Mercury-Safe and Mercury-Free Fillings in Vero Beach

Biocompatible Fillings That Put Your Wellness First

At Ware Family Dentistry, your health and safety are our top priorities. That’s why we’re proud to offer mercury-safe and mercury-free dental fillings for all our patients. We believe in providing tooth-colored restorations that not only look natural but also protect your overall well-being. As trusted dentists in Vero Beach FL, we are committed to using biocompatible materials that support long-term oral and systemic health.

What Does Mercury-Safe Mean?

A mercury-safe dental practice follows strict protocols to minimize exposure to mercury vapor during the removal of old amalgam (silver) fillings. Amalgam fillings contain approximately 50% mercury, a toxic substance that can be released during placement, chewing, or removal. While the debate over amalgam safety continues, many patients prefer to avoid mercury exposure altogether.

At Ware Family Dentistry, we take extra precautions when removing existing amalgam fillings. Our mercury-safe procedures include using high-volume suction, rubber dam isolation, and proper ventilation to protect you, our team, and the environment from mercury vapor. We also offer mercury-free alternatives for all new fillings, ensuring that no new mercury is introduced into your mouth.

Why Choose Mercury-Free Fillings?

Mercury-free fillings are made from composite resin, a tooth-colored material that bonds directly to your natural tooth structure. These fillings offer several advantages over traditional amalgam:

• Natural Appearance: Composite fillings are custom-shaded to match your existing teeth, making them virtually invisible. This is especially important for fillings in visible areas like front teeth or premolars.
• Stronger Bond: Unlike amalgam, which requires more removal of healthy tooth structure, composite resin bonds chemically to your tooth. This creates a stronger, more conservative restoration.
• No Mercury Exposure: By choosing mercury-free fillings, you eliminate any concerns about long-term mercury exposure from your dental work.
• Reduced Sensitivity: Composite fillings do not conduct temperature as much as metal fillings, which can help reduce tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
• Biocompatible and Safe: Composite materials are considered safe and biocompatible, making them an excellent choice for patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking holistic dental care.

Our Mercury-Safe Filling Removal Process

If you have old amalgam fillings that need to be replaced, our mercury-safe removal process ensures your safety every step of the way. Here’s what to expect:

• Isolation with a Rubber Dam: We place a protective barrier around the tooth to prevent mercury particles from being swallowed or inhaled.
• High-Volume Suction: Specialized suction equipment captures mercury vapor and debris during removal.
• Sectioning the Filling: We carefully section and remove the amalgam in large pieces to minimize vapor release.
• Air Filtration: Our office is equipped with proper ventilation to ensure clean air throughout the procedure.
• Replacement with Composite Resin: Once the old filling is removed, we restore your tooth with a durable, natural-looking composite filling.

Who Should Consider Mercury-Free Fillings?

Mercury-free fillings are ideal for anyone seeking a healthier, more aesthetic option. They’re especially recommended for:

• Pregnant or nursing mothers
• Patients with metal sensitivities or allergies
• Individuals concerned about mercury exposure
• Anyone who wants natural-looking restorations
• Parents seeking safe dental care for their children

As experienced dentists in Vero Beach FL, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your dental health. Whether you’re getting your first filling or replacing old amalgam restorations, we’ll guide you through the process with care and transparency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mercury-Safe Fillings

Are amalgam fillings dangerous?

The American Dental Association considers amalgam fillings safe for most patients. However, many people prefer to avoid mercury exposure when possible, which is why we offer mercury-safe removal and mercury-free alternatives.

How long do composite fillings last?

With proper care, composite fillings can last 7 to 10 years or longer. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene help extend their lifespan.

Does insurance cover mercury-free fillings?

Most dental insurance plans cover composite fillings, especially for front teeth. We’ll work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits.

Is the removal process painful?

No. We use local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Our mercury-safe protocols add extra steps for safety but do not increase discomfort.

Can I replace all my old fillings at once?

While it’s possible, we typically recommend replacing fillings gradually to minimize stress on your teeth and allow for proper healing between appointments.

Experience Safe, Beautiful Restorations

At Ware Family Dentistry, we believe that quality dental care should never compromise your health. Our mercury-safe practices and mercury-free filling options reflect our commitment to providing the safest, most effective treatments available. As leading dentists in Vero Beach FL, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with materials you can feel confident about.

 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our mercury-free filling options. Let us help you protect your smile and your health with personalized, compassionate care.