Mercury-Free Dentistry in Markham, ON

You may have heard some negative press about mercury. It’s in our oceans, our soil—and, occasionally, our teeth. Fortunately, our industry has been quickly and continually advancing in dental treatments. And as part of our commitment to comprehensive patient care at 7 Days Dental, we are moving away from this potentially harmful chemical and embracing mercury-free dentistry in our Unionville, ON, facility.

Cavity fillings are one of the more common treatments that our Markham dentist uses. This is because negligent or improper oral hygiene can gradually cause tiny holes to form in teeth that need to be filled. Amalgam fillings are made of metal alloy, which has typically included a combination of silver, copper, tin, possibly zinc—and approximately 50 percent mercury.

The controversy with amalgam fillings

Although the FDA does not believe the threat from amalgam fillings is high, mercury is a neurotoxin and can poison and harm wildlife. It can negatively impact organs, such as your brain and kidneys, over time. Amalgam fillings are now considered a moderate risk to patients, as they can slowly release a vapour in your mouth that accumulates in your body.

However, since dentists have been using these fillings for decades, there are plenty of clinical studies available to consider. Amalgam fillings have shown minimal blame for poor health, and there have been fewer than 150 non-life-threatening reports to the FDA in 20 years. Still, there are growing concerns about them, not to mention that we have better alternatives now anyway.

Alternative options

There are various options for fillings today that we offer to patients at our Unionville dental clinic. Since composite resin is cost-effective and closely resembles your natural enamel, we typically recommend this material for fillings. Porcelain is another excellent option for its colour match and durability. In addition to the mercury issue, amalgam fillings are much less incognito.

Mercury poisoning

While consuming too much fish that contains mercury is considered the most common, amalgam fillings may be another potential cause of mercury poisoning. Individuals should limit their exposure and consumption as much as possible.

Possible symptoms include:

Anxiety, depression, irritability
Memory problems
Numbness or tremors
Pathologic shyness

Lack of coordination
Weak muscles
Difficulty hearing and speaking
Difficulty walking
Nerve loss in hands and face
Vision changes

Mercury poisoning can also impact the way a fetus, infant, or young child develops. It might cause cognitive, fine motor skills, speech and language, and visual-spatial awareness delays.

If you think you may have mercury poisoning, your doctor will conduct a physical exam, blood test, and urine test. Chelation therapy is used for patients with high levels to help remove and discard the mercury from the body.

Learn more about our mercury-free dentistry in Unionville, ON,

At 7 Days Dental, we are pleased to offer many dental treatments without harmful components. Our team is truly devoted to providing quality care to our patients, and we concern ourselves with both your oral and overall health. Schedule an appointment today with our dentist. We welcome any questions you may have about our mercury-free dentistry in Unionville, ON.