Safe Mercury Removal

Mercury fillings also known as amalgams contain 50% mercury. These mercury fillings constantly release a steady stream of invisible mercury vapor which is inhaled and absorbed into our systems. Drilling into these fillings creates tiny particles which increase the surface area thereby increasing the vapor released but these tiny particles can also be inhaled, greatly increasing the amount of mercury exposure. Swallowing mercury chunks and particles can also lead to a spike in mercury levels due to absorption of mercury through the GI tract. There are many instances of patients who get sick after removal of mercury fillings although there are no studies on this exact topic. So how do we safely remove mercury fillings?

The mercury fillings are sliced into pieces whenever possible and these pieces are dislodged rather than completely drilled away. A strong steady stream of water spray helps keep the fillings cool thereby reducing the amount of mercury vapor released since heat increased the release of the toxic vapor.

A high volume evacuation unit accompanied with specialized "Clean-Up" suction tips are the first line of defense. Most of the vapor and particles should be sucked into the high speed suction. The "Clean-Up" tips help collect most of the major particles released during the removal process. The office uses an IQAir Dental series unit to collect the mercury vapor into 4 specialized mercury containment cartridges. There are also two additional units running 24/7 in the office to further collect any mercury vapor which may have escaped during the removal process to further protect the air quality of the office.

Rubber dams are utilized which are barriers between the tooth being worked on and the rest of the mouth. This helps eliminate or minimize the amount of mercury particles flowing back into the throat but the vapor can still travel through the dam. That is why a saliva ejector is placed underneath the rubber dam to further suck in any vapor that escapes through the dam. A mask which normally supplies nitrous oxide can also be used to provide oxygen to the patients during the removal process. A towel can be used to cover the face to further protect against mercury spray. So you can see that we have given much thought to protect both client and staff from mercury exposure. If the client has a holistic or naturopathic/homeopathic medical provider then they can further recommend supplements to boost the immune system before and after mercury removal.