The Future of Dentistry: Our Mercury-Free Clinic Promise
Various metals gained popularity during the 19th century for filling cavities. Amalgam fillings have been used in dentistry for decades due to their durability and affordability. However, research has shown that mercury vapor can be released from these fillings during placement, removal, and chewing. This vapor can potentially be inhaled and absorbed by the lungs, leading to mercury toxicity. Mercury fillings are made from liquid mercury, the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, combined with powdered silver, copper, and tin. The mercury binds everything together into a firm filling.
Mercury is a neurotoxin. There is a growing body of evidence linking mercury exposure to various health issues, especially with long-term exposure, including neurological disorders, kidney problems, and developmental delays, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, children, and patients with certain health conditions. There is ongoing debate about how much mercury can affect teeth and the mouth. Each amalgam filling contains 50% mercury and leaches into your body 24/7, toxifying it. Because of mercury’s potential harmful effects, we do not place amalgam fillings in our office. Safe removal is also essential to reduce potential harm. We offer mercury amalgam removal protocols for patients who choose to replace their amalgam fillings due to concerns about mercury exposure or biocompatibility. These protocols aim to minimize mercury exposure during removal and ensure proper disposal of amalgam waste.
Some people may have allergic reactions to the metals used in amalgam fillings, such as mercury, silver, tin, and copper. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may include symptoms like skin rashes, oral lesions, or other allergic responses. Amalgam fillings are silver in color, which can be aesthetically displeasing, particularly in visible areas of the mouth. Many patients opt for tooth-colored composite fillings for a more natural appearance. Over time, amalgam fillings may expand and contract with temperature changes in the mouth, potentially leading to cracks or fractures in the tooth. This can compromise the tooth’s integrity and increase the risk of decay or other dental issues.
People at the most significant risk of adverse effects include:
- People with known sensitivity to mercury, silver, copper, or tin
- Children, especially those under the age of 6
- Pregnant women and their developing fetuses
- Women planning to become pregnant
- Nursing women and their infants
- People with impaired kidney function
- People with pre-existing neurological disease
Mercury-free dental practices have gained significant attention in recent years due to growing concerns about the potential health risks of mercury exposure. As a result, many patients seek mercury-free alternatives for their dental care to minimize the risk of exposure and safeguard their overall health. That’s why we specialize in safe amalgam removal services at Alpha Plus Dental Center and practice mercury-free dentistry. Dental technology has advanced significantly, providing alternatives to traditional mercury-containing amalgam fillings. Since our focus is total wellness dentistry, we only use materials and techniques that benefit your health. For example, mercury-free alternatives such as composite resin fillings offer comparable durability and aesthetics to traditional amalgam fillings without the associated health risks. We emphasize patient education and empowerment, providing information about the potential dangers of mercury exposure and the benefits of mercury-free dental treatments.
The importance of mercury-free dental practices cannot be overstated. Dental amalgam waste can contribute to environmental mercury pollution, posing risks to ecosystems and potentially entering the food chain. Some countries and regions have implemented regulations or restrictions on the use of mercury in dentistry due to environmental and health concerns. These regulations drive the adoption of mercury-free practices and encourage the development of alternative materials. For example, mercury dental fillings will be banned in the EU in 2025. This will inspire people from other regions of the world to be more selective about the materials they allow in their bodies and choose only those compatible with our biology. Mercury pollution from dental amalgam waste is a significant environmental concern. When removed from teeth or disposed of improperly, dental amalgam can contribute to mercury contamination in waterways and ecosystems. Mercury-free dentistry helps reduce this environmental impact. The shift towards mercury-free dentistry aligns with broader trends towards more sustainable and health-conscious practices in healthcare and beyond. By prioritizing mercury-free alternatives and implementing stringent safety protocols, we ensure the well-being of our patients and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Please call Alpha Plus Dental at (617) 274-8494 to learn more about our safe amalgam removal services and mercury-free dentistry, and schedule your consultation with the best dentists in Brookline, MA!
