For many years, silver-colored fillings—known as amalgam fillings—were one of the most common ways to repair cavities. Dental amalgam is a mixture of several metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Mercury makes up almost half of the material and helps bind the other metals together to form a firm, durable filling.
While amalgam fillings have lasted for decades, we now understand more about how mercury behaves inside the body. The mercury in these fillings can release tiny amounts of vapor, especially when chewing, grinding, or drinking hot liquids. Over time, this can lead to chronic mercury exposure, which may place added stress on the body’s detoxification and immune systems.
Mercury is a naturally occurring element that has a liquid and vapor form. In the vapor form, it can be absorbed through the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Small, repeated exposures can build up over many years. Chronic exposure negatively affects the nervous system, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract.
When an old amalgam filling is removed without proper safety measures, excessive mercury vapor is released into the air. That’s why many dentists follow the SMART Technique—the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. This protocol uses clean air systems, high-volume suction, water cooling, and protective barriers to reduce exposure for both the patient and dental team. Continuous rinsing and air filtration keep the environment as safe as possible during treatment.
Removing mercury fillings is not only about your teeth—it’s about lowering the total toxic burden on your body. Every day, your body works to filter and eliminate substances from food, air, and the environment. Mercury can add to that load, making it harder for your system to stay balanced.
People who choose to replace old amalgams often use this as a turning point toward more profound healing. Supporting the body with hydration, nutrient-dense foods, gentle detox methods, and stress reduction can enhance recovery and energy. At Voyage to Vitality, we view this as part of a broader journey toward whole-body wellness—where the mouth, digestion, sleep, posture, and emotional balance are all connected.
If you have silver fillings, there’s no need to act out of fear. The first step is education. Learn about your options, ask questions, and work with a trained provider who follows safety-centered protocols.
At Voyage to Vitality, we believe that real change starts within. Understanding how materials in your mouth influence the rest of your body gives you the power to make choices that support lasting health. Your mouth is not separate from your body—it reflects it. Protecting it wisely helps your entire system heal, adapt, and thrive from the inside out.