Dayton area residents ask, “What is the protocol for safe amalgam filling removal?”

Mercury is a toxic element that was once very popular in dental restorations. In recent years, the potential health risks from exposure to mercury have been a hot topic in the medical and dental communities, and as a result, many patients are looking for options to have these restorations removed and replaced. At Alex Bell Dental, we specialize in the safe removal of mercury amalgam fillings for patients in Centerville, Dayton, and surrounding areas.

The process of removing amalgam fillings requires special training to ensure that patients and staff are not exposed to toxic and harmful mercury vapors. Some of the safety measures we take include the use of rubber dams, specialized air filtration, high volume of water, and a high-powered evacuation system.

About amalgam fillings

Mercury amalgam (or silver) fillings are actually composed of several different metals including silver, copper, zinc, and tin, but their largest content is mercury. Often the amalgam is composed of nearly 50 percent mercury.

One of the most common reasons patients seek amalgam removal is the diagnosis of mercury toxicity. Other reasons patients may seek to have them removed is to protect the teeth from long term structural damage which can occur as a result of amalgam fillings and lead to the need for root canals or even extraction.

Regardless of the reason, we follow the protocol for safe removal of amalgam fillings. It is essential to remove the fillings properly to ensure the safety of the patient and dental team.

Once the amalgam filling is removed, we can replace it with a biocompatible option. We use only biocompatible materials such as porcelain. Porcelain fillings are a natural-looking solution that are strong, durable and very closely blend in with natural teeth.

At Alex Bell Dental, we believe in the connection between the health of the mouth and body. As such, we know that the materials used in dental procedures can affect the patients’ entire wellbeing. If you are interested in learning more about our holistic approach to preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry or if you want to inquire about having your mercury amalgam restorations removed, contact our office for a consultation.