Mercury-Safe and Mercury-Free Fillings at South Bay Dentistry
Modern, Safety-First Dental Fillings
At South Bay Dentistry, we believe that great dental care means looking out for your whole health, not just your teeth. That’s why Dr. Denise McCaskill offers mercury-safe and mercury-free fillings as a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional silver amalgam restorations. If you’re concerned about mercury in your existing fillings, or simply want to avoid it from the start, South Bay Dentistry is here to help. Among Apollo Beach dentists, we are proud to stand out for our commitment to biocompatible, patient-first dental materials.
What Are Mercury-Safe and Mercury-Free Fillings?
Traditional silver amalgam fillings contain approximately 50% mercury by weight, combined with other metals like silver, tin, and copper. While dental organizations have long maintained that amalgam is safe for most patients, many people are understandably uncomfortable with the idea of mercury in their mouths. Mercury is a well-documented neurotoxin, and concerns about long-term low-level exposure are worth taking seriously.
Mercury-free dentistry means we do not use amalgam for new fillings. Mercury-safe dentistry goes a step further; it refers to the specific protocols used during the removal of existing amalgam fillings to minimize mercury vapor exposure for the patient, the dentist, and the dental team.
At South Bay Dentistry, we practice both. Our white composite fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin that bonds directly to your natural tooth structure. They contain no mercury and no metal, delivering a durable, natural-looking restoration that blends seamlessly with your smile.
Why Patients Choose Mercury-Safe Care at South Bay Dentistry
There are many reasons patients seek out mercury-safe treatment, and our team is here to support every one of them. Here are the top benefits of choosing composite fillings over traditional amalgam:
- No mercury exposure: Composite fillings are completely free of mercury and other heavy metals, making them a safer choice for health-conscious patients.
- Natural appearance: The tooth-colored resin is shade-matched to blend in with your surrounding teeth, so your restoration is virtually invisible.
- Less removal of healthy tooth structure: Composite bonds directly to the tooth, meaning we can preserve more of your natural enamel compared to amalgam placements.
- Reduced sensitivity: Many patients report less temperature sensitivity with composite fillings than with metal-based alternatives.
- Durability: Modern composite materials are strong, long-lasting, and well-suited for both front and back teeth.
Safe Amalgam Removal
If you have existing silver fillings and want them replaced, it’s important that removal is done carefully. When amalgam is drilled out, it releases mercury vapor that can be inhaled or absorbed. Our mercury-safe protocols are designed to reduce this risk significantly.
During removal, we use measures such as high-volume suction, sectioning the filling into large chunks rather than grinding, providing supplemental oxygen for the patient, and ensuring proper ventilation throughout the procedure. These steps reflect our dedication to your safety and our belief that how we remove old materials matters just as much as what we replace them with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are my current silver fillings dangerous?
A: Most dental and health organizations consider amalgam fillings safe for the general population. However, if you are concerned about mercury exposure, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a sensitivity to metals, talking with Dr. McCaskill about mercury-safe alternatives is a perfectly reasonable step.
Q: Will my insurance cover composite fillings?
A: Coverage varies by plan. Some insurers cover white fillings at the same rate as amalgam, while others may cover only a portion. Our team is happy to help you understand your benefits before treatment.
Q: How long do mercury-free composite fillings last?
A: With proper care, composite fillings can last many years. Regular checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like grinding or chewing ice all help extend their lifespan.
Q: Does replacing old fillings hurt?
A: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so most patients experience little to no discomfort. Some mild sensitivity afterward is normal and typically resolves within a few days.
Patient Safety Is Our Highest Priority
South Bay Dentistry is proud to be among the Apollo Beach dentists leading the way in mercury-safe, health-conscious dental care. Whether you’re coming in for a new cavity or looking to replace old amalgam restorations, Dr. McCaskill and our team are ready to provide safe, beautiful, and lasting results. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.