Amalgam Filling Removals: Everything You Want to Know

Dental amalgam has been around for a while now. It is a commonly used dental filling material that is ideal to remove cavities in teeth. However, the material, mercury, one of its major components has been a part of concern among people.

This is why we wanted to bust some myths about its use. Below we talk about some important things you should know about biological dentist amalgam removal London.

Amalgam fillings: what are they?

Dental amalgam fillings use a combination of metals such as liquid mercury, silver, tin, and copper. About 50% of dental amalgam is liquid mercury by weight. Dental amalgam fillings used to be very common previously. These days, they are not so common among people.

What is mercury? Is it dangerous to health?

Mercury or quicksilver is a chemical component. Mercury is known for its unique quality, which remains in a liquid state at a standard condition for pressure and temperature. The chemical element is potentially toxic to human beings.

Contrary to popular belief, now it is generally considered safe if used as part of a dental filling. In some cases, mercury can wreak havoc on our bodies without showing any signs, especially if the person has had dental amalgam fillings in the mouth for years.

How mercury enters the blood?

Mercury has the potential to make an entrance to the body through three major sources including amalgam fillings, some vaccinations, and seafood.

Amalgam fillings are designed in a way so that they release mercury gas. The vapour then enters the lungs. About 80% of mercury vapour gets absorbed into the blood during every breath you take.

Elemental mercury present in amalgam fillings is prone to make its way from the throat to the stomach when a person swallows. It is only then that some part of it gets converted into methylmercury. This element is then absorbed into the body.

Are there any serious health consequences of mercury exposure?

Mercury is dangerous for the central and peripheral nervous systems. Believe it or not, it has the potential to influence the digestive, nervous, lungs, kidneys, and immune systems. This often leads to neurological and behavioural disorders. The symptoms of these disorders may include insomnia, tremors, memory loss, headaches, neuromuscular effects, and cognitive & motor dysfunction, among others. Their effects on kidneys effects are also there.

Is the amalgam filling removal process painful?

To know this you will need to know what the amalgam filling placement process is like. The removal process of an amalgam filling is similar to having a regular dental filling or undergoing a cavity treatment. In such cases, the dentist uses local anaesthesia to anaesthetise the teeth before the removal process. This ensures the patient’s face is in no pain.

How expensive is it to remove amalgam dental fillings?

Getting rid of an amalgam dental filling and substituting it with a safer yet effective material can be comparable to a regular dental filling. The fact is that the cost varies from patient to patient. While some may feel a little pain during the removal, some do not feel any.

How long does the removal process take?

In most cases, it can take from 60 to 90 minutes to complete the removal process. You will be able to get back to your regular daily chores in no time. This is the most significant perk of having an amalgam filling.

How can you reduce mercury exposure in day-to-day life?

It takes a process to set if you are to reduce mercury exposure in your daily life. The first thing you should do is avoid having more amalgam fillings and remove the existing ones while taking proper safety measures.

Plus, it would be best if you restrain yourself from consuming seafood and avoid taking certain vaccinations that contain mercury. Mercury is also present in food and beverage items including canned or fresh tuna, lobster, carrots, saltwater fish, lettuce, seaweeds, and grains. You will find mercury in cosmetics such as eye mascara, hair dyes, skin lightening creams, and certain medications such as contact lens solutions, body powders, recycled toilet paper or latex.

Solvent-thinned paints, floor waxes, fabric softeners, air conditioner filters, or tattoos can contain mercury too. The best way to reduce mercury exposure is to avoid using mercury-exposed products. Also, you will want to read the labels before consuming or using any products to ensure no ingredient has “MER” letters in its name.

Have you reached a point when you think it is necessary to remove your dental amalgam fillings? Do not hesitate to contact a dentist at the smile clinic London and make your appointment. Make sure you discuss everything with your dentist about the safety measures during removing the amalgam filling.