I had a root canal treatment done where the dentist broke the file in my tooth. While he did try to retrieve it, the procedure failed. I’ve been in a lot of pain and developed eczema. I went to see an allergist and have been diagnosed with quite a few dental allergies. I’ve been diagnosed with allergies to dental cement, formaldehyde, cobalt, chromium, titanium, many chemicals sensitivities, as well as Type IV metal allergies. Is it possible to find a dentist who is familiar with these type of allergies? I am miserable.
Christine
Dear Christine,
I have been thinking about your situation. I don’t think you will necessarily find a dentist familiar with your specific allergies. However, there is good news. You will only need to find a dentist willing to work around your specific allergies. You have probably already run into a bunch of dentists who do not take your allergies seriously and try to pressure you into the standard treatments. Don’t bother trying to convince them of anything. Their minds are set. Some of them don’t even think the allergy tests are legitimate so you will not get anywhere with them.
Instead, I want you to do an Internet search for a “Holistic Dentist“. These are still general dentists, but they factor in the health of your whole body and not just your teeth. Some people call them biological or natural dentists. So that gives you a couple more search terms to try. The key is they are willing to work with patients who have limitations the way your body does to find a healthy solution.
They are even good at helping you replace dental work that could be causing reactions in your body. As an example, they know how to safely remove old amalgam (silver) fillings without exposing you to the mercury content. They would be a great resource for trading off your old silver fillings for mercury-free composite fillings.
This blog is brought to you by West Seneca Dentist Dr. Carl Embury.