Safe Removal of Dental Amalgam (Mercury Fillings)
We Are an Amalgam-Free Clinic
As a practice, we do not use mercury (amalgam) fillings. Where amalgam fillings are already present in a patient’s mouth, we are happy to remove and replace them safely should you wish to.
Understanding Dental Amalgam
Dental amalgam — the silver-coloured filling material commonly used for decades — is made from a mixture of metals, including mercury, silver, tin, and copper. It has an excellent track record for durability and has been used safely in dentistry for over 150 years.
According to major health and dental regulatory bodies, including the World Health Organization, the FDA, and the British Dental Association, dental amalgam is considered safe when in place in the mouth. Once set, the mercury within amalgam is chemically bound within the alloy, and there is currently no good scientific evidence that intact, functioning amalgam fillings cause harm to general health.
That said, we understand that many patients feel uneasy about having mercury-containing material in their mouths, whether for aesthetic reasons, personal preference, or general peace of mind. If you would prefer to have your amalgam fillings replaced, we’re able to do this safely.
How We Remove Amalgam Safely
Removing amalgam involves drilling out the old filling material, which can release small particles and vapour. To protect you (and our team) during this process, we use high-speed, high-volume suction throughout the procedure. This significantly reduces particles and vapour in the air, keeping exposure to a minimum and making the process as safe as possible.
Additional precautions we may use include:
A rubber dam to isolate the tooth and prevent particles or fragments from being swallowed or inhaled
Copious water cooling to minimise heat and reduce airborne particles
Protective barriers and eyewear for the patient
Replacing Amalgam with Composite
We typically use composite resin — a tooth-coloured filling material to replace amalgam fillings.
What Is Composite Made Of?
Composite is made from a blend of:
A resin matrix (typically a plastic-based material) that binds everything together
Fine glass or ceramic particles, which add strength and wear resistance
A bonding agent, which chemically adheres the material to the natural tooth structure
There is no mercury or metal content in composite, and it has an extensive safety record in modern dentistry. It’s hardened using a curing light in layers, allowing your dentist to sculpt it precisely to match the natural shape and colour of your tooth.
Amalgam vs. Composite: How They Compare
| Feature | Silver Amalgam | Composite Resin |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Silver/grey, highly visible | Tooth-coloured, blends naturally
|
| Bond to tooth | Mechanical retention only (relies on undercuts) | Chemically bonds directly to enamel and dentine
|
| Tooth preparation required | More tooth structure often removed to create retention | More conservative — less healthy tooth removed
|
| Marginal seal | Can allow micro-leakage over time as bond is mechanical | Strong adhesive seal reduces micro-leakage
|
| Mercury content | Contains mercury | Mercury-free
|
| Thermal conductivity | Conducts heat and cold more readily | Insulates against temperature changes
|
| Repairability | Difficult to repair — usually requires full replacement | Can often be repaired in sections
|
| Aesthetics | Not tooth-coloured | Matched to natural tooth shade
|
Composite’s ability to bond directly and chemically to tooth structure, rather than relying on mechanical retention, is one of its key advantages — it allows for more conservative preparation and a tighter seal at the margins. Amalgam, however, still has a long track record for durability in certain high-load situations, particularly in back teeth subject to heavy biting forces, which is worth discussing with your dentist based on your individual case.
How Long Does It Take?
Replacing a filling is generally a straightforward, same-day procedure. On average, each filling takes around 30–60 minutes to remove and replace, depending on its size, location, and complexity. If you have several amalgam fillings, we can discuss whether to treat them in one visit or spread treatment across a few appointments, based on your comfort and preference. Depending on the size of the filling, we may choose to change this to a dental crown, to give your tooth more strength and stability
Why Choose Us
We believe in giving our patients informed choices, backed by the latest evidence and delivered with the highest safety standards. Whether you’re choosing to replace your amalgam fillings for peace of mind or aesthetic reasons, you can trust that:
We follow rigorous safety protocols, including high-speed suction, to minimise exposure during removal
We use high-quality, mercury-free composite materials for natural-looking, durable results
Our team stays up to date with current evidence and guidance on dental materials
We take the time to explain your options clearly, so you can make the choice that’s right for you
If you’re considering having your amalgam fillings replaced, book a consultation with us to discuss your options and find out what’s best suited to your individual needs.
Call us on 02076380870
E-mail us on reception@citydental.co.uk
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