Oral health (the mouth's health) is vitally important to your body's health and vica versa. Teeth cavities, as well as periodontal disease (gum disease), are a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses and the build up of toxins. Periodontal disease has been officially linked to heart disease. It is conceivable it may be linked to other degenerative diseases as well.

It is essential amalgam filling material is not used in the repair of cavities. Amalgam fillings constantly emit mercury vapour and release elemental mercury into the body's systems. This is extraordinarily dangerous to our health. Mercury enters all cell types of the human body. It concentrates moreso in the brain, kidneys and the liver. Some of the mercury converts to methyl mercury, an even more toxic substance than mercury itself.

Not only is mercury the most toxic of materials, it is an allergen to which a high percentage of humans react. It can cause symptoms of which the causes are often mistaken for other maladies.

The alternative filling and crown materials can also be toxic and/or an allergen to humans. Nickel, beryllium and cadmium are other elements utilized in dental repair. Anyone having allergies should first be tested for tolerance with each of the repair materials contemplated.

In order to navigate through the maze of toxins and allergens, it is recommended that:
a. you visit a dentist who does not use amalgam;

b. if you have allergies, you should be initially tested for tolerance and/or reactions to the filling materials your dentist is proposing you use. This should be the first step in any course of dental treatment;

c. should you decide to have existing amalgam fillings removed, the procedure should be performed according to the protocol presented by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and the Holistic Dental Association.

d. it should be noted that mouth lesions and cancers can occur in any soft tissue areas and/or in the mouth bones including the nose, sinuses, eyes and ears. All these areas are connected and interconnected to the brain by way of blood vessels and nerves. These areas should be included in your regular checkups;

e. should you be experiencing gum disease, a bone density test should be considered for osteoporosis. Should you be of ill health, such a test is advisable.

To maintain good health, a properly balanced diet is an absolute requirement. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably raw or lightly steamed is most important. Meats should be lean and be mostly the many varied types of fish. Refined sugar and its various forms should be avoided as much as possible. There are many healthy alternatives; the most well known being honey.

Even with the use of the best natural foods, diets should be supplemented with the highest quality potency guaranteed vitamins and mineral products. It has been documented that our fresh foods do not have the level of nutrients that they once had, even twenty years ago. Without these, the human body will not function in the proper manner.

So fortifying the body with a good quality, nutritional supplement is important. Personally, I use USANA, because I am very impressed by the quality.

Of course, being overweight, having Type I or II diabetes, any degenerative disease (heart disease, cancer, stroke, arthritis – rheumatoid or osteo) or any glandular issues, such dietary recommendations are paramount in navigating the road to normal health.

One final thought: seek out that physician, either a medical doctor or a naturopathic physician, who is willing to treat you utilizing the best of both worlds – natural alternative methods, combined with traditional therapies, when required.

Dr. Rex Fortescue is a retired Vancouver dentist, leaving a lengthy practice. Rex and his dearly missed wife, Betty, have been long-time members of HANS. Dr Fortescue advocates for mercury-free dentistry.

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