -
mailbox@sunbirddental.com
Before you speak a word, your smile says volumes about
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