PART ONE THE SEVEN PART HOLISTIC DENTISTRY SERIES
In part 1 of this series, we’ll explain what exactly is in those silver fillings, how they may negatively affect your health, why you should consider removing them, and explore the ways that holistic dentistry is used to safely remove mercury or amalgam fillings.
Why We Do Not Use Mercury Fillings – A Brief History of Amalgam Fillings
1826. That was the year that mercury amalgam fillings were first used in teeth. Nearly 200 years ago.
Invented by a French dentist named Auguste Taveau in 1816, amalgam (from the French word “amalgame” which means an alloy or mixture of metals) was created to fill the cavitation in decayed teeth. The original alloy contained mercury and silver coins.
Amalgam fillings have been used in the US soon after, but not without controversy. In 1840, the American Society of Dental Surgeons required dentists to pledge not to use mercury amalgam fillings because of the safety concerns of mercury.
So is mercury dangerous? Well, according to the World Health Organization, “exposure to mercury – even small amounts – may cause serious health problems, and is a threat to the development of the child in utero and early in life.”
So, actually it is.
The mercury in amalgam fillings can vaporize and release into the body, which again according to the WHO “may have toxic effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes.”
So, is mercury a concern? Yes. Should you have it in your body? Probably not.
The fact is, much safer and mercury-free fillings have been around for over 50 years. These composites contain no mercury or other heavy metals, and do not pose a serious health risk. We’ll cover a few alternatives later, but first, let’s look at a few reasons you may want to consider removing them.
Should You Have Your Silver Fillings Removed?
This should be a question asked by anyone that has mercury or silver fillings. The choice is yours. Some people do not report any negative side effects as a result of having mercury amalgam fillings. But, some do. The information against using mercury is not exactly plentiful.
Do we know all we need to know about mercury? Is there a safe level of mercury that we can have in out mouth and experience to symptoms?
The answer is, yes – at least according to some dentists and organizations. Mercury amalgam fillings are still used to this day by thousands of dentists all over the world.
But, if you care about long-term health, then you might need to take a more proactive approach to care. Why take the risk of exposure, especially in such a sensitive area like the mouth? We don’t recommend it, despite what other experts may say.
Now, you may choose to get mercury amalgam fillings. After all, over 200 years of tradition is hard to argue with. But for us at Dental Arts and Wellness, we have decided to never use mercury, and instead opted for alternatives and composites.
So, should you have your silver fillings removed? That’s a question only you can answer. If you ask us, the answer is YES.
How We Remove Mercury amalgam of Silver Fillings
To safely remove mercury amalgam fillings, we employ a technique known as SMART Mercury Removal.
This program was developed to protect patients and staff from exposure to mercury as it is removed from the teeth.
The procedure involves the isolation of the filling, pure oxygen to help you breathe during the procedure and high-speed vacuums to ensure that no mercury vapor is released and exposure risk is virtually eliminated.
More About Our Mercury-Safe Removal Protocol
The comprehensive mercury-safe removal protocol to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficacy. Here’s an overview of the procedure:
1. Pre-Removal Preparation
Before starting the removal process, we conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s dental and health history. This helps us understand the extent of mercury exposure and tailor our approach accordingly. We also discuss any concerns or symptoms the patient may have, which allows us to address specific needs during the procedure.
2. Safety Measures During Removal
During the actual removal process, several safety measures are employed:
Isolating the Area: We use a rubber dam to isolate the tooth being treated, preventing the patient from ingesting or inhaling mercury particles.
High-Vacuum Suction: High-powered suction systems are used to capture any mercury vapors and particles, reducing the risk of exposure.
Water Spray: A constant stream of water is applied to keep the area cool and minimize mercury vaporization.
3. Post-Removal Care
After the removal of mercury amalgams, we take steps to ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and that any residual mercury is safely managed. We also provide patients with aftercare instructions to support healing and maintain oral health.
4. Environmentally Responsible Disposal
Proper disposal of mercury waste is a critical component of our protocol. We adhere to strict environmental guidelines to ensure that all mercury-containing materials are disposed of safely and responsibly, minimizing any environmental impact.
Benefits of Choosing Mercury-Safe Removal
Opting for mercury-safe removal offers numerous benefits beyond simply eliminating mercury from your teeth. Here’s some potential benefits:
Enhanced Overall Health
By removing mercury from your body, you reduce your body’s exposure to this toxic metal. This can lead to improved overall health, particularly for those who have experienced symptoms related to mercury toxicity.
Improved Dental Health
Mercury amalgam fillings can sometimes lead to issues such as tooth fractures or discoloration. Replacing these fillings with modern, biocompatible materials can enhance both the function and appearance of your teeth, contributing to better dental health.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that your mercury fillings have been removed safely and responsibly provides peace of mind. It allows you to move forward with a renewed focus on your health, free from concerns about mercury exposure.
Our Commitment To You
We hope at this point, that you have decided to do something about your silver fillings.
We highly recommend removing any and all mercury from your teeth. Alternatives exist that do not contain mercury or any other heavy metals, while also being incredibly durable, strong, and affordable.
At Dental Arts and Wellness, we are dedicated to providing this service with the highest standards of safety and care. By choosing our mercury-safe removal protocols, you are taking a significant step toward reducing mercury exposure and enhancing your dental and general health.
What You Should Do Next
To learn more about Mercury Safe Removal, click here. If you have mercury fillings and would like to find out more information on how to safely remove them, please call us at (503) 603-0700.
Want to learn more about holistic dentistry? Check out our entire series:
#1 – Mercury Safe Removal
#2 – NuCalm Relaxation Technology
#3 – Laser Dentistry
#4 – Peridontal Scaling and Root Planing
#5 – Ozone Dentistry
#6 – TMJ Pain Relief
#7 – Sleep Apnea Treatment
