The term “Biological Dentistry” is being used for a whole new paradigm of dental care.
Some have used the term “Holistic Dentistry” or “Integrative Dentistry,” pretty much meaning the
same thing in general. We’ll continue to use the term Biological Dentistry in this paper, and try to
clarify what we mean by it. Traditional dentistry has typically followed an outmoded, problemoriented
model, focusing on individual problems with individual teeth. The whole body, and
whole person, has often been overlooked. Evidence is growing that traditional dentistry,
however well intentioned, may have been contributing to generations of health problems. What
has been overlooked is attention to concerns about how various dental materials and
techniques may affect overall health. Biological Dentistry, though not a certified or recognized
“specialty,” aims at optimal health for the whole individual. Materials and techniques are chosen
that are compatible with health.
Some have used the term “Holistic Dentistry” or “Integrative Dentistry,” pretty much meaning the
same thing in general. We’ll continue to use the term Biological Dentistry in this paper, and try to
clarify what we mean by it. Traditional dentistry has typically followed an outmoded, problemoriented
model, focusing on individual problems with individual teeth. The whole body, and
whole person, has often been overlooked. Evidence is growing that traditional dentistry,
however well intentioned, may have been contributing to generations of health problems. What
has been overlooked is attention to concerns about how various dental materials and
techniques may affect overall health. Biological Dentistry, though not a certified or recognized
“specialty,” aims at optimal health for the whole individual. Materials and techniques are chosen
that are compatible with health.
A great deal of concern has surfaced in the last two decades about materials used in
dentistry that may actually be toxic to the body. Is there really cause for concern? We believe
there is, and that current scientific evidence supports this position. Chief among the offenders is
the long traditional filling material, “silver” amalgam. When you look in your (or someone else’s)
mouth and see silver or dark gray fillings, those are amalgam fillings. Amalgam is a mixture of
mercury with silver, tin, sometimes copper and zinc. It is approximately 50% mercury. That is
where the problem lies. Although there is clear and irrefutable evidence that some of this
mercury does escape from this unstable compound, it is still widely used by over half the
dentists in America.
dentistry that may actually be toxic to the body. Is there really cause for concern? We believe
there is, and that current scientific evidence supports this position. Chief among the offenders is
the long traditional filling material, “silver” amalgam. When you look in your (or someone else’s)
mouth and see silver or dark gray fillings, those are amalgam fillings. Amalgam is a mixture of
mercury with silver, tin, sometimes copper and zinc. It is approximately 50% mercury. That is
where the problem lies. Although there is clear and irrefutable evidence that some of this
mercury does escape from this unstable compound, it is still widely used by over half the
dentists in America.
It is well established, scientifically, that elemental mercury (mostly in the form of mercury
vapor) is released in small amounts from amalgam fillings on an ongoing, daily basis. Chewing
or heat increases the vapor release some ten-fold, and it remains at that higher level for an hour
and a half or more. The exact amount of release is subject to some variation, but a panel of
experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) has agreed that the single greatest source of
exposure to mercury in humans is from amalgam fillings. It is greater than exposure from food
(including fish), air, water and environmental sources combined. When we add to this the fact
that mercury is an extremely toxic material, rated more toxic than the other heavy metals such
as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, then there should be some serious cause for concern about the
safety of this material in dentistry.
vapor) is released in small amounts from amalgam fillings on an ongoing, daily basis. Chewing
or heat increases the vapor release some ten-fold, and it remains at that higher level for an hour
and a half or more. The exact amount of release is subject to some variation, but a panel of
experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) has agreed that the single greatest source of
exposure to mercury in humans is from amalgam fillings. It is greater than exposure from food
(including fish), air, water and environmental sources combined. When we add to this the fact
that mercury is an extremely toxic material, rated more toxic than the other heavy metals such
as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, then there should be some serious cause for concern about the
safety of this material in dentistry.
The uptake of this mercury into the body has been well documented. Careful animal
studies have demonstrated that mercury does, in fact, accumulate in body tissues. This long
term, low level exposure continues as long as the fillings are in the mouth. Mercury vapor may
be inhaled, absorbing rapidly and almost completely into the bloodstream. Some may be
incorporated into food while chewing and absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive
system. The fate of this absorbed, toxic mercury will be discussed below. Given even the above
limited information, one wonders why the organized profession of dentistry in the U.S. has not
sought to restrict or limit its use. Rather, the American Dental Association (ADA), a professional
trade organization representing the majority (though definitely not all) of American dentists, still
maintains that mercury amalgam is a safe and appropriate filling material.
studies have demonstrated that mercury does, in fact, accumulate in body tissues. This long
term, low level exposure continues as long as the fillings are in the mouth. Mercury vapor may
be inhaled, absorbing rapidly and almost completely into the bloodstream. Some may be
incorporated into food while chewing and absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive
system. The fate of this absorbed, toxic mercury will be discussed below. Given even the above
limited information, one wonders why the organized profession of dentistry in the U.S. has not
sought to restrict or limit its use. Rather, the American Dental Association (ADA), a professional
trade organization representing the majority (though definitely not all) of American dentists, still
maintains that mercury amalgam is a safe and appropriate filling material.
One can hold the opinion that amalgam is safe. But when opinion is at odds with fact,
then opinion should be revised. The following are facts. That is, they are well established by
scientific method (our thanks to Dr. Murray Vimy and his book, Your Toxic Teeth, for this list):
then opinion should be revised. The following are facts. That is, they are well established by
scientific method (our thanks to Dr. Murray Vimy and his book, Your Toxic Teeth, for this list):
- Mercury is an extremely dangerous, poisonous substance
- There is no “safe” level of mercury exposure to humans
- Dental “silver” amalgam fillings contain 50% mercury
- Mercury is released continuously from amalgam fillings, because this material is inherently and chemically unstable
- In humans, mercury amalgam fillings produce a pharmacologically significant daily dose of poisonous mercury
- Mercury fillings are the largest source of toxic mercury exposure in the general population
- Toxic mercury released from mercury fillings collects in all adult human tissues, being highest in the kidney, liver and the brain
- Dental mercury crosses the placenta and collects in the developing unborn; the newborn is exposed again through mother’s milk
- Mercury from dental fillings reduces kidney function
- Mercury from dental fillings alters the normal bacterial population in the intestinal tract, producing antibiotic resistant bacteria
- Mercury from dental fillings has been implicated in nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease
A list of some references is found at the end of this paper for any who want to see more
details on mercury amalgam research.
The above information is enough to cause those of us practicing “Biological” dentistry to
reject amalgam as a filling material. It isn’t necessary to “prove” that mercury from amalgams
will cause “disease X”. It isn’t necessary (or appropriate) at this point in time, to claim that
removing these mercury fillings will bring about a specific, positive health benefit. The above
simple and irrefutable facts are enough to declare mercury amalgam to be an unsuitable
material to use in dentistry. Outside of the United States, many other countries are officially
agreeing. Several countries have severe restrictions or outright bans on the use of amalgam
fillings.
details on mercury amalgam research.
The above information is enough to cause those of us practicing “Biological” dentistry to
reject amalgam as a filling material. It isn’t necessary to “prove” that mercury from amalgams
will cause “disease X”. It isn’t necessary (or appropriate) at this point in time, to claim that
removing these mercury fillings will bring about a specific, positive health benefit. The above
simple and irrefutable facts are enough to declare mercury amalgam to be an unsuitable
material to use in dentistry. Outside of the United States, many other countries are officially
agreeing. Several countries have severe restrictions or outright bans on the use of amalgam
fillings.
In the first half of the 1800’s, dentistry consisted mainly of restoring teeth with gold, for
those who could afford it, and a lot of extractions for those who could not. In about 1860, two
brothers came from Europe with a new material that’s not much different from what is still used
today as dental amalgam. It revolutionized dentistry, in that teeth could be filled with a material
that was relatively inexpensive and easy to use. This meant that many more people could afford
to have fillings done (and teeth saved) than ever before.
those who could afford it, and a lot of extractions for those who could not. In about 1860, two
brothers came from Europe with a new material that’s not much different from what is still used
today as dental amalgam. It revolutionized dentistry, in that teeth could be filled with a material
that was relatively inexpensive and easy to use. This meant that many more people could afford
to have fillings done (and teeth saved) than ever before.
Many of the dentists at the time, however, were very concerned about this material,
believing that it was not a healthy material and shouldn’t be used. Proponents of this new
amalgam material fought a heavy battle. The dentists who were against this material that they
believed to be inferior tried to get fellow dentists to sign an oath not to use it. In the end,
economic pressures won out. A new society was formed of those dentists who decided to adopt
mercury amalgams. This became what is now the American Dental Association.
In the 1920’s, a German chemistry professor named Alfred Stock published research
articles and scientific letters attacking the use of amalgam fillings on the basis of possible
mercury toxic effects. Again, the dental profession’s opinion prevailed and the controversy faded
to the background until the late 1970’s. A Colorado dentist and well known nutritional advisor,
Dr. Hal Huggins, began to champion the anti-amalgam position after learning about amalgam’s
mercury effects from Dr. Olympio Pinto of Brazil. Dr. Huggins was finding that his work with
patients in balancing their body chemistry through nutrition was enhanced when he paid
attention to their mercury load and removed their mercury fillings. His clinical success led him to
conclude that the use of mercury amalgam fillings in dentistry has been causing health
problems in many people.
believing that it was not a healthy material and shouldn’t be used. Proponents of this new
amalgam material fought a heavy battle. The dentists who were against this material that they
believed to be inferior tried to get fellow dentists to sign an oath not to use it. In the end,
economic pressures won out. A new society was formed of those dentists who decided to adopt
mercury amalgams. This became what is now the American Dental Association.
In the 1920’s, a German chemistry professor named Alfred Stock published research
articles and scientific letters attacking the use of amalgam fillings on the basis of possible
mercury toxic effects. Again, the dental profession’s opinion prevailed and the controversy faded
to the background until the late 1970’s. A Colorado dentist and well known nutritional advisor,
Dr. Hal Huggins, began to champion the anti-amalgam position after learning about amalgam’s
mercury effects from Dr. Olympio Pinto of Brazil. Dr. Huggins was finding that his work with
patients in balancing their body chemistry through nutrition was enhanced when he paid
attention to their mercury load and removed their mercury fillings. His clinical success led him to
conclude that the use of mercury amalgam fillings in dentistry has been causing health
problems in many people.
Dr. Huggins’ ideas were slow to take hold. However new scientific research in the early
‘80’s began to give credibility to the idea that amalgam use might be risky. Studies were done
using careful and sophisticated measurements with a highly sensitive mercury vapor analyzer,
and it was conclusively shown that mercury vapor does indeed come out of amalgam fillings in
the mouth (a fact previously denied by the ADA). This led the way for further scientific
investigation. In 1984 and organization was formed called the International Academy of Oral
Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This academy is dedicated to spreading information in the
scientific community on the research being done regarding issues of mercury, as well as other
related topics in biological dentistry. Some of the leading current research has come about from
IAOMT members or as a result of IAOMT support. If one has any doubt about whether mercury
vapor escapes from amalgam fillings, simply watch the “Smoking Teeth” video on the IAOMT
website (www.iaomt.org).
‘80’s began to give credibility to the idea that amalgam use might be risky. Studies were done
using careful and sophisticated measurements with a highly sensitive mercury vapor analyzer,
and it was conclusively shown that mercury vapor does indeed come out of amalgam fillings in
the mouth (a fact previously denied by the ADA). This led the way for further scientific
investigation. In 1984 and organization was formed called the International Academy of Oral
Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This academy is dedicated to spreading information in the
scientific community on the research being done regarding issues of mercury, as well as other
related topics in biological dentistry. Some of the leading current research has come about from
IAOMT members or as a result of IAOMT support. If one has any doubt about whether mercury
vapor escapes from amalgam fillings, simply watch the “Smoking Teeth” video on the IAOMT
website (www.iaomt.org).
Today, the IAOMT has chapters worldwide, and is the leading authoritative body in the
field of mercury in dentistry (although the ADA would probably not agree with that statement).
The ADA, in spite of a huge accumulated body of valid, scientific, peer-reviewed research, still
maintains their position that amalgam is safe and appropriate. We, in the growing ranks of
biological dentistry, regard it as an inferior, toxic, 19th century dental material that has no place
whatsoever in 21st century dentistry.
field of mercury in dentistry (although the ADA would probably not agree with that statement).
The ADA, in spite of a huge accumulated body of valid, scientific, peer-reviewed research, still
maintains their position that amalgam is safe and appropriate. We, in the growing ranks of
biological dentistry, regard it as an inferior, toxic, 19th century dental material that has no place
whatsoever in 21st century dentistry.
The question of what to use instead of amalgam fillings is the challenge for the biological
dentist. There are a variety of materials and techniques developed over the last several years
that satisfy our requirements of providing long-lasting, comfortable, esthetic and non-toxic
restorations of teeth. There is no perfect material. The best is still to have undamaged, natural
tooth structure. So, prevention is still the first goal in dentistry. However, when damage does
occur and needs repair, there are enough good materials available that make mercury amalgam
obsolete. Dentists who were committed to mercury-free dentistry in the 1980’s had to struggle
with these newer materials in their emerging stages of development and refinement. Today, they
continue to be improved as a revolution in non-metal dental materials has developed.
Most versatile of dental materials today are those in the broad category of ceramics.
This includes “composite resin,” porcelains, and various in-betweens. They can be used
anywhere that amalgam was used, with expectations of equivalent longevity and strength, or
better. Their esthetic properties, when used properly, can nicely mimic the beauty of natural
teeth and become virtually invisible in the mouth. Much study has been done on the
biocompatibility of these materials, and they come out quite favorably. All of these materials do
take more time and skill and advanced training to master. Unfortunately, many of these
materials and techniques are still not being taught widely in dental schools. They are also more
expensive to the patient than the old amalgam fillings. However, when patients are given the
real truth about the toxic potential of amalgam, few choose to stick with this inferior material just
to save some money.
dentist. There are a variety of materials and techniques developed over the last several years
that satisfy our requirements of providing long-lasting, comfortable, esthetic and non-toxic
restorations of teeth. There is no perfect material. The best is still to have undamaged, natural
tooth structure. So, prevention is still the first goal in dentistry. However, when damage does
occur and needs repair, there are enough good materials available that make mercury amalgam
obsolete. Dentists who were committed to mercury-free dentistry in the 1980’s had to struggle
with these newer materials in their emerging stages of development and refinement. Today, they
continue to be improved as a revolution in non-metal dental materials has developed.
Most versatile of dental materials today are those in the broad category of ceramics.
This includes “composite resin,” porcelains, and various in-betweens. They can be used
anywhere that amalgam was used, with expectations of equivalent longevity and strength, or
better. Their esthetic properties, when used properly, can nicely mimic the beauty of natural
teeth and become virtually invisible in the mouth. Much study has been done on the
biocompatibility of these materials, and they come out quite favorably. All of these materials do
take more time and skill and advanced training to master. Unfortunately, many of these
materials and techniques are still not being taught widely in dental schools. They are also more
expensive to the patient than the old amalgam fillings. However, when patients are given the
real truth about the toxic potential of amalgam, few choose to stick with this inferior material just
to save some money.
There is also the option today of doing individualized biocompatibility testing of dental
materials. This may be particularly helpful for patients with multiple chemical or environmental
sensitivities. There are various methods for such testing, and although we don’t consider these
tests to be foolproof, often they can be helpful and appropriate.
“Should I replace my amalgam fillings?”
materials. This may be particularly helpful for patients with multiple chemical or environmental
sensitivities. There are various methods for such testing, and although we don’t consider these
tests to be foolproof, often they can be helpful and appropriate.
“Should I replace my amalgam fillings?”
It is our recommendation that you never allow another amalgam filling to be placed in
your mouth by any dentist. The decision to replace amalgam fillings that are already in the
mouth needs to be considered more carefully. Many of our patients come to us because their
physician feels that they may have some health problems where heavy metal (including
mercury) exposure or accumulation may be part of the problem. As an adjunct to their medical
treatment, they recommend having their amalgam fillings carefully replaced (see below) with
more biocompatible materials. Others come to us because they have read and learned enough
about the mercury issues that they have decided they don’t want this material in their mouths
anymore, and request that we replace it. In our opinion, either of these is a wise and valid
reason for replacing the old mercury amalgam. We don’t take the position that everyone in our
practice should replace all of their amalgam fillings. It is a choice. We do, however, feel a
responsibility to educate everyone on the mercury issues and let them know that a mercury-free
mouth is always available in our office. Biological dentists generally would agree that they
wouldn’t want to allow this material to be in their own mouths, or in the mouths of their families
or staff. That is more or less the standard we like to hold to for our patients in everything that we
do here.
your mouth by any dentist. The decision to replace amalgam fillings that are already in the
mouth needs to be considered more carefully. Many of our patients come to us because their
physician feels that they may have some health problems where heavy metal (including
mercury) exposure or accumulation may be part of the problem. As an adjunct to their medical
treatment, they recommend having their amalgam fillings carefully replaced (see below) with
more biocompatible materials. Others come to us because they have read and learned enough
about the mercury issues that they have decided they don’t want this material in their mouths
anymore, and request that we replace it. In our opinion, either of these is a wise and valid
reason for replacing the old mercury amalgam. We don’t take the position that everyone in our
practice should replace all of their amalgam fillings. It is a choice. We do, however, feel a
responsibility to educate everyone on the mercury issues and let them know that a mercury-free
mouth is always available in our office. Biological dentists generally would agree that they
wouldn’t want to allow this material to be in their own mouths, or in the mouths of their families
or staff. That is more or less the standard we like to hold to for our patients in everything that we
do here.
You may notice that we are not saying if you replace your amalgam fillings you will
experience benefits of X or Y or Z. We do see, over and over again (as do our colleagues
worldwide), patients who have experienced significant, positive health changes when they have
followed closely the safe amalgam replacement protocols described below.
What is involved in amalgam replacement?
experience benefits of X or Y or Z. We do see, over and over again (as do our colleagues
worldwide), patients who have experienced significant, positive health changes when they have
followed closely the safe amalgam replacement protocols described below.
What is involved in amalgam replacement?
The first step is the decision to do it. This decision should be carefully considered. It may
involve discussion with your physician, or one that we can recommend. It may involve some
form of testing for body levels of mercury by your physician. It may just be a matter of learning
and digesting the facts about mercury and amalgam. Once that decision is made, there are
several factors that we feel are very important in proceeding with your decision. First, the
treatment should be done by a dentist experienced with, and committed to, mercury safe
dentistry because of the potential complexities involved. Deciding to replace your amalgams,
and then deciding to run off to the nearest or cheapest dentist and talk them into doing it would
not be wise.
involve discussion with your physician, or one that we can recommend. It may involve some
form of testing for body levels of mercury by your physician. It may just be a matter of learning
and digesting the facts about mercury and amalgam. Once that decision is made, there are
several factors that we feel are very important in proceeding with your decision. First, the
treatment should be done by a dentist experienced with, and committed to, mercury safe
dentistry because of the potential complexities involved. Deciding to replace your amalgams,
and then deciding to run off to the nearest or cheapest dentist and talk them into doing it would
not be wise.
The dental treatment needs to be done cautiously in order to protect the patient from
exposure to additional mercury during the course of the dental procedures. This is a crucially
important point, and one that is likely to be overlooked by most dentists who are not committed
to mercury safe dentistry. Just because a dentist has stopped using amalgam in their practice,
they are not necessarily “mercury safe.” A lot goes into protective protocols to insure procedures
that are safe from unnecessary exposure to mercury for the patient, the doctor, and the dental
staff. Dr. Tom McGuire of Dental Wellness Institute (www.dentalwellness4u.com) are
cofounders of New Directions Dentistry, dedicated to teaching dentists the important procedures
for mercury safe dentistry. Some of the protocols were developed by the IAOMT, and we
continually update our protective procedures.
exposure to additional mercury during the course of the dental procedures. This is a crucially
important point, and one that is likely to be overlooked by most dentists who are not committed
to mercury safe dentistry. Just because a dentist has stopped using amalgam in their practice,
they are not necessarily “mercury safe.” A lot goes into protective protocols to insure procedures
that are safe from unnecessary exposure to mercury for the patient, the doctor, and the dental
staff. Dr. Tom McGuire of Dental Wellness Institute (www.dentalwellness4u.com) are
cofounders of New Directions Dentistry, dedicated to teaching dentists the important procedures
for mercury safe dentistry. Some of the protocols were developed by the IAOMT, and we
continually update our protective procedures.
The choice of replacement materials also needs to be carefully considered. We want
materials that are strong, long lasting, comfortable, esthetically pleasing, and biocompatible. We
believe all these factors can be achieved. As mentioned above, individualized biocompatibility
testing may be advised for some patients at this point.
materials that are strong, long lasting, comfortable, esthetically pleasing, and biocompatible. We
believe all these factors can be achieved. As mentioned above, individualized biocompatibility
testing may be advised for some patients at this point.
Lastly, it needs to be understood that removing amalgams from the mouth is only part of
becoming mercury-free.as long as amalgam fillings have been in a person’s mouth, that person
has been continuously exposed to a low level of mercury, most of which has been accumulating
in the body. It takes some help to get rid of this accumulated mercury. The body doesn’t do it
very effectively by itself. When appropriate, we will help steer you to health practitioners who are
experienced in dealing with heavy metal detoxification and clearing. This is a very important
step to make sure that everything is done according to current research and clinical
understanding of how to reduce or eliminate mercury in the system and reduce its potential toxic
damage.
becoming mercury-free.as long as amalgam fillings have been in a person’s mouth, that person
has been continuously exposed to a low level of mercury, most of which has been accumulating
in the body. It takes some help to get rid of this accumulated mercury. The body doesn’t do it
very effectively by itself. When appropriate, we will help steer you to health practitioners who are
experienced in dealing with heavy metal detoxification and clearing. This is a very important
step to make sure that everything is done according to current research and clinical
understanding of how to reduce or eliminate mercury in the system and reduce its potential toxic
damage.
Of course, most people wonder about the cost of replacing amalgams. This will vary
widely according to the number and size of the fillings and what materials and techniques are
needed to replace them. Our initial consultation will always provide you with a written estimate
of the cost of the treatment that you choose.
widely according to the number and size of the fillings and what materials and techniques are
needed to replace them. Our initial consultation will always provide you with a written estimate
of the cost of the treatment that you choose.
There is a related issue on mercury n the environment. It’s clear that mercury is toxic to
humans. It is also a significant environmental contaminant, and there are millions of dollars
spent on cleaning up toxic sites from industrial pollution of mercury. There is also a great deal of
effort being made to control mercury emissions from industrial settings where mercury is used.
Here in Washington State, the Department of Ecology has designated mercury as one of the top
targeted “Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxins” (PBT’s) to be eliminated in our environment. What
has been overlooked in many areas, until fairly recently, is that dentistry is one industry that is
spilling a significant amount of mercury into the environment.
humans. It is also a significant environmental contaminant, and there are millions of dollars
spent on cleaning up toxic sites from industrial pollution of mercury. There is also a great deal of
effort being made to control mercury emissions from industrial settings where mercury is used.
Here in Washington State, the Department of Ecology has designated mercury as one of the top
targeted “Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxins” (PBT’s) to be eliminated in our environment. What
has been overlooked in many areas, until fairly recently, is that dentistry is one industry that is
spilling a significant amount of mercury into the environment.
Wastewater treatment agencies in several parts of the U.S. and Canada have been
studying this problem in earnest. They find that wastewater entering the municipal treatment
plants often contains unacceptable levels of heavy metals, including mercury. It is important for
this contamination to be cut off at the source. Their studies have estimated that anywhere from
14% to 70-80% or more of the mercury contamination of wastewater entering the treatment
plants is coming from dental offices!
studying this problem in earnest. They find that wastewater entering the municipal treatment
plants often contains unacceptable levels of heavy metals, including mercury. It is important for
this contamination to be cut off at the source. Their studies have estimated that anywhere from
14% to 70-80% or more of the mercury contamination of wastewater entering the treatment
plants is coming from dental offices!
How does this happen? Any time a mercury amalgam filling is placed or removed, there
is a significant amount of excess amalgam “sludge” that is vacuumed up by the chair side dental
assistant. It doesn’t just disappear. That mercury-laden sludge goes down the drain and into the
wastewater system. In most offices, this goes completely unchecked. Several European
countries have had regulations for years that require dental offices to be equipped with special
mercury-separator devices that filter out or trap mercury before the wastewater leaves the
dental office. Prior to 2001, no such regulations existed in any U.S. area. That year, King County
(Washington) was the first area in the country to mandate “amalgam separators” for dental
offices. Now it is state-wide, and several other areas around the country have followed suit. It is
still a small number, and we believe this should be standard policy everywhere.
We are proud to say that we have had such a wastewater protective device in place long
before it was mandatory. In fact, ours was one of the very first in the country. This has been a
special interest of mine, and I have been involved over the years in the effort to educate the
dental profession and the wastewater municipalities on this problem.
is a significant amount of excess amalgam “sludge” that is vacuumed up by the chair side dental
assistant. It doesn’t just disappear. That mercury-laden sludge goes down the drain and into the
wastewater system. In most offices, this goes completely unchecked. Several European
countries have had regulations for years that require dental offices to be equipped with special
mercury-separator devices that filter out or trap mercury before the wastewater leaves the
dental office. Prior to 2001, no such regulations existed in any U.S. area. That year, King County
(Washington) was the first area in the country to mandate “amalgam separators” for dental
offices. Now it is state-wide, and several other areas around the country have followed suit. It is
still a small number, and we believe this should be standard policy everywhere.
We are proud to say that we have had such a wastewater protective device in place long
before it was mandatory. In fact, ours was one of the very first in the country. This has been a
special interest of mine, and I have been involved over the years in the effort to educate the
dental profession and the wastewater municipalities on this problem.
There are other issues that, once we are committed to Biological Dentistry, we can’t help
finding ourselves involved with as well. We won’t try to cover them all here, but two of them are
fluoridation and root canal treatments. With these, as with many other issues, we find ourselves
in a “minority” position with respect to most of the dental profession.
Fluoride and fluoridation
finding ourselves involved with as well. We won’t try to cover them all here, but two of them are
fluoridation and root canal treatments. With these, as with many other issues, we find ourselves
in a “minority” position with respect to most of the dental profession.
Fluoride and fluoridation
The use of fluoride, and particularly fluoridation of drinking water, has been touted for the
last several decades as a huge boon to dental health. Dental societies and public health
agencies have vigorously promoted water fluoridation as one of the most beneficial public health
policies ever. We think, however, that the wool has been pulled over the eyes of the public and
the dental profession alike.
last several decades as a huge boon to dental health. Dental societies and public health
agencies have vigorously promoted water fluoridation as one of the most beneficial public health
policies ever. We think, however, that the wool has been pulled over the eyes of the public and
the dental profession alike.
We are convinced that an objective, careful look at the relevant science shows that the
toxic properties of fluoride have been seriously overlooked, while the “benefits” of fluoridation
have been hugely overstated, to say the least. Our office has produced a Fluoride Position
Paper which is available from our office or to download from our website (www.drpaulrubin.com)
which elaborates on this stand. To state it simply, fluoride is poisonous and probably doesn’t
even work! In addition to the above mentioned paper, you can also download a position paper
from the IAOMT at www.iaomt.org. Another valuable website with a vast amount of information
is Fluoride Action Network, at www.fluoridealert.ofg. We strongly disagree with most of what is
presented in the American Dental Association’s publication, “Fluoride Facts” (2005), but you
may want to look at that as an example of the more traditional viewpoint, www.ada.org. We do
not provide “fluoride treatments” in our office, we do not support public water fluoridation, and
we do not prescribe fluoride supplements.
toxic properties of fluoride have been seriously overlooked, while the “benefits” of fluoridation
have been hugely overstated, to say the least. Our office has produced a Fluoride Position
Paper which is available from our office or to download from our website (www.drpaulrubin.com)
which elaborates on this stand. To state it simply, fluoride is poisonous and probably doesn’t
even work! In addition to the above mentioned paper, you can also download a position paper
from the IAOMT at www.iaomt.org. Another valuable website with a vast amount of information
is Fluoride Action Network, at www.fluoridealert.ofg. We strongly disagree with most of what is
presented in the American Dental Association’s publication, “Fluoride Facts” (2005), but you
may want to look at that as an example of the more traditional viewpoint, www.ada.org. We do
not provide “fluoride treatments” in our office, we do not support public water fluoridation, and
we do not prescribe fluoride supplements.
“Endodontic” or “root canal” treatment is another area of current controversy. The
rationale for this treatment is to save teeth where the “nerve” or “pulp” of the tooth has become
irreversibly damaged or infected and cannot recover. The only other option is to extract the
tooth. Of course, dentists are always in favor of saving teeth, but a biological dentist is more
concerned about saving the health of the patient. Root canal treatment clearly has saved
millions of teeth from extraction and allowed them to function comfortably and esthetically.
However, the question has arisen: at what cost?
rationale for this treatment is to save teeth where the “nerve” or “pulp” of the tooth has become
irreversibly damaged or infected and cannot recover. The only other option is to extract the
tooth. Of course, dentists are always in favor of saving teeth, but a biological dentist is more
concerned about saving the health of the patient. Root canal treatment clearly has saved
millions of teeth from extraction and allowed them to function comfortably and esthetically.
However, the question has arisen: at what cost?
Again, this is a long and complex story. We have another “Fact Sheet” about root canals
that tells a little more complete picture. The short version is this: Teeth that have been treated
with root canal treatment, even when the treatment looks and feels “successful” from all
traditional criteria, still may harbor residual toxins that can enter the body via the porosity of the
root structure. The original research calling attention to this was done by Dr. Weston Price in the
1920’s or so. His work is summarized well in Dr. George Meinig’s book, Root Canal Coverup
Exposed. Very little modern research has been applied to this question. The one outstanding
exception is work done by Dr. Boyd Haley and Dr. Curt Pendergrass, which can be seen on the
IAOMT website.
that tells a little more complete picture. The short version is this: Teeth that have been treated
with root canal treatment, even when the treatment looks and feels “successful” from all
traditional criteria, still may harbor residual toxins that can enter the body via the porosity of the
root structure. The original research calling attention to this was done by Dr. Weston Price in the
1920’s or so. His work is summarized well in Dr. George Meinig’s book, Root Canal Coverup
Exposed. Very little modern research has been applied to this question. The one outstanding
exception is work done by Dr. Boyd Haley and Dr. Curt Pendergrass, which can be seen on the
IAOMT website.
The questions that arise from this are: 1) should root canal treatments be done at all (the
alternative being extraction of the tooth), and 2) are existing root canal treated teeth a health
risk and should they be extracted? At the present time, we don’t feel these questions have a
clear, black-and-white answer. The IAOMT has a standing committee on endodontic concerns,
and they have also been wrestling with this issue. Currently, they still have no consensus on the
simple, core question: root canals- yes or no? We always discuss this individually on a case by
case basis with our patients.
alternative being extraction of the tooth), and 2) are existing root canal treated teeth a health
risk and should they be extracted? At the present time, we don’t feel these questions have a
clear, black-and-white answer. The IAOMT has a standing committee on endodontic concerns,
and they have also been wrestling with this issue. Currently, they still have no consensus on the
simple, core question: root canals- yes or no? We always discuss this individually on a case by
case basis with our patients.
It is estimated that over three fourths of the adult American population show some signs
of periodontal (gum) disease. This may range from mild inflammation of the gums to advanced,
destructive infection. Medicine is now recognizing the correlation between periodontal disease
and other health problems. Chief among them is heart disease. Periodontal infection is now
conclusively linked as a high risk factor for some types of heart disease. It is also considered a
risk factor for some forms of ulcers, arthritis, premature low birth weight babies, and more. The
good news is that there have been advances in the understanding of the multiple causes of
periodontal disease, and more effective ways of controlling it. It needs to be treated as an
infectious process. Many traditional, surgical approaches of the past have been shown to be
rather ineffective long term.
of periodontal (gum) disease. This may range from mild inflammation of the gums to advanced,
destructive infection. Medicine is now recognizing the correlation between periodontal disease
and other health problems. Chief among them is heart disease. Periodontal infection is now
conclusively linked as a high risk factor for some types of heart disease. It is also considered a
risk factor for some forms of ulcers, arthritis, premature low birth weight babies, and more. The
good news is that there have been advances in the understanding of the multiple causes of
periodontal disease, and more effective ways of controlling it. It needs to be treated as an
infectious process. Many traditional, surgical approaches of the past have been shown to be
rather ineffective long term.
A variety of non-surgical approaches to therapy are now being used. They may include
such things as laser treatment, irrigation under the gums with antibacterial products, supportive
nutritional supplements, and others. Use of a phase contrast microscope to examine live plaque
samples from our patients has been an invaluable tool in diagnosing and monitoring periodontal
health. We believe it is crucial to monitor the microscopic environment since periodontal disease
is largely a microbial problem. Home care techniques may be very different from what most
people have been used to. Treatment is aimed at creating a healing environment for the tissues
to return to a more complete and stable state of health.
such things as laser treatment, irrigation under the gums with antibacterial products, supportive
nutritional supplements, and others. Use of a phase contrast microscope to examine live plaque
samples from our patients has been an invaluable tool in diagnosing and monitoring periodontal
health. We believe it is crucial to monitor the microscopic environment since periodontal disease
is largely a microbial problem. Home care techniques may be very different from what most
people have been used to. Treatment is aimed at creating a healing environment for the tissues
to return to a more complete and stable state of health.
Many of the old ways just don’t work very well, including the almost universal
recommendation to have your teeth “cleaned” every six month with the dental hygienist. An
individualized assessment of what really is appropriate for each patient is very important.
In summary, we have moved away from the often cavalier attitude that something works
well simply because we’ve always done it that way. Many techniques, materials and attitudes of
dentistry of the past need to be reassessed in light of their effect on the individual as a whole
person. That is the aim of biological dentistry, and we will continue to strive toward that. We
always welcome your questions and comments, and will always try to stay current on all that is
going on in this field worldwide.
recommendation to have your teeth “cleaned” every six month with the dental hygienist. An
individualized assessment of what really is appropriate for each patient is very important.
In summary, we have moved away from the often cavalier attitude that something works
well simply because we’ve always done it that way. Many techniques, materials and attitudes of
dentistry of the past need to be reassessed in light of their effect on the individual as a whole
person. That is the aim of biological dentistry, and we will continue to strive toward that. We
always welcome your questions and comments, and will always try to stay current on all that is
going on in this field worldwide.
The Poison in Your Teeth, by Dr. Tom McGuire. Available in our office or through Dr. McGuire’s
Dental Wellness Institute at www.dentalwellness4u.com.
Dental Wellness Institute at www.dentalwellness4u.com.
Mercury Detoxification, by Dr. Tom McGuire (available on his website)
Various other articles, links and downloads available from the International Academy of Oral
Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) at www.iaomt.org.
Various other articles, links and downloads available from the International Academy of Oral
Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) at www.iaomt.org.
9730 3rd Ave. NE Suite 205
Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: (206) 367-4712
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