Understanding Amalgam Filling Removal:
Risks, Procedure, and Alternatives
If you’re considering removing your amalgam fillings, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits associated with the procedure. Amalgam fillings contain mercury, which can raise concerns for some individuals.
Read on to find out more about the process of amalgam filling removal, the risks and benefits and alternative filling materials to help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
What is an amalgam filling?
Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are a type of dental filling that has been used for over 150 years to repair cavities in teeth. They are made from a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, copper and tin. The amalgam filling material is strong, durable and relatively inexpensive, which has made it a popular choice for dental fillings.
However, in recent years, there has been some concern raised about the potential health risks associated with the mercury content in amalgam fillings, leading some individuals to consider having them removed. Come in and discuss your concerns today.
People are choosing to have their existing amalgam fillings replaced due to the health concerns over mercury. Discuss your worries with your dentist today.
What are the benefits of removing metal fillings?
There are numerous benefits of removing amalgam fillings:
- Reduction in the risk of tooth fracture or damage caused if the amalgam is large and bulky. Some patient find the change an aesthetically pleasing results if replaced with tooth-coloured fillings or other alternatives
- Removal of old, worn, or damaged fillings that may be causing tooth decay or other dental issues
- Improvement in overall oral health, as removing old fillings if compromised can help prevent further decay and infection
Am I a good candidate for an
amalgam removal procedure?
If you have concerns about the potential health risks associated with amalgam fillings or are experiencing any dental issues related to your fillings, you may be a good candidate for amalgam filling removal. However, the best way to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate, is to book a consultation with us so that we can assess your current fillings and suggest a suitable treatment plan for you.
Patients often request their Silver fillings removed in favour of tooth-coloured composite fillings.
What are the risks of removing mercury amalgam fillings?
Before the removal of your dental amalgam fillings, it’s important to be aware of any risks associated with the procedure. Potential risks include:
- Exposure to mercury vapour during the removal process.
- Need for replacement fillings, which can involve additional dental procedures and costs, depending on the type of filling material used
- Possibility of tooth sensitivity or discomfort after the filling removal procedure
How is the procedure carried out
at The Dentist at 70 Pitt St?
If you choose to have your mercury fillings removed by us in Sydney CBD, this is what you can expect:
Consultation
Before we remove amalgam fillings, we will discuss your concerns and expectations with you and evaluate your dental health. We will explain the risks and benefits of removing the amalgam filling, as well as alternative filling materials if applicable. We may also take x-rays or other images to assess the condition of your teeth and plan the procedure.
Procedure
During the amalgam fillings removal procedure, we will first administer a local anaesthetic to numb the treatment area. We will then use a drill to remove the amalgam filling while being careful not to damage the tooth or surrounding tissues. To minimise your exposure to mercury vapour during the removal process we use our high-volume suction.
Once the filling is removed, we will clean and shape the cavity in preparation for the replacement filling material. Depending on the type of filling material used, we may need to take additional steps such as bonding or curing the material to the tooth.
Post-Procedure
After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth for a few days. We may recommend taking over-the-counter pain medication or prescribe medication if necessary. We advise that you avoid eating hard, sticky, or crunchy foods for a few days after the procedure.
Follow good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to help prevent further decay or infection. Attend follow-up appointments with us as recommended to ensure proper healing and check the success of the replacement filling material.
New Patient Offer
1st Visit comprehensive Examination,
Check-up, Teeth Cleaning for New Patients
- Pay Only $380 - Save $177
(regular price: $557) (including Full exam, images, x-rays, clean, polish and fluoride treatment)
- Comprehensive Oral Examination and Consult ($110)
- 2x bite-wing x-rays ($88)
- 1x Dental Panoramic OPG x-ray ($100)
- 1x Dental Panoramic OPG x-ray ($110)
- Comprehensive Scale & Clean ($221)
- Fluoride treatment ($28)
How much does amalgam filling
removal cost in Sydney?
The cost of amalgam filling removal in Sydney can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of fillings needed, the complexity of the procedure, and the type of replacement filling material used. The best way to determine a personal cost estimate for your amalgam filling removal would be to schedule an initial consultation with us.
Why choose us to remove your mercury fillings in Sydney CBD?
We are a team of experienced and qualified dental professionals dedicated to providing safe and effective amalgam filling removal in Sydney CBD.
We take a personalised approach to each patient’s needs and work closely with them to develop a treatment plan that meets their goals and expectations. We prioritise patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure and provide thorough aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
How to contact us at our Sydney CBD clinic
- Day Time +61292333399
After Hours 0406986909 - Email Us: info@thedentist.net.au
- 1/70 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
- Mon & Thu: 8am-7pm
Tue, Wed & Fri: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 8am-1pm
Sunday: closed
FAQs
Below you can find our FAQs about amalgam filling removal in Sydney CBD.
Contact us for more information about the procedure, or use the online form above to book an appointment.
It depends on individual circumstances and concerns. If you have concerns about the potential health risks associated with mercury content in amalgam fillings, or are experiencing dental issues related to your fillings, it may be worth considering removal. However, it's important to discuss your options with a qualified dentist to make an informed decision.
Amalgam fillings can be replaced with tooth-coloured composite fillings, porcelain, or ceramic inlays, or gold fillings. The choice of replacement material depends on factors such as the location, size and function of the tooth, as well as personal preferences and budget.
The removal of amalgam fillings should not be painful as a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area around the tooth. However, some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or as recommended by the dentist.
Please note that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.