Mercury-Free Fillings in Ottawa: Amalgam-Free Care at BluSky Dental
Modern tooth-colored alternatives with safe removal protocols
At BluSky Dental Holland Cross, we've chosen to be a mercury-free practice. We never place mercury amalgam fillings, and for patients with existing amalgam who wish to have it removed, we follow protective protocols that prioritize your safety. Modern tooth-colored alternatives offer excellent durability while eliminating mercury exposure.
Serving Westboro, Hintonburg, Wellington West, Little Italy, and Downtown Ottawa with mercury-free dental care.
Our Mercury-Free Commitment
No New Amalgam Fillings
We exclusively use mercury-free materials for all fillings:
- Composite resin - Tooth-colored, bonded, durable
- Ceramic inlays/onlays - For larger restorations
- BPA-free options - Available for sensitive patients
Safe Amalgam Removal
For patients who choose to remove existing mercury fillings, we follow the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol:
Patient Protection:
- Rubber dam isolation
- External air/oxygen available
- Protective draping
- Activated charcoal option
Mercury Capture:
- High-volume evacuation
- Additional oral suction
- Sectioning technique (chunking)
- Minimal drilling on amalgam
Environmental Protection:
- Amalgam separator
- Proper waste disposal
Why Choose Mercury-Free?
Aesthetics
Tooth-colored fillings blend invisibly with natural teeth—no silver or dark spots when you smile.
Bonding Strength
Composite fillings bond directly to tooth structure, actually strengthening the remaining tooth rather than just filling the space.
Conservative Preparation
Less tooth removal is typically required for composite fillings compared to amalgam.
No Mercury Exposure
Eliminate concerns about mercury vapor release from amalgam fillings.
Temperature Stability
Composites don't expand and contract with temperature changes like metal amalgam, reducing stress on teeth.
The Filling Process
Cavity Preparation
- Gentle removal of decay
- Conservative preparation preserving tooth structure
- Cleaning and disinfection
Bonding Application
- Etching creates micro-texture for bonding
- Primer and adhesive applied
- Creates strong chemical bond
Composite Placement
- Material placed in layers
- Each layer light-cured
- Built up to proper shape
Finishing
- Shaped to match natural tooth contours
- Polished for smooth surface
- Bite checked and adjusted
Composite vs. Amalgam
| Factor | Composite | Amalgam |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Tooth-colored | Silver/dark |
| Mercury | None | ~50% mercury |
| Bonding | Bonds to tooth | Mechanically retained |
| Tooth removal | Conservative | More removal needed |
| Temperature response | Stable | Expands/contracts |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
Should I Replace My Amalgam Fillings?
Reasons to Consider Replacement
- Filling is damaged, cracked, or failing
- Decay around existing filling
- Personal preference to eliminate mercury
- Cosmetic concerns about silver appearance
- Metal sensitivity or allergy
If Fillings Are Intact
Intact, well-sealed amalgam fillings may be left in place if you prefer. Removal is elective unless there's clinical reason for replacement.
We discuss your options without pressure, respecting your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Insurance typically covers filling replacement when clinically indicated (decay, damage). Elective replacement for mercury concerns may not be covered. We verify your benefits.
We often recommend removing fillings in quadrants rather than all at once to minimize exposure and allow recovery. We create a customized plan.
Modern composites are highly durable. With proper care, they can last 10-15+ years—comparable to amalgam in many cases.
Schedule Your Mercury-Free Care
Experience modern, mercury-free dentistry at BluSky Dental Holland Cross. Our Westboro location provides safe alternatives and careful protocols for Ottawa patients.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝