Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal
Careful, Biologically Minded Approach
At Southern Laser Dentistry, we understand that some patients want their old silver fillings evaluated or replaced with more modern, tooth-colored materials. Our approach to mercury amalgam removal is careful, conservative, and designed to reduce unnecessary exposure during the removal process.
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Whether your filling is damaged, leaking, cracked, worn down, or you simply want to discuss your options, our team will evaluate your teeth first and recommend the safest, most appropriate path forward.
Serving Greenville, SC with advanced, comfiort-focused, biologically conscious care.
What Are
Mercury Amalgam Fillings?
Understanding “Silver” Dental Fillings
Dental amalgam fillings are often called “silver fillings,” but they are made from a mixture of metals, including elemental mercury. The FDA states that dental amalgam contains mercury and releases low levels of mercury vapor, while also noting that most evidence does not show negative health effects in the general population.
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That said, the FDA recommends that certain higher-risk groups avoid dental amalgam when possible and appropriate, including people who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, nursing mothers, children under 6, people with known mercury sensitivity, and people with certain neurological or kidney conditions.
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At Southern Laser Dentistry, we do not use fear-based dentistry. We focus on clear evaluation, careful removal when indicated, and restorative options that support long-term oral health.
Is This You?
You may not know whether your old silver fillings are still healthy — and that uncertainty is exactly why an evaluation matters.
Your old silver fillings look rough, cracked, or worn
Your old silver fillings look rough, cracked, or worn
​The tooth feels sensitive
Cold, pressure, chewing, or sweet sensitivity can signal that the tooth or filling needs attention.
You are concerned about the removal process
If you are concerned about mercury exposure, you should not have old amalgam removed casually. The process should be planned and controlled.
Your old silver fillings look rough, cracked, or worn
Dark areas may be harmless staining, but they can also point to leakage, decay, or breakdown around the edges of the filling.
You want a more natural-looking restoration
​Many patients prefer tooth-colored restorations that blend with their smile and avoid the dark appearance of metal fillings.
You want a more biologically conscious dental plan
​You may want a practice that considers materials, inflammation, prevention, and long-term tooth preservation as part of your care.
Evaluate first. Explain clearly. Treat only when appropriate.
We do not recommend removing every amalgam filling automatically. If a filling is stable, healthy, and not causing problems, we will discuss the risks and benefits before recommending treatment.
Removal Should Be Done Carefully — Not Casually
Removing an amalgam filling is different from placing a routine tooth-colored filling. When old amalgam is drilled out, the process can release mercury vapor and fine particles. The IAOMT’s Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, known as SMART, was developed as a set of safety recommendations intended to reduce exposure for patients, dentists, and dental team members during removal.
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That is why our approach focuses on:
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Careful isolation of the tooth
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High-volume evacuation
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Controlled sectioning of the old filling when appropriate
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Protection of surrounding tissues
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Replacing failing restorations with modern alternatives
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Evaluating the tooth structure before choosing the final restoration
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This is not about panic. It is about precision.
Why Patients Choose Southern Laser Dentistry
Family dentistry should feel modern, thoughtful, and steady — not rushed or transactional.
Advanced Laser Technology
Precision-focused systems designed to support tissue preservation and patient comfort.
Biologically Conscious Approach
We consider how treatments interact with the body and prioritize long-term wellness when appropriate.
Conservative Treatment Philosophy
We preserve healthy tooth structure and recommend care only when it’s truly needed.
Calm, Communication-First Visits
We explain clearly, move at your pace, and remove pressure from decision-making.
What to Expect
Your Amalgam Removal Visit
1
Evaluate
We examine your existing filling, take any needed digital imaging, and determine whether replacement is appropriate.
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If removal is recommended, we use protective measures to help reduce exposure during the procedure.
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Restore
Protect
We replace the old filling with a modern restoration selected for strength, appearance, and long-term function.
Choosing the Right Replacement for Your Tooth
After an old silver filling is removed, the next step is restoring the tooth in a way that supports long-term strength and function.
Tooth-Colored Filling
A tooth-colored filling may be used when the area is smaller and the tooth is still strong. This option blends naturally with your smile and allows us to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Inlay or Onlay
An inlay or onlay may be recommended when the tooth needs more strength than a regular filling can provide. This option can help protect larger areas of the tooth without necessarily covering the entire tooth.
Same-Day Crown
A same-day crown may be recommended when the tooth is heavily weakened, cracked, or structurally compromised. A crown covers and protects the tooth, helping restore strength and function in one visit when appropriate.
We Choose the Restoration Based on the Tooth — Not a Template
Every tooth is different. A smaller filling may only need a conservative repair, while a larger failing filling may require more protection.
Our goal is to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible while choosing a restoration that is strong enough for everyday chewing and long-term function.
Should Every Amalgam Filling Be Removed?
Not always.
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Some amalgam fillings may still be stable, well-sealed, and functioning properly. Others may show signs of wear, cracking, leakage, decay, or weakening of the surrounding tooth structure.
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At Southern Laser Dentistry, we take a conservative approach. We do not recommend replacing fillings simply because they are old. First, we evaluate the condition of the tooth and restoration, explain what we see, and help you understand whether monitoring or replacement is the better option.
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If removal is recommended, we use added precautions designed to reduce unnecessary exposure during the process and restore the tooth with a material selected for strength, appearance, and long-term function.
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Our goal is simple: clear guidance, careful treatment, and no fear-based pressure.
Mercury Amalgam FAQs
Still have questions? Our team is here to help you feel confident before your visit.
Concerned About
Old Silver Fillings?
If you have old amalgam fillings and want a careful, honest evaluation, Southern Laser Dentistry can help you understand your options.
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We will examine the condition of your fillings, explain whether replacement is necessary, and recommend a treatment plan based on your tooth structure, comfort, and long-term oral health.
