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When we talk about removing old amalgam fillings, our focus is usually on safety, as the mercury they’re mostly made of is extraordinarily toxic. Even just polishing amalgam releases enormous amounts of mercury vapor. Take a look:
Inhaling mercury vapor is especially dangerous, as it’s rapidly absorbed by the lungs and quickly enters the bloodstream. Mercury can easily cross the blood brain barrier and directly affect the central nervous system. Neurological harm is one of mercury’s greatest risks.
And if you thought the vapor generated during a simple polish was bad, get a load of what happens when drilling amalgam:
This is why we use the Smart Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, or SMART: a science-based protocol for removing amalgams in a way that keeps our patients, ourselves, and our environment safe from this potent neurotoxin.
So yes, safety comes first. Still, we want you to know even more about what we do to support the best outcomes possible when replacing mercury fillings with biocompatible restorations, such as making liberal use of dental ozone.
A Quick Refresher on Dental Ozone
Ozone is a special kind of oxygen. It’s like the oxygen we breathe (O2) but with an extra atom attached (O3). That extra atom is what makes ozone so powerful. It makes the ozone molecule unstable and negatively charged, attracting it to positively charged things – such as harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
It’s a fatal attraction – for the pathogens. Ozone destroys them, and the body excretes them. Ozone also increases blood flow and cytokine production by white blood cells, giving it even more healing power.
And that’s what makes ozone such a versatile tool for biological dentists. Not only does it eliminate “bad bugs,” it stimulates the immune system, lessens pain, improves oxygen transport, and improves the ability of tissues to recover. Ozone is effective, and it’s safe.
Ozone During Safe Mercury Removal
Here at the Holistic Dental Center, ozone is used in every single procedure we do, as all of our treatment rooms are supplied with ozonated water. Generous amounts of water are needed to remove mercury safely.
SMART guidelines require the use of lots of water and high volume suction to help reduce the amount of mercury vapor generator. One study found that when both were used during amalgam removal, the amount of vapor generated was “consistently” below the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety absolute ceiling for mercury vapor. Without either, the maximum was exceeded more than a third of the time.
Using ozonated water offers the extra benefit of ongoing sterilization throughout the procedure.
Once the amalgams have been safely removed, we also use ozone gas and/or water to thoroughly disinfect the prepared teeth before we place the new restoration, ensuring no bacteria or other pathogens remain in the tooth. Because ozone can reach areas that are hard to reach with conventional methods, thorough sterilization is ensured. This helps prevent any potential infections that could arise from treatment.
More, ozone therapy is known to promote healing by enhancing oxygenation and circulation in the treated area. So it also aids in tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation.
Here at the Holistic Dental Center, we believe in going the extra mile for your health. By pairing the SMART protocol with the healing power of ozone, we’re not just removing old fillings; we’re setting the stage for your mouth to thrive. We’re not just fixing teeth; we’re supporting your overall wellness in a mindful and sensible way.
Whether you’re looking to part ways with your old mercury amalgam fillings or simply curious about a more holistic approach to dentistry, we’re here to listen, explain, and work with you towards a healthier smile and optimal mouth/body health. After all, your oral health journey is uniquely yours, and we’re honored to be a part of it.
