Mercury free dentistry

Are amalgam fillings (that normally contain 50% Mercury) safe? As yet we do not have a definitive answer. The questions regarding the safety and advisability of the presence of Mercury (a heavy metal) in dental fillings are on the increase. More so now that there are many good alternatives to amalgam 'silver'/ 'black' fillings!

The fact that mercury has been used in dental fillings for over 150 years has lead some in the dental profession and DoH to assume that it is safe and therefore continue its recommendation and use. Times change, people expectations change and technology moves forwards relentlessly.

It is illegal to use lead water pipes or lead paints anymore. Lead is another heavy metal. It is illegal to have mercury in normal AA bateries. Many boast 0% mercury content. Yet it is still legal to use mercury (50%) in dental fillings that are placed in the teeth, in the mouth!

In many countries including Sweden, Germany and Japan the use of mercury amalgam fillings is being discouraged by their respective governments; both on environmental & health grounds. It is also becoming an environmental issue with cremation!

Stella Maris Dental is a mercury free dental practice. What this means in practical terms is that we do not offer amalgam/mercury fillings as an option for treatment. We believe there are now better, more acceptable and sought after choices, namely: natural colour porcelain fillings (CEREC), composite (a type of plastic material) and gold fillings (if the colour is not an objection).

Unfortunately there is no such thing as the perfect dental filling material. At least not yet! But it is our opinion that a properly done porcelain (CEREC) filling/restoration is the nearest to a natural tooth, both in appearance and strength.

We do not recommend the replacement of an existing sound mercury/'black' filling unless for  health and cosmetic reasons. We discuss the alternatives with you including the pros and cons of each option before giving you our professional advice on how to proceed.