Mercury-free (and mercury-safe) services as a cornerstone of biocompatible dentistry

Dr. Al A. Fallah distinguishes with considerable continuing education and training on the latest methodologies and technologies. These investments are made with a real purpose in mind that complements and reinforces our fundamental principles as a holistic and biological dentistry practice serving Carlsbad and the greater North County of California. 

How a dentist approaches and handles dental materials that contain mercury is a tenet of biological dentistry. This approach refers to the compatibility of materials, products, and other aspects of dental care with natural, living tissues. As both a mercury-free and mercury-safe provider, you can trust that all services and treatments at our office enhance your health. They do not present additional risks of adverse reactions or sensitivities. 

More on mercury-free 

Conventionally, dentists have used silver-colored amalgams to make the fillings that are secured to repair cavities. This amalgamation of metals includes copper, tin, and silver. By weight, however, mercury accounts for around half of each filling. The mercury has traditionally been used to help to bind the metal alloys together. 

As a known toxin, mercury does not have a place in our practice or our patients’ mouths. Accordingly, Dr. Fallah is a “mercury-free” provider. He uses safe, nontoxic, and highly biocompatible metal-free materials such as ceramic (like porcelain) or composite resin. These materials have the added benefit of looking like natural teeth! They do not mar your smile with a silver or dark hue that stands out from the neighboring teeth. 

Our practice also goes above and beyond what other dentists do to support their patients’ health and experience by providing “mercury-safe” services. 

The importance of mercury-safe dentistry

One of the important features of mercury in amalgam is how it responds to the process of being drilled out during traditional filling removal. As the amalgam comes in contact with the drill, it heats up. During this process, mercury is released at higher levels as a vapor or in particulate matter created during the procedure to remove the “silver-colored” filling. 

Dr. Fallah and his team have special training in how to safely and properly handle amalgam fillings. They use specific techniques, protocols, and safeguards to minimize mercury exposure as the filling is removed. The idea is to reduce the potential adverse effects of mercury exposure on the patient, dental team, and our community and planet. As such, we have also invested in appropriate equipment to dispose of mercury-containing waste properly. That way, it stays out of our waterways and does not endanger wildlife and our environment.

The tip of the iceberg 

This is just one of many ways that we provide dental care differently than other practices. Our exacting and biological approach shows in everything we do, not just how we address toxic mercury-containing materials. You can read more about these other offerings throughout this website. And if you are looking for more specific information or have questions, we urge you to contact the team at Dentistry for San Diego in Carlsbad, CA, today at (760) 730-1600.