Got Metal Toxicity?

by Carey O'Rielly, D.D.S.

I had all my amalgam silver fillings removed last year. Can I assume that since my teeth are now metal free, my body is also?

Does removing metal fillings from your teeth eliminate metal toxicity from your body? Be advised that this is not necessarily so. Removal of metal/amalgam fillings is only the first step in your process of becoming metal free. The next step is to detoxify. It has been shown that metals released from amalgam fillings, including mercury, can be found in various organs of the body. These metal moleculescan remain in the tissue unless properly bound or chelated with a substance that allows elimination.

A mandatory fact sheetwas recently released by the California Dental Association and the Department of Consumer Affairs of the State of California disclosesthat small amounts of free mercury may be released from amalgam fillings over time and can be detected in bodily fluids and expiredair.” A simple saliva test can help to evaluate your immune system’s response to the systemic burden of mercury. A Fecal Metals Test can be used to ascertain the body’s load of toxic metals and how well they are being eliminated.

Oral chelation supplements with well documented results are also available, as is a specific vegan formulation. This program is particularly effective because it gives support to the liver and gently cleanses all organs of elimination without the drawbacks associated with DMPS and DMSA, the better known of the chelating agents. DMPS must be delivered intra-venously and has been known to have adverse effects in some cases. Additionally, DMPS does not cross the blood/brain barrier. While DMSA does cross the blood/brain barrier, it eliminates through the liver and this can have side effects for patients as well.Another protocol for those who respond well to homeopathics support can also be used.

For those concerned about replacing their metal fillings, testing can facilitate a more informed decision. It is especially important for women considering pregnancy to be informed about their levels of metal toxicity since mercury can cross both the blood/brain and the placental barriers. While different types of chelation may be started in the presence of amalgams, the most thorough detoxification should not be done until metal fillings have been replaced. One useful supplement for those who presently have metal fillings is a Japanese seaweed. This supplement was sent to Cernobyl after the nuclear accident because it is helpful with radiation exposure as well as metal toxicity.

At Integrative Dental Practice we follow a strict protocol for metal removal proposed by the International Academy of Oral and Metal Toxicology. This includes a rubber dam, pure air through a nosepiece, supplemental filtration and access to fresh air. We offer several products for detoxification before and after metal removal. However we also recommend that a physician be contacted whenever there are concerns about toxic and/or diseased conditions of the body. We are networked with a number of physicians who share our concerns and we are always pleased to make appropriate referrals for our patients.

At Integrative Dental Practice our goal is to provide a supportive and non-toxic environment for you in your quest for a healthier smile. Our philosophy, that the mouth is the gateway to the body, is reflected in our state of the art holistic and cosmetic care. We offer all-digital equipment and bio-compatible materials in all aspects of our practice. Our preventative and non-surgical alternatives for healthy gums will soon include a home care kit. We also offer Dental Materials Testing done at Clifford Labs based on a blood sample. Shows a full range of substances used in dental care and the body’s tolerance to each one.

For more information please call the Integrative Dental Practice at (760) 944-8841.