If you’ve had cavities filled, chances are you have silver or metal fillings in your mouth. These fillings, which were popular for many years, are made of metal that includes approximately 50 percent mercury. Dentists used them because they were thought to be durable, safe, and less expensive.

However, in recent years concern over the potential toxicity of mercury has been raised as studies link mercury to several diseases including Alzheimer’s, chronic fatigue, heart disease, and tremors. Now, patients and dentists, including Dr. Peter Evans, your Williamsburg BioCompatible dentist, are turning to mercury-free composite fillings.

In addition to being made of 100 percent safe materials, these metal-free fillings offer patients a more natural tooth-colored filling instead of the traditional metal look. With metal-free material, most people can’t tell the difference between the enamel and the filling. Additionally the composite fillings are durable and less likely to crack or pull away from the teeth.

If you believe that mercury-free is the way you want to go with your fillings, consider the following:

• Find a dentist who is committed to caring for you as a person. While mercury-free fillings are becoming more popular, it’s good to find a dentist who truly believes in the practice. Not one who is only following a trend. Dr. Evans has been practicing holistic and BioCompatible dentistry for many years. He believes that the health of your mouth affects the health of your body, and the health of your body affects the health of your mouth. With his focus on your overall health and wellbeing, you can feel sure that Dr. Evans will only treat you with necessary and safe procedures.
• Find a dentist who knows how to remove mercury fillings. Most dentists don’t recommend taking silver fillings out unless they are cracked or beginning to chip. However, if you need to have one removed, you want to feel confident that the dentist is experienced and trained in the proper way to handle the material. Dr. Evans follows the exact protocol, ensuring that the mercury material does not cause harm to the patient or the staff. Then the material is disposed of properly, keeping the environment safe as well.

If you’re considering mercury safe fillings, call the Evans Dental Care office today to find out more.