The Dangers of Amalgam Fillings
For many years, silver amalgam fillings were the go-to solution for repairing cavities. If you’ve ever had a cavity filled more than 10 or 15 years ago, there’s a good chance you still have an amalgam filling in your mouth today. At first glance, these fillings may seem harmless—just a silver patch repairing your tooth. But what many patients don’t realize is that amalgam fillings are made up of about 50% mercury, a toxic substance that poses risks to both your health and the environment.
At Janssen Dental Clinic, we take a whole-body approach to dentistry, and mercury simply doesn’t align with our philosophy of protecting your health in every possible way. That’s why we’ve chosen to be a mercury-free practice. Here’s why amalgam fillings are a concern and how we safely help patients transition away from them.
The Dangers of Amalgam Fillings
Amalgam fillings have been used for decades because they are inexpensive and durable. But the main component—mercury—is a known neurotoxin. Even though the filling is stable when first placed, over time it can release small amounts of mercury vapor, especially when chewing, grinding teeth, or drinking hot beverages.
Research has shown that continuous exposure to mercury vapors, even in small amounts, may affect the brain, kidneys, and immune system. Some patients experience chronic health symptoms they cannot explain, and mercury exposure is suspected to be a contributing factor in certain cases.
Beyond the impact on individual health, amalgam fillings also raise environmental concerns. When old fillings are removed or when they eventually enter the environment, mercury waste can contaminate water supplies and the air. For us, that’s reason enough to step away from mercury use entirely and to offer safer alternatives for our patients.
Why Safe Removal Matters
If you already have amalgam fillings, you may be wondering: is it dangerous to remove them? The truth is that removing these fillings improperly can actually cause more mercury exposure than leaving them in place. That’s why it’s essential to work with a dentist trained in safe removal protocols.
At our clinic, we follow the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) guidelines developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This protocol is designed to protect you, our team, and the environment during the removal process.
Here are some of the key safety steps we take:
We use special filtration and air purification systems to capture mercury vapors.
Protective barriers are placed for both patient and staff to minimize contact with particles.
A rubber dam and high-volume suction are used to isolate the tooth and capture mercury debris.
Patients are provided with clean oxygen through a nasal mask to avoid inhaling any vapors.
Removed material is safely collected and disposed of according to environmental guidelines.
By following this meticulous process, we ensure that patients can replace their amalgam fillings without unnecessary risk.
Amalgam vs. Tooth-Colored Fillings
So, what are the alternatives? Today, we use tooth-colored filling materials such as composite resins and ceramic. These options are not only mercury-free, but they also come with a variety of benefits compared to traditional silver fillings.
Appearance: Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile or speak. Amalgam fillings, on the other hand, are dark and easily noticeable.
Biocompatibility: Modern filling materials are more compatible with the body and do not carry the same toxicity risks as mercury.
Durability: Advances in dental technology have made composite and ceramic fillings strong and long-lasting, able to withstand daily chewing forces.
Tooth preservation: Tooth-colored fillings often require less drilling, which means we can preserve more of your healthy, natural tooth structure.
Peace of mind: Choosing mercury-free dentistry provides reassurance that your fillings are not releasing harmful substances into your body.
For patients who are already seeking a healthier lifestyle or who have concerns about the materials used in their dental care, tooth-colored fillings are a natural choice.
Our Commitment to Whole-Body Health
At Janssen Dental Clinic, we believe that dentistry should go beyond fixing teeth—it should support your overall wellness. That’s why we have chosen to be a mercury-free practice and why we follow the most stringent safety standards when removing amalgam fillings.
If you currently have silver fillings and are interested in learning more about safe removal or replacing them with healthier alternatives, we would be happy to guide you through the process. Our goal is to give you not only a healthier smile but also peace of mind, knowing your dental care is aligned with your total health.
About Janssen Dental Clinic in Green Bay, Wisconsin
Janssen Dental Clinic features the dental expertise of Dr. Craig Janssen, a third-generation dentist serving patients in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and the surrounding area. Dr. Craig and his staff specialize in oral health as a component of overall well-being, a philosophy of care known as biological dentistry. They have expertise in reducing the fear and anxiety that people of all ages feel over going to the dentist, with services ranging from routine cleanings to restorative and cosmetic procedures. Call (920) 983-8383 to schedule an appointment. New patients are always welcome.