I want three mercury fillings removed, but I don’t know if I can trust my dentist to do it. The fillings are in my lower left second molar and the two teeth in front of them. When I asked my dentist about amalgam removal, he said I should keep the fillings until they wear out. I no longer want mercury in my mouth due to some health problems within the past two years. I am trying to clear my body of toxicity by changing what I eat and my environment. As part of my health transition, I want to replace the mercury filling with composite. I am concerned that if I insist on replacing the fillings, I cannot trust my dentist to follow the protocol to limit my mercury exposure. How would I know whether he is truly following the protocol anyway? I get sedation before dental appointments, so I won’t be fully alert. Should I find a dentist who routinely replaces mercury fillings with composite, like a biological or holistic dentist? Any advice? Thanks. Mo
Mo,
Your efforts to achieve a healthier lifestyle are commendable. Your healthcare providers should respect your choices and patient rights, including your desire for sanitary amalgam removal and replacement with composite fillings.
Can You Trust Your Dentist to Replace Mercury Fillings?
Holistic dentistry provides sanitary amalgam removal
If you have talked with your dentist about the process, you can trust your dentist to replace mercury (silver or amalgam) fillings with composite. Your dentist should be willing to explain how they practice safe amalgam removal and replacement. Some dentists isolate the teeth containing amalgam fillings and ensure you are not exposed to amalgam material or vapor.
If you are concerned about mercury in your teeth, you may want to consider a dentist who customarily practices mercury-free dentistry and removes amalgam fillings.
We suggest finding two dentists who practice biological or holistic dentistry, scheduling complimentary consultations with them, and asking questions to see if they will address your concerns. After your consultations, selecting a dentist you can trust will be easier.
Sugar Land implant and cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.