How to Safely Remove Amalgam (Silver) Fillings

There are several reasons patients request amalgam filling removal. They range from cosmetic to health reasons. When patients want the silver fillings removed and disposed of safely, they can visit Social Circle Dental. With Dr. Jones, they are in skilled and gentle hands for every step of the procedure. Dr. Jones will explain the reasons patients ask him to remove amalgam fillings. 

Why patients want amalgam fillings removed
Tooth damage and esthetics are common reasons patients ask Dr. Jones to remove amalgam fillings. Since amalgam is composed of about half mercury and other metals, Dr. Jones will safely remove and replace them with biocompatible materials. Constant chewing adds pressure to the teeth. Habits such as grinding and clenching the teeth can wear them down. Eventually, the teeth may chip and crack. If the teeth become damaged, Dr. Jones can restore them before other issues develop. Patients also turn to Dr. Jones for cosmetic reasons. The silver appearance of the fillings may be bothersome when smiling. 

Where patients can count on safe dental care
Dr. Jones operates a mercury free and mercury safe dental practice, which means he keeps the potential danger of amalgam out of his office and has the training to remove safely and dispose of amalgam. He has training from the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, which includes following a strict protocol for the safe removal and disposal of amalgam. The removal of an amalgam filling involves taking many measures to protect the patient, dentist, and staff. We wear protective garments and non-latex gloves during the procedure. A rubber dam or a similar material called Isolite is used to isolate the tooth. We administer oxygen through a comfortable nasal mask and utilize a high volume suction vacuum with mercury filters. We use in-office air purifiers to remove mercury particulates from the immediate environment.


Mercury can pose a danger to people as well as the environment. At Social Circle Dental, we take the appropriate precautions to ensure safe and effective amalgam filling removal. Do you want to explore the treatment? If so, call 770-464-1900 today.

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