Why Metal-Free Dentistry Matters for Your Whole Body Health

Why Metal-Free Dentistry Matters for Your Whole Body Health

When most people think about dental fillings, they picture the silver-coloured amalgam that dentists have used for over 150 years. But at Dentistry on Merivale, we’ve made a conscious choice to be a completely metal-free and amalgam-free practice. Here’s why that matters — not just for your teeth, but for your whole body.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Your mouth is not isolated from the rest of your body. It’s a gateway, and what happens in your mouth can affect your entire system. Research continues to reveal connections between oral health and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy outcomes.

This is the foundation of holistic dentistry — recognizing that every dental decision has implications beyond your teeth.

What’s in Amalgam Fillings?

Traditional amalgam fillings contain approximately 50% mercury, along with silver, tin, and copper. While regulatory bodies in many countries still consider amalgam safe, a growing number of nations have restricted or banned its use, particularly for pregnant women and children.

The European Union, for example, has banned amalgam fillings for children under 15 and pregnant or breastfeeding women since 2018. Several countries have banned it entirely.

Our Approach: Biocompatible Materials

At Dentistry on Merivale, we don’t just avoid amalgam — we actively research and select the safest, most biocompatible materials available. Our composite resins and ceramic restorations are:

• Free from mercury and heavy metals
• Color-matched to your natural teeth
• Bonded directly to your tooth structure for added strength
• Continuously improving as material science advances

The Benefits Beyond Safety

Choosing metal-free dentistry doesn’t just address health concerns — it offers practical advantages:

1. Aesthetics — Composite fillings are invisible. No one will know you’ve had dental work.
2. Conservation — We remove less of your natural tooth structure when placing composite fillings.
3. Strength — Composite bonds directly to your tooth, actually reinforcing it.
4. Sensitivity — Many patients report less temperature sensitivity with composite fillings.

Is It Time to Replace Your Amalgam Fillings?

If you have existing amalgam fillings and are considering replacement, we can help. We assess each filling individually, considering its condition, location, and your overall health. When replacement is appropriate, we use careful removal protocols to minimize any exposure during the process.

Your Health, Our Priority

At Dentistry on Merivale, we believe your dental care should support — never compromise — your overall health. That’s why we’ve committed to a metal-free, amalgam-free approach.

Ready to experience holistic dental care? Call (03) 355-8297 or book online to schedule your consultation.

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Part of Lumino The Dentists — NZ’s most trusted dental network. Located at Merivale Mall, 193a Papanui Road, Christchurch.