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Safe amalgam filling removal in the Melbourne area

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Dental amalgam is often called by the innocent-sounding name of “silver.” In fact, that refers to the colour, not the type of metal. Amalgam is an alloy, made of about 50 percent mercury and a mixture of metals. Many patients say they were unaware of this fact when their fillings were placed, and now they want the amalgam removed. Others object to the colour, which tends to blacken over time. It is possible to remove these fillings safely and effectively, but a specific protocol is needed.

Amalgam Removal from dentist in Melbourne

Our practice is mercury free, which means that we do not use amalgam or any other product containing mercury. We also offer mercury safe dentistry, which refers to the specific technique used for amalgam filling removal. This is important because heat causes amalgam to release mercury vapour. As you probably know, the traditional method of drilling out a filling causes considerable heat. It also causes dust, fine particles which the patient may inhale or swallow. Unfortunately, this very technique is used around the world, so patients must be vigilant when choosing a dentist.

We are a proud member of IAOMT, and adhere to the protocols and methodology that they have developed. To begin with, a different technique is used. Rather than grinding with a drill, the filling is removed in as few pieces as possible and steps are taken to keep the working temperature low. This reduces the amount of vapour and particulate matter that is released, but does not eliminate it. Therefore, measures are taken to protect the patient and dental staff. Suction is used to capture particulates and vapour, while advanced filtering prevents them from re-entering the air. Protective physical barriers prevent the absorption of mercury through skin contact, and keep it from entering your throat to be subsequently swallowed. A supplemental oxygen supply is used to ensure that you breathe clean, pure oxygen while the amalgam is removed. Once the filling is removed, we will replace it with a beautiful, metal-free, and more compatible filling, crown, or other restoration.

If you want to get the amalgam out of your mouth safely, call us at and arrange an appointment. We have two state of the art offices, conveniently accessible throughout Melbourne and surrounding communities. Please call 03 8001 6021 to reach our Sunbury office, or 03 8400 4104 to reach our Moonee Ponds office.

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Safe Amalgam Removal Protocol

  • Chlorella drink prior is given prior to treatment and a mouth rinse post-treatment. Chlorella can help bind and prevent mercury absorption.
  • Physical protective barriers - Masks, protective coverings, eyewear, in-mouth non-latex dental dams, and other steps are taken to prevent physical contact with mercury for the patient and staff.
  • Oral evacuation - Generous amounts of water are used to continuously rinse particulate matter from the mouth while suctioning it away. Combined with protective dental dams, this prevents patients from swallowing dental amalgam particles during treatment. Additionally, the rinsing helps lower the temperature of the filling, reducing the amount of mercury vapour released.
  • External air - A continuous supply of non-contaminated air or oxygen is delivered via a mask or similar apparatus, preventing inhalation of mercury vapour or particles.
  • "Chunk it out" method - Rather than using a drill to grind the filling down, it is carefully removed in the largest possible pieces, minimising friction, vaporisation.
  • High Volume Evacuation Suction is used by the dental assistant to remove amalgam particles in the mouth.
  • High Volume Air suction and Air Purifiers are used in the clinical room that is able to remove mercury vapour from the room.
  • Amalgam separator use - This device collects mercury-contaminated waste before it can enter the sewage system, allowing us to dispose of it safely.