Why Is Mercury Free Dentistry Important?

You’re concerned about the world around you. You try to incorporate healthy decisions to have a positive impact on yourself and others. You value your health. Does this sound like you?

If so, keep reading to learn about a dangerous practice that could be affecting you and your family’s health. This article will teach you about dental amalgam, its toxic nature, and why you should choose a mercury free dentist.

What’s Wrong With Dental Amalgram?

Amalgam is a material used in  dental practices for the filling of cavities. Many people refer to these as “silver” fillings to mislead the consumer. Amalgam is made of approximately 50% mercury.

Herein lies the problem; mercury is a known neurotoxin! A dental filling may seem like too small of an amount to have an effect, but American dental offices are the second largest mercury users in the nation. Once implanted in the mouth, dental amalgam releases toxins into the body. This needless use of mercury is having harmful effects on our bodies and the environment.

Health Risks

In 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned that the FDA had a responsibility to warn its clients and consumers about the dangers of amalgram, specifically about the danger it poses to children.

Did you know that dental amalgram has, in some cases, contributed to brain disease, neurological problems and immune deficiency diseases? Research is proving that there are safer alternatives to dental treatment products other than mercury, such as composite fillings.

Dental Discomfort

Made of metal, amalgam fillings are subject to the rise and fall of temperatures. The metal may expand or shrink in severely hot or cold conditions. This expanding may lead to small, painful cracks in the fillings.

Environmental Hazards

Made of mercury, amalgram must be properly handled when being disposed. The EPA has indicated that some dental mercury eventually ends up in water sources – such as rivers and lakes – and endangers the lives of wild animals who rely on these water bodies for a drinking source.

The Benefits of Mercury Free Dentistry?

You have the power to choose a dentist who believes in a mercury free environment. In addition to knowing you’ve been proactive about your oral health, you can feel good about the following outcomes of mercury free dentistry:

• Fillings are made with a safe, toxin-free epoxy resin.
• Crowns are made with beautiful porcelain to correct larger amounts of decay.
• Fillings and crowns are matched to your tooth color for a natural finish.
• Protect your teeth against future problems, such as cracks.
• Help save wildlife and American water sources.
• Increased comfort in an environment focused on your well-being.

By choosing mercury free dentistry, you are helping your family’s health and the environment. If you have any questions about amalgam, composite or other dental materials – please don’t hesitate to ask!