Potentially dangerous vapors are released when mercury amalgam fillings are removed
People who want to replace mercury amalgam fillings should choose a dentist versed in the risks associated with removing these fillings. Ask whether your dentist is trained in proper techniques and has made office modifications to reduce the chance of exposure to mercury vapor during the procedure.
Health Canada has concluded low level absorption from existing mercury amalgam fillings does not contribute to illness in the general population. While mercury vapor is considered toxic, clinical information on toxicity is based on long term studies in industrial settings. Health Canada suggests the evidence does not warrant removal of existing mercury amalgam fillings. Ironically the removal process may create a more serious threat of exposure when mercury components in the fillings vaporize.
Public concern about the safety of mercury amalgam fillings is high.
Instructions
Choosing the Right Dentist
1. Dental procedure rooms should have air purifiers to deliver an alternative source of clean air. Patients should be fitted with a nasal hood, dental dam and goggles. A high-volume suction aspirator should be used to evacuate released vapors. Patients should have their faces covered with a surgical drape during the procedure.
2. Fiillings should be kept cool using large amounts of cold-water spray during extraction. This reduces mercury vapors. Drilling sprays should be modified to spray from three ports rather than the standard single port. Extraction should be performed by cutting away chunks of amalgam rather than grinding.
3. Standard paper hygienic masks offer no protection to dental staff against mercury vapor inhalation. Full face respirators should be worn by technicians during removal.
4. Dentists should be familiar with proper disposal practices under Environment Canada's Standard on Mercury for Dental Amalgam Waste. The Canadian Dental Association has agreed to practice voluntary compliance in assuring the safe disposal of waste products into the environment.
Tags: amalgam fillings, mercury amalgam, mercury amalgam fillings, mercury vapor, during procedure, existing mercury