Mercury fillings, also known as silver fillings or amalgam fillings, have actually been in use for centuries, with early applications found in China and Germany. During the 1800s, the practice became more widespread, and it has continued to this day, but modern concerns about the side effects of mercury fillings have raised questions about continued use, leading to the development of viable alternatives.
What Are Mercury Fillings Made Of?
Some dentists use a substance referred to as “amalgam” for teeth fillings, which is composed of liquid mercury combined with metals like silver, tin, copper, and zinc in an alloy.
The conventional amalgam alloy used in the industry features approximately 65% silver, 29% tin, and 8% copper. More recent formulations feature approximately 40% silver, 32% tin, and 30% copper. The final alloy powder is combined with liquid mercury. One option, a low-copper amalgam, when completed results in a total composition of 50% mercury, 22–32% silver, 14% zinc, and 8% zinc.
The finished amalgam is then used as a filling for restoration work or as a precursor to the placement of a crown.
Major Side Effects of Mercury Fillings
Unfortunately, mercury fillings are not without their problems, as there are a variety of health issues that can develop from their use. In fact, many European dentists have begun avoiding mercury fillings and some countries have even banned or restricted use of them.
When mercury fillings are in your mouth, your body becomes exposed to small amounts of mercury every day via the act of chewing, while hot drinks contacting the mercury can release mercury vapors as well.
Some of the side effects of mercury fillings, and the health problems that can develop due to mercury poisoning and long-term mercury exposure, include:
- Headaches
- Nerve damage
- Kidney problems
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Respiratory failure
- Nausea
- Allergic reactions
- Harm to developing fetuses
Avoid Mercury and Get Natural Tooth Fillings from Dr. Katie Orr
At our holistic dental practice, we never use mercury fillings because we want to avoid side effects and promote complete patient health and wellness. Instead, we use natural tooth fillings that feature resins, which are part of a family of nanoplastic hybrids. And don’t worry, because these are holistic plastics that don’t come with the concerns associated with traditional plastics and their microplastic particles.
Benefits of Natural Tooth Fillings
Eschewing traditional mercury fillings and opting for natural fillings brings with it a wide range of advantages, including:
- You’ll be avoiding potential mercury-based side effects
- It’s a conservative approach, as you only need to take away the decayed part of the tooth
- No undercut is required in the process
- There is no release of fluoride unlike with traditional fillings, helping patients with sensitivities or objections to fluoride
- You’ll be working with a dentist who has never used mercury in her practice and has been committed to natural tooth fillings for more than 25 years
Patient health has always been a priority for Dr. Katie, so she has always taken a firm stance against mercury fillings. Originally, natural tooth fillings were a more expensive alternative, but Dr. Katie’s commitment to patient wellness meant it was the only option for her practice. Over the years, technology has evolved for natural fillings and the greater dental industry has caught up, and Dr. Katie is proud to be at the forefront of this movement.
At our practice, we’re also able to provide mercury filling removal services for patients with existing amalgam fillings.
Looking to Avoid the Side Effects of Mercury Fillings? Contact Us!
If you’re looking to make the best decision for your oral and bodily health, natural tooth fillings are the answer! Contact our team to schedule an appointment and we’ll be happy to assist you.
