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Amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver fillings, were once a popular choice for dental restorations. However, with growing concerns over the mercury content in these fillings, many patients are choosing to have amalgam removed. At Skye Dental, we offer amalgam removal with a tooth-coloured, mercury-free material.
There are several reasons why you may be considering the removal of your amalgam fillings. For some, it’s about reducing exposure to mercury, while others seek a more aesthetically pleasing alternative. Over time, amalgam fillings can also weaken teeth, making replacement a better option for long-term dental health.
Whatever your reason, Skye Dental is here to help.
When it comes to amalgam removal, we follow a defined protocol to help reduce mercury exposure during the process. At Skye Dental, our team uses protective measures, including high-powered suction systems, rubber dams, and air filtration to help control mercury vapour during the procedure.
Some patients choose to not replace their amalgam fillings and that is totally ok!
Amalgam removal involves carefully drilling out silver fillings that contain dental mercury. The rate at which amalgams are replaced depends on the individual and should be carefully discerned. Whenever an amalgam filling is drilled or replaced mercury vapour is released. You would normally inhale this and absorb it into your body without special measures. To remove amalgam fillings without following the correct protocol is more dangerous than leaving it in the mouth. Incorrect amalgam removal increases your mercury poisoning risk dramatically.
That’s why we follow the safe mercury amalgam removal technique (SMART) protocol, recommended by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicity (IAOMT). This includes but is not limited to, using a rubber dam, air filtration and nasal medical air to reduce exposure to mercury vapour.
Rubber dam: This is a sheet of rubber or latex-free stretchy material stretched around your teeth during amalgam removal. It is stretched over a frame to form a physical barrier that prevents you from inhaling mercury vapour and tries to stop your mouth from filling with amalgam particles.
Air filtration: A mercury filtration machine (IQAIR) with a flexible vacuum arm or high-volume suction duct captures the majority of aerosol and vapours from the drilling process. Our treatment rooms are purpose-built for amalgam removal and are fitted with a unique ducted high-velocity air-exchange system. This system removes toxic substances in the air from the room. It replaces the air with fresh air every three and a half minutes during amalgam removal.
Nasal medical air: We use nasal masks to deliver medical air during amalgam removal. This helps to avoid patients inhaling mercury vapor or amalgam particulate during the procedure.
Amalgam waste disposal: We have installed a Durr amalgam separator that filters the wastewater from amalgam removal. The waste is trapped in a sealed cassette and is recycled by an environmentally responsible waste collection company.
After your amalgam fillings are removed, we offer a range of modern alternatives to restore your teeth. Composite resin fillings are a popular choice as they try to match the natural colour of your teeth, providing a subtle and durable solution. For a more long-lasting option, porcelain fillings or inlays may be recommended. At Skye Dental, we’ll work with you to choose the right replacement material that suits your dental needs and lifestyle.
At Skye Dental, we understand the concerns around mercury exposure during amalgam removal. That’s why we’ve invested in the latest technology and protocols to protect both our patients and our team.
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The team at Skye Dental is happy to answer questions or talk through your options before you book.
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