- Home
- About
- Services
- Anesthetic Free Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Same Day Crowns
- Comprehensive Cleanings/Exams
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Mercury Free Fillings
- Pain Free Laser Dentistry
- Veneers
- Removable & Fixed Bridgework
- Oral Cancer Screening
- Root Canal Therapy
- Dental Fluoride & Dental Sealants
- Implant Restoration
- Extractions
- Preventative & Periodontal Care
- Invisalign
- Removable Prosthodontics
- Patient Resources
- COVID-19
- New Patient Forms
- Rate our Office
- Contact
Mercury is a powerful neurotoxin which has been traditionally incorporated in tooth-filling matter known as normal dental amalgam which is used to fill dental cavities. Despite the fact these are usually called silver fillings, that name is deceptive because this matter is made up of 50% mercury. It is now known that mercury is a heavy metal that potentially can damage the central nervous system. Unfortunately, too many modern dentists still use this mercury material for fillings, which could be dangerous.
Although every person is disposed to the negative effects of dental amalgam fillings, there are some people who are more in peril than others. These include those with kidney ailments, infants who are breastfed, children, women of childbearing age, and people with neurological disorders. People who have braces need to be aware that dental amalgam fillings could corrode if they come into contact with other metals. This will result in larger levels of mercury being released in to your body. Another noteworthy downside to amalgam fillings is that mercury can expand and contract with temperature changes, this means that teeth can get cracked and damaged over time.
Safe Alternatives to Dental Amalgam Fillings
Thankfully with the advances in dental techniques and technology, no one has to risk experiencing negative health due to having dental amalgam fillings. The most popular mercury-free options are glass lonomer and composite materials. These options provide the best in durability, they will not damage your teeth by expansion and contraction, and are being progressively offered by dentists all over the globe. They are easier to repair, environmentally friendly, are vital in stopping the development of caries, and have no known negative health effects. Almost all patients also find them far better aesthetically than their older amalgam counterparts.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our professional oral heath care staff at Dentists of Hinsdale Lake for more information on safe, mercury-free options to classic dental amalgam fillings.
