YOU MAY THINK THAT modern, white composite fillings are primarily about a more attractive cosmetic appearance… But it’s about more than looks.
50% Of Mercury Waste Comes From Dental Offices
Until recently, the most common type of fillings placed were silver amalgam fillings (the dark, silver-looking kind). Amalgam fillings are typically composed of about 50% mercury—mixed with other metals to stabilize and balance the mercury.
Recently, the trend has moved toward white composite fillings which better blend with your natural teeth.
Here’s An Informative Story About Amalgam Fillings
(NOTE TO OUR CLIENTS: You can customize your blog post by answering some questions here. Why should your patients want an alternative to amalgam fillings? Do you have any examples of patients who have switched out all of their metal fillings for your alternative? Are there any health concerns that you feel your patients should know about? You can add any additional content here… And of course, this is optional…)
But placing composite fillings is just step one in going mercury-free. What about the old amalgam fillings that we’re removing?
We Support Healthy Waterways & Wildlife
Although some health studies on silver amalgam fillings may still be inconclusive, one thing is undeniable—mercury is a major pollutant to our water supplies. Wildlife can suffer endocrine disruption and even death. We humans also suffer when we eat fish that has high levels of methyl mercury, a neuro-toxin.
What’s The Solution?
We have a device called a dental amalgam separator. When we remove amalgam fillings from patients, it separates the mercury and holds it until we can send it out for safe disposal.
The EPA, in partnership with other local and national organizations, is working hard to encourage legislative action that protects our water supply from dental mercury pollution. You can learn more about it at their website.
Do You Have Any Questions Or Concerns?
Do you still have amalgam fillings in your mouth? Don’t panic… That’s not the purpose of this post. But, let’s visit about it the next time you come in. And in the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about it, please ask us!
