MELISA Test for Titanium Hypersensitivity
Dental implants have evolved in the last 30 years into a very successful option for those who are missing teeth. In the world of dental implants, there are literally hundreds from which to choose. It is very important that the choice is made for a high-quality dental implant. This means a dental implant that is free of cheap alloy metals. Cheaper metals often can create a sensitivity reaction, such as redness and swelling at the sight of where the metal is placed. Many women can relate to this by wearing inexpensive or costume jewelry. This jewelry typically has a high nickel content. Many people are sensitive to nickel, so wearing the jewelry results in a reaction.
A common question asked of patients is that of metal hypersensitivity. The dental implants used at Origin Dental Wellness are of the highest quality available on the market, with no cheap alloy metals. They are primarily titanium. Titanium is a widely used metal in medical implant therapy, including hip and knee replacements. However, we do recognize that a small percentage of people do have a sensitivity or allergy to titanium. For this reason, if a patient is ever concerned, we recommend that they obtain a MELISA test from their physician. A MELISA test is a blood test to determine hypersensitivity to metals. Once the test result is discovered, it gives the patient confidence to move forward with the titanium dental implant, or know that another option such as a fixed bridge might be a better choice.