Amalgam Fillings: Are Your Teeth Toxic?

Amalgam or silver fillings are about half mercury, which is a neurotoxin. These fillings continuously release vapor into your body and can possibly lead to numerous health issues including heart disease, autoimmune diseases such as fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis, allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, and neurological problems including depression, anxiety, memory loss, and fine tremors. With the list of health concerns, many people opt to have their amalgam fillings removed.

According to the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), "Scientific research demonstrates that dental mercury amalgam exposes dental professionals, dental staff, dental patients, and fetuses to releases of mercury vapor, mercury-containing particulate, and/or other forms of mercury contamination. Furthermore, mercury vapor is known to be released from dental mercury amalgam fillings at higher rates during brushing, cleaning, clenching of teeth, chewing, etc., and mercury is also known to be released during the placement, replacement, and removal of dental mercury amalgam fillings. Essentially, an unsafe amalgam removal process releases mercury vapor and particles that can be harmful to the patient, the dentist, the dental staff, and the environment."

We, at Social Circle Dental, are highly experienced with the safe removal and disposal of amalgam fillings. We follows strict protocols set by the IAOMT to ensure safety for our patients, our team, and our environment. We take many precautions to prevent mercury from escaping during the removal of an amalgam filling. We wear protective garments during the procedure and utilize high volume suction and mercury filters to minimize mercury release into the air. To remove mercury vapor and particulates from the immediate environment, we use air purifiers. By safely disposing of mercury, we protect the landfills, plants, water supply, and fish.

There are also several other reasons patients may wish to have their amalgam fillings removed. Over time, their fillings may have become worn down, they may not like the appearance of the fillings when they smile, and in some cases, patients may develop allergic reactions to the metals found in amalgam.

At Social Circle Dental, your health is our top priority. As a holistic dental practice, we do all we can to educate patients about the potential dangers of amalgam fillings. Instead of these fillings, we offer tooth-colored composite resin fillings. Composite resin is a biocompatible material that chemically bonds with teeth. The material is strong, durable and blends beautifully with the smile.

If you would like to explore an alternative to amalgam fillings or have your silver fillings safely removed, call our team at (770) 464-1900 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jones. Our dentist has been treating patients for more than 35 years. He listens to patients and provides treatments with their overall health and wellbeing in mind. At Social Circle Dental, we will take good care of you.
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