Safe and Healthy Fillings for Your Smile
Traditionally, silver amalgam fillings were the most common type of dental filling used in the United States. While many people received these fillings, their safety has come into question due to the high mercury content.
At CopperMine Dental Studio, we offer mercury-free dentistry to patients in Sahuarita, AZ, and nearby communities. We provide safer alternatives for dental fillings and other restorative treatments that ensure both your oral health and overall well-being are protected.
Mercury in Traditional Dental Fillings
For over a century, the most common material for dental fillings was silver amalgam, with more than 100 million Americans getting silver amalgam fillings. One would hope that something so common (and which is still used by 47 percent of dentists) would be completely safe. Unfortunately, these fillings contain about 50 percent mercury, and there is no known safe level of mercury exposure.
Amalgam fillings have actually been banned in countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark because of their proven toxic effects. Despite this, mercury-based fillings are still used in many places, exposing individuals to risks over time.
Dentistry Minus the Mercury
If you have a silver filling, the simple act of chewing your food releases between 2 and 20 micrograms of mercury into your body per day, and it’s even higher for people who regularly chew gum, drink soda, or grind their teeth.
Over time, this can cause problems like:
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Nerve damage
- Respiratory failure
- Kidney problems
While dental fillings have long been essential for tooth restoration, there’s no need to risk mercury exposure. With mercury-free fillings, you can safeguard your health while still protecting your teeth from further damage.
Safe, Effective Alternatives for Filling Replacement
A great way to prevent these problems from developing or worsening is to get your silver fillings replaced with a safe material. But if the dentist doesn’t use the correct procedure, removing the fillings can cause even more mercury exposure.
At CopperMine Dental Studio, we follow mercury-safe dental procedures to remove and replace silver fillings safely. We ensure that the process is handled carefully to minimize mercury exposure, and we offer new fillings that you can feel confident in. These fillings are completely mercury-free and made from safe, biocompatible materials.
Get Mercury Safe and Mercury-Free Filling Replacements
Here at CopperMine Dental Studio, we follow mercury-safe dental procedures to remove and replace silver fillings safely. We also offer new, mercury-free fillings that provide the same strength and durability as traditional fillings, without the risk.
If you want to learn more about mercury in dental fillings and why you might want to get your silver fillings replaced, just give us a call at 520-838-0600 or email us. We are happy to discuss your options and help you make the best decision for your oral and overall health.
FAQs About Mercury Safe and Mercury-Free Dentistry
Why should I replace my silver fillings?
Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury, which can pose long-term health risks. Replacing them with mercury-free materials reduces these risks and provides a more aesthetically pleasing result.Is the process of replacing silver fillings safe?
Yes, when done correctly, replacing silver fillings is a safe process. We use mercury-safe techniques to remove the old fillings and minimize any mercury exposure during the procedure.How long do mercury-free fillings last?
Mercury-free fillings can last many years, with composite resin fillings typically lasting 5-10 years and porcelain fillings lasting 10-15 years or longer with proper care.Are mercury-free fillings more expensive than silver fillings?
Mercury-free fillings may cost more initially, but they are a safer, more aesthetic option and can save you from potential health issues in the long term.How long does it take to replace silver fillings?
The process typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the number of fillings that need to be replaced.