What are Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings, commonly referred to as “silver fillings,” consist of 50% elemental mercury and a powdered alloy. Over time, these fillings can release mercury vapor, potentially posing health risks, particularly to the nervous system. Individuals who may be at higher risk, such as pregnant women and children, as well as those with concerns about mercury exposure, can consider exploring alternative dental materials. It’s advisable to seek guidance from a qualified dental professional, such as Dr. Maya Georges Assi, who can provide personalized advice and discuss alternative options to ensure the best dental care for you.
The Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART)
Mercury vapor is known to be released from dental mercury amalgam fillings at higher rates during brushing, cleaning, clenching of teeth, chewing, etc. It’s also released during placement, replacement, and mercury filling removal. As such, the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Technology (IAOMT) developed a training course for IAOMT dentists to become certified in SMART. Dr. Maya Georges Assi is certified by the IAOMT and follows this strict protocol for amalgam fillings removal in Coral Springs, FL.
- A breathing mask delivers a clean air supply and filters out all mercury particles
- A non-latex nitrile material dam is used to isolate teeth from the rest of your mouth to prevent
- Two specialized suction devices are used to collect larger pieces of mercury and direct the vapor straight to an air filter
- You and our entire dental team are properly protected with gowns, covers, etc.
- We give you a slurry of activated charcoal, chlorella, or a similar adsorbent to rinse and swallow prior to mercury filling removal (unless clinically contraindicated) and afterward
- The amalgam is sectioned into chunks and removed in as large pieces as possible using a small-diameter carbide drill
- People with known heightened sensitivity (allergy) to any components in dental amalgam
The Benefits of SMART Mercury Filling Removal
- Prevents further exposure to mercury and potential side effects
- Composite fillings offer more pleasing aesthetics
- Protects your mouth and body from harmful chemicals
- Protects the environment from mercury toxins
The Potential Dangers of Mercury Fillings
A growing consensus acknowledges that dental amalgam contributes to the overall environmental load of mercury toxicity, so efforts to limit and reduce its impacts are appropriate. Today, many dentists in the U.S., Canada, and other countries feel adequate sound scientific evidence supports eliminating amalgam as a filling material. According to the FDA, exposure to mercury may pose a greater health risk in the following groups:
- Pregnant women and their developing fetuses
- Women planning to get pregnant
- Nursing women and their newborns and infants
- Children, especially those younger than age 6
- People with pre-existing neurological diseases
- Individuals with impaired kidney function
- People with known heightened sensitivity (allergy) to any components in dental amalgam
Mercury-Free Dentistry is a Personal Choice
Tooth decay, caused by factors like bacteria, poor oral hygiene, and sugary consumption, often goes untreated. Untreated cavities can lead to pain, infection, difficulty eating, speaking, and hinder learning in children. Severe decay can result in tooth loss and the need for extensive restorations. At Alpha Dental Practice & Implant Center in Coral Springs, FL, we provide safe mercury filling removal for patients who opt for this choice. We follow strict protocols for amalgam removal, believe in biological dentistry, and offer composite resin as an optimal alternative. Ultimately, the decision for mercury filling removal is left to the patient after discussing the pros and cons.
Considering Removing Old Failing Amalgam Fillings?
Schedule a visit to discuss silver filling removals today.
