I have been patch tested positive for allergies in multiple dental allergies. I’ve also been diagnosed with TILT, which means I have chemical sensitivities as well. We know I’m allergic to dental cement, formaldehyde, cobalt, chromium, titanium, nickel, as well as many chemicals. Several years ago, I had a root canal done with the dentist broke the file in my tooth. The dentist was unable to remove the file so I went to an endodontist. He wasn’t able to get it from the top, but did get it by cutting through the bottom. The root canal has never quite felt right, but recently has been causing me pain. I saw a dentist who said there is an infection. At this point I want the tooth pulled and replaced, as well as the infection cultured for the appropriate antibiotic. How do I go about finding a dentist who is knowledgeable on Type IV metal allergies?
Laura
Dear Laura,
You are in a difficult position. I don’t think you will need a dentist who his knowledgeable about your specific allergies. That would be like finding a unicorn. What you need is a dentist who is willing to work with you on the materials you’ve tested allergic to. You should know that most dentists find those tests controversial, especially the Clifford’s test you had done. However, there are a group of dentists who are more willing to work with patients on those sort of things than others. You might have better success with a mercury free dentist or a holistic dentist.
You won’t need to have the infection cultured because extracting the tooth will remove the infection. It is unlikely you would even need an antibiotic. As for tooth replacements, especially in your situation, I would recommend a zirconia dental implant. They are metal-free and strong enough to deal with the biting forces of even back teeth.
I’m sorry you have had to deal with this. I know some people with metal allergies and they have a hard time even finding clothes they need sometimes because of metal in the closures.
This blog is brought to you by Hilton Head Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.
