Biocompatibility Testing – Beachwood, OH

What Do “Biocompatible” and “Bio-Inert” Mean?

When a material is biocompatible, it means that it can be integrated with the human body without any negative reactions occurring in the process. Bio-inert refers to materials that are non-reactive with body tissue and bone.

Unlike food allergies which can come and go and be properly managed, dental materials stay in the body for many years at a time. If you plan on having material placed, it should be confirmed ahead of time if it is biocompatible and bioinert.

 

Should I Get Tested?

Research has shown that placing foreign materials inside the body, particularly the mouth, can exacerbate symptoms already caused by pre-existing conditions. While everyone receiving dental materials should be tested for their biocompatibility, some individuals need it more than others. If you are or have been affected by any of the following conditions, it is highly recommended that you receive testing prior to treatment. They include:

• Autoimmune conditions or a weakened immune system
• Kidney disease
• Cancer
• Mercury poisoning
• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Poor liver function or blood circulation
• Any allergies or chemical sensitivities

Participating in the test only requires a small amount of blood in order to examine your antibodies. Once we know how your antibodies react, we will know exactly which materials are safe to use and which ones should be avoided at all costs.

 

The Health Benefits of Testing

Once you know which materials are safe to use, we can create a more catered treatment plan that utilizes the least immune-challenging materials available. The last thing we want to do is expose your body to materials that put additional stress on your immune system, and biocompatibility testing makes it possible. We can help you avoid:

• Failed dental restorations
• Systemic and gum inflammation
• Eczema and dermatitis
• Exacerbated symptoms related to autoimmune conditions

 

Which Materials Can Cause an Allergic Reaction?

There are several metals known for triggering negative reactions in patients, especially those who receive silver (amalgam) fillings. For example, gold, mercury, cobalt, chromium, nickel, tin, copper, platinum, beryllium and palladium all have the potential to become toxic in certain scenarios. While it is rare, titanium can also pose a risk to a very small percentage of the population and will be tested along with the more commonly used metals.