The demand for natural dentistry is increasing as patients are becoming more aware of the highly integrated nature of the human body, often overlooked by traditional dentistry. Also referred to as holistic dentistry, natural dentistry focuses on nontoxic, noninvasive dental care that supports the body’s processes as much as possible.
Mercury-free dentistry is dental care that completely avoids use of silver or mercury amalgams in patient care, out of concern for the mercury exposure that occurs from such treatments.
What is Mercury?
Mercury is a metal that occurs naturally on earth. It is known to be highly toxic to humans, as it is destructive to many bodily processes, it accumulates in the body, and it is difficult to detox from. Prolonged exposure to mercury can contribute to a myriad of health problems, including neurological, kidney, and lung damage. The amount of mercury exposure required to notice negative effects varies significantly from one person to another, but there is no known safety threshold to mercury that does not cause some damage to the human tissue. Research continues to reveal more about the potential repercussions of mercury exposure.
What Dental Treatments Contain Mercury?
Silver “amalgam” fillings are the one notorious dental treatment that contains mercury. Not too long ago, gold alloys and cost-effective silver-colored fillings were the two available options for fillings. Silver amalgam fillings are still very prevalent today, but what most people do not know is that all “silver-colored” dental fillings contain roughly 50% mercury, in addition to silver, tin, and copper. Mercury vapor and particulate associated with these fillings is considered highly toxic anywhere outside the mouth and is a regulated dental hazardous material. While conventional dentistry often promotes these fillings as stable and safe once in the mouth, holistic dentistry avoids this potential toxic exposure altogether.
Mercury-Free Alternatives
Today, composite resin that is molded to the shape of your tooth is largely considered the filling material of choice in dentistry. These tooth-colored fillings are mercury-free, and they closely mimic the materials properties of natural tooth structure while providing a more natural appearance. Composite resins are much more technique-sensitive to place than metal fillings and require the care and attention of a skilled dentist.
Benefits of Mercury-Free Dentistry
- Non-toxic. Mercury-free dentistry eliminates the risk of mercury exposure, making treatment safer and more natural.
- Natural appearance. Composite fillings are customized to match the color of your existing teeth for a more natural appearance than metal fillings.
- Decreased risk of damage. Metal fillings expand and contract with changes in temperature, which gradually weakens enamel and leads to cracked teeth. Composite fillings do not pose the same risk, preserving the structural integrity of the tooth.
- Improved health. Some patients experience a reduction in symptoms after the removal of metal fillings. Once the mercury is removed, the related symptoms often subside.
Safe Removal of Metal Fillings
If you still have metal fillings in some of your teeth, it is possible to have them removed and replaced with composite. Careful use of protective barriers and evacuation systems, such as with the SMART protocol, will help to significantly reduce your exposure to mercury in the process of removal. A certified holistic dentist is trained to determine whether you are a candidate for the SMART method. If you are concerned about mercury toxicity, it is highly recommended that you also work with an integrative physician who is knowledgeable in testing and detox from mercury to achieve the best health outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mercury-Free Dentistry
Should I have all of my metal fillings replaced?
The decision to replace metal fillings with composite is something you and your dentist should discuss together. The potential for mercury exposure during removal may be higher, but the risk of prolonged exposure by leaving them in place is also a factor.
Are there other dental treatments that contain mercury?
Other metals used in dentistry do not contain mercury. Titanium, chromium alloys, and gold alloys are common, but are mercury-free.
Apollonia Dental Wellness provides mercury-free options as part of our natural dentistry services. We believe there is a strong connection between oral health and general wellness and strive to offer safe, non-toxic treatment options. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.