4 Key Facts About Amalgam Filling Removal

Do you have a damaged tooth that requires repair? Here’s why we recommend alternatives to mercury fillings, such as ceramic fillings. If you’re concerned about an existing amalgam filling, read on to learn about our mercury tooth filling removal protocol. 

Silver coloured fillings, also known as amalgam fillings, contain around 50% elemental mercury. Other components in these fillings include copper, tin, and silver. Because mercury is a known neurotoxin, the debate as to whether these mercury tooth fillings must be removed has become a subject of heated debate in recent years. 

In fact, exposure to large amounts of mercury has been linked to: 

• Parkinson’s disease
• Reproductive dysfunction 
• Multiple sclerosis 
• Autoimmune disorders and deficiencies 
• Thyroiditis 
• Alzheimer’s disease 

Traditional dentists may argue that while mercury is known to be toxic in vapor form, when placed in the mouth in a filling, it is stable, and therefore not hazardous. 

However, recent studies suggest that the mercury in the fillings is released whenever a person brushes their teeth or chews. Additionally, no filling lasts forever, and when amalgam fillings start to crack or break down, mercury is released into the body. 

High Quality Alternatives to Amalgam Fillings and Safe Mercury Removal in Calgary 

At Dr. Korol Dental Clinic, we believe that there are less toxic alternatives to amalgam fillings that can be used to replace lost tooth structure. Ceramic or composite fillings and restorations are safer and more biocompatible treatment options. 

When you opt to remove your mercury tooth filling and opt for alternatives, such as ceramic or composite fillings, you can have total peace of mind knowing that you’re doing what’s best for your total body health. 

Want to know more? 

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4 Things You Need to Know About Amalgam Fillings 

Dental amalgam has been commonly used for filling materials over the past 150 years. Over the decades, the material of these ‘silver fillings’ have raised some concerns because of one of the components - mercury. 

Here’s everything you need to know about amalgam fillings, their alternatives, and mercury tooth filling removals. 

1. What is an Amalgam Filling? 

Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals, consisting of mercury, silver, tin, and copper. Approximately 50% of the dental amalgam is mercury. Fillings using this material were once very common but are now being superseded by modern alternatives, such as ceramic or composite fillings 

2. What are the Health Effects of Mercury Exposure? 

Mercury is toxic to your central and peripheral nervous systems. It can influence your nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs and kidneys. This may result in behavioural and neurological disorders with symptoms such as insomnia, memory loss, headaches, neuromuscular effects, as well as cognitive and motor dysfunctions. 

3. How Does Dr. Korol Dental Clinic Handle Mercury Tooth Filling Removals? 

At Dr Korol Dental Clinic, we employ the Safe Mercury Filling Removal Protocol (SMART) to help lessen patient’s exposure to mercury while they’re having their fillings removed and replaced. Created by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, the SMART protocol employs key safety measures to protect patients, dentists, dental staff, and the environment from toxic mercury vapor. 

Before the Filling Removal 

• A rubber dam is used to prevent any mercury from being swallowed or inhaled. 
• The patient is given an external oxygen supply through a nasal cannula, so that they can have a clean breathing source throughout the treatment. 

During the Filling Removal 

• An aerosol vacuum is placed in close proximity to the operating field to help remove any mercury vapour. 
• The dentist uses a high speed suction system and a lot of water during the procedure. 
• The amalgam filling is removed by suctioning it into large chunks to reduce the dispersion of the amalgam particulates and aerosols. 
• An amalgam separator is installed and maintained to collect mercury waste to ensure it isn’t released into the environment. 

SAFE MERCURY REMOVAL 

4. Is It Painful To Remove Amalgam Fillings? 

The actual removal of the amalgam filling is similar to having a regular filling or cavity treated. Local anesthesia is used to ensure that there is no pain involved and you are as comfortable as possible. Typically, this appointment can last up to 90 minutes, after which you can return to your daily activities. 

Call Today

To find out more about our mercury removal services and how our Calgary holistic dentists can help you achieve total oral and body health, contact our Calgary dental clinic at 403-245-9099 or fill in our online contact form.