Mercury Free Dentistry

Amalgam has long been the material of choice for dental fillings. These fillings are comprised of a combination of metals, which are bonded by mercury. Each amalgam filling is approximately 50 per cent mercury. There are many dentists who find no problem with amalgam fillings. Based on research findings, we do not agree.

Amalgam is not environmentally friendly

Amalgam releases toxins into the environment by way of water, air, and land. During dental treatments, amalgam particles are exposed of in the water supply. Mercury vapours from this material are released during treatment, exposing both patients and the dental staff to toxins. These vapours are also emitted in regular respiration, and are breathed in by the person with the filling. Residual amalgam reaches our soil in landfills.

Amalgam Fillign Infographic

It has been said that the mercury contained in dental fillings is “the safe form”. However, once released into the environment, dental mercury is able to convert to methylmercury, the more toxic form. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has stated that environmental mercury is dangerous, linked to neurological problems, especially in children and unborn babies. Major dental organisations, however, continue to stand behind this substance.

Amalgam poses health concerns

Even when implanted into a cavity filling, mercury vapours are emitted by the amalgam substance. Released in this form, mercury becomes bio accumulative, which means mercury levels build up in the body. These levels can even accumulate in fetuses, as mercury crosses the placenta into the womb. The health risks of mercury in amalgam reach every person, but especially fetuses, children, nursing infants, and those with kidney deficiencies. The U.S. FDA even concedes that there are neurotoxic effects with mercury vapour, and that children are especially vulnerable due to their developing systems.

Amalgam damages teeth

When an amalgam restoration is placed, it require the removal of more healthy tooth structure than if other materials were used. The extensive removal of tooth structure, though necessary for amalgam to fit, actually weakens the tooth. Amalgam also expands and contracts with varying temperatures. This process, over time, leads to fractures in teeth that require additional dental work.

Amalgam is not the only choice

Today, there are a number of materials that can be used for dental restorations instead of amalgam. Alternative materials include composite resin, glass ionomers, and even ceramic. The development of these materials makes it unnecessary to use amalgam in any dental situation.

Your smile really is a sign of health and vitality. Protect your wellbeing with amalgam alternatives.

Contact Smile in Style in Sunbury or Moonee Ponds for your holistic dental experience.

Smile In Style Dental office near Moonee Ponds and Sunbury

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Throughout our site, you will find valuable information about our services that will help you get to know us better. It is our mission to create beautiful white healthy smiles using the latest technologies. Our experienced Dentists and staff aim for lifelong relationships with our patients, providing relevant dental education and continual care throughout life. Here, you can learn more about the various dental conditions that may develop and the ways in which we treat them.
Some of the services you can expect to find at Smile in Style include: Our goal is to work together with you to achieve your healthiest, most attractive smile, whilst ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.

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.