Mercury Fillings
Silver fillings contain 50% mercury content. Mercury can vaporize even after the filling has been placed, including when the filling is contacted by heat (hot foods and beverages), friction (chewing or grinding teeth), and when being removed.
The release of mercury vapor from amalgam fillings is a well studied topic, leading to a ban of amalgam fillings across Europe. In 2005, the World Health Organization reported that mercury exposure can impact multiple organ systems of the body, and in 2020 the FDA recommended against its use in high-risk individuals. In the event a mercury filling is to be removed, we follow proper safety protocols to minimize exposure for our team and patients.
Safe Mercury Removal in San Antonio, Texas
Our San Antonio dental practice follows the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol established by the IAOMT. These precautions are designed to reduce mercury exposure during the removal process and may include:
- Protective gowns and facial barriers
- Supplemental oxygen for clean air
- High- and low-volume evacuation systems
- Advanced air filtration and ionization
- Isolation techniques to minimize vapor and particle exposure
We believe careful preparation and proper safety protocols are important when removing mercury fillings.
To discuss these topics and more during your Wellness Exam, contact our office to make your initial visit.
FAQ:
Q: Are silver fillings really dangerous? My regular dentist says they are fine.
A: This is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer is nuanced. Scientific research demonstrates that dental mercury amalgam exposes patients to releases of mercury vapor, and mercury vapor is known to be released at higher rates during chewing, brushing, grinding, and drinking hot beverages. In 2020, the FDA recommended against amalgam use in high-risk groups including pregnant women, children, and people with kidney impairment. Many conventional dentists still consider them safe for the general population. We believe patients deserve to understand both sides of this conversation and make their own informed decision.
Q: Can I have all my mercury fillings removed at once?
A: In most cases, we recommend removing fillings in a staged approach rather than all at once. This reduces the overall mercury exposure load during the removal process and allows your body adequate time to recover between appointments. The number of sessions depends on how many fillings you have and their location. We will develop a personalized plan during your consultation.
Q: Do I need to detox after mercury filling removal?
A: We provide dietary and nutritional guidance as part of our protocol and can coordinate with integrative health providers when additional support is needed.
