Safe Mercury Filling Removal
If you have amalgam metal fillings, the Cleveland Smile Center team would like to invite you to visit our office for a mercury removal consultation to discuss safely removing your old filling(s).
You may not be aware that research shows that these metal fillings are actually not good for your teeth or the health of your whole body.
Every amalgam filling combines a large amount of mercury, which is highly toxic when it vaporizes. That makes mercury difficult to remove safely.
Why should I get my amalgam fillings replaced?
You might consider replacing your amalgam dental fillings for several reasons:
- Cracks or Leaks: Over time, amalgam can expand and contract, potentially causing cracks in your tooth or allowing bacteria to seep in.
- Aesthetics: Amalgam fillings are silver-colored and more noticeable, while composite (tooth-colored) fillings blend naturally with your smile.
- Mercury Concerns: Amalgam contains mercury, which some people prefer to avoid due to health or environmental concerns—even though the FDA deems it generally safe.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Rarely, some individuals may have sensitivity or allergic reactions to metals in amalgam.
- Holistic Preference: If you’re pursuing a more natural or holistic dental approach, you may choose to replace metal fillings with biocompatible materials.
Consult with our team of dentists to determine if replacement is necessary for health reasons or simply a cosmetic upgrade.
Other Types of Holistic Dentistry Offered
In our state-of-the-art offices including Aurora, Cuyahoga Falls, Bedford / Oakwood and Westlake offices, we’re dedicated to providing holistic and biological dentistry that keeps your whole body health in mind as we create every treatment plan.
Questions Our Patients Ask
Q: Should I worry about old silver fillings?
A: If you have had silver fillings, also called amalgam fillings, for many years, it may be worth having them evaluated by your dentist. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, and they can wear down, loosen, crack, or create small gaps around the tooth over time.
That does not mean every silver filling needs to be removed immediately. At Cleveland Smile Center, we evaluate the age, condition, fit, and stability of your fillings before recommending treatment. If removal or replacement makes sense, we will explain your options clearly.
Q: What is mercury filling removal?
A: Mercury filling removal is the process of removing old amalgam fillings and replacing them with a modern dental material. Many patients choose to replace silver fillings because they are worn, cracked, leaking, unattractive, or because they prefer a mercury-free dentist or more holistic dental approach.
Cleveland Smile Center offers amalgam filling removal and replacement with tooth-colored materials that blend naturally with your smile.
Q: Is mercury filling removal safe?
A: Cleveland Smile Center takes a careful, protective approach to safe mercury filling removal. Because amalgam fillings can release mercury vapor and particles during removal, we use safety protocols designed to help reduce exposure during the procedure.
These precautions may include protective barriers, specialized suction, isolation of the treatment area, and air filtration. The goal is to remove the old filling as safely and comfortably as possible while protecting you and our dental team.
Q: What do you replace silver fillings with?
A: Old silver fillings are typically replaced with tooth-colored fillings made from composite resin or other biocompatible dental materials. At Cleveland Smile Center, we offer BPA-free and metal-free filling options for patients who prefer a more natural-looking and mercury-free restoration.
Tooth-colored fillings are shade-matched to your smile, so they are much less noticeable than silver fillings. They also bond directly to the tooth structure to restore strength and function.
Q: How do I know if it is time to replace my silver fillings?
A: You may need silver filling replacement if your old fillings are cracked, loose, worn down, leaking, or causing tooth sensitivity. Some patients also choose to replace amalgam fillings for cosmetic reasons or because they prefer mercury-free dental materials.
During your visit, your dentist will look at your dental history, current symptoms, X-rays, and the condition of each filling. We do not recommend unnecessary removal. The decision should be based on your tooth structure, oral health, and personal health goals.
Q: What should I expect during amalgam filling removal?
A: During amalgam filling removal, your dentist will numb the area, isolate the tooth, and use protective measures to help reduce mercury exposure. The old silver filling is removed carefully, and the tooth is cleaned and restored with a tooth-colored filling or another appropriate restoration.
The procedure may take longer than a standard filling because additional precautions are used. Most patients find the process manageable, and our team will explain each step before treatment begins.
Have a question? Reach out to us!