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The metals in the middle of the periodic table are called transition metals. As the name suggests, they are unstable and bind to enzymes and cell proteins. Most of the metals used in dental restorations such as titanium, chromium, nickel, gold and mercury are transition metals. For most people, the new structure which is the consequence of such binding will not cause any problems. In genetically susceptible people, the new structure will activate the immune system and might lead to allergy and autoimmunity.
Theoretically, all metals can be tested in MELISA®, but certain metals are more frequently inducing allergy than others. Also, we are more frequently exposed to certain metals, mainly nickel, from food and jewelry, and mercury, from amalgam fillings and polluted fish.
Usually, laboratories offer panels of selected metals to suit the dental history of the patient, for example if they only have amalgam fillings or both amalgam and gold.
If you have been occupationally exposed to a metals which is not tested routinely, please contact us and we will try to arrange it.
Click here to learn about selecting metals for testing. |
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