For many people, replacing old amalgam (silver) fillings is not just a cosmetic choice; it’s a health decision. Dental amalgam contains mercury, a heavy metal that can release vapour when drilled or removed improperly. At Gold Coast Holistic Dental Care, we understand that safe amalgam removal is essential not only for your teeth but for your overall well-being.
That’s why we follow a strict, internationally recognised, mercury-safe protocol designed to protect you, our team, and the environment during the removal process. Whether you are experiencing sensitivity, want a more biocompatible alternative, or are concerned about long-term exposure, our holistic approach ensures your health is supported at every stage.
In this blog, we outline why safe amalgam removal matters, explain the holistic protocol we use in our Gold Coast clinic, and share the additional wellness therapies that support detoxification and recovery.
Why Consider Removing Amalgam Fillings?
Amalgam fillings have been used for decades, but they come with drawbacks:
Dental amalgam is approximately 50% elemental mercury. Although stable when intact, drilling or polishing can release mercury vapour.
Over time, metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, causing small fractures that can lead to breaks, decay, or the need for crowns.
Composite resin and ceramic restorations look natural and avoid the use of metals.
Those with immune sensitivities, chronic inflammation, chronic fatigue, or other conditions may choose to avoid heavy metals in dental materials.
At Gold Coast Holistic Dental Care, we never pressure patients into removal — instead, we focus on education, safety, and empowerment so you can make the right choice for your health.
We follow a modified version of the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) approach, recommended by leading biological dentistry organisations worldwide. This ensures amalgam is removed with minimal mercury exposure to both you and our clinical team.
Here is what you can expect:
Before scheduling removal, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
Dental examination
Assessment of current restorations
Medical and health history
Immune and detox considerations
Discussion of materials sensitivity
If needed, we may refer you to our in-house naturopath to ensure your body is supported for detoxification before treatment.
During removal, we use multiple layers of protection to prevent mercury exposure:
An isolated rubber dam to block particles from entering the mouth
Medical-grade oxygen supply to avoid inhalation of vapour
Protective gowns, masks, and eyewear for both patient and staff
Air purification, suction and filtration systems to capture vapour
These measures significantly reduce the chance of inhalation or ingestion of mercury particles.
We use high-powered external vacuums and internal suction devices that capture vapours at the tooth surface. Our clinic maintains:
Triple-stage air filtration
Clean-air circulation
Specialised amalgam separators to protect the environment
This is a key part of maintaining a mercury-safe environment.
Rather than drilling out the entire filling, which would release more vapour, we gently section the amalgam into large chunks and remove it in pieces.
This minimises:
Heat
Friction
Vapour release
Aerosols
The process is more comfortable, safer, and quicker than traditional methods.
Ozone water (Ozone Therapy) helps disinfect the area and naturally neutralise pathogens. It also supports the healing of surrounding tissue without chemicals.
Once the amalgam is removed, we use non-toxic, mercury-free, BPA-free restoration materials such as:
Composite resin
Ceramic restorations
Inlays or onlays for larger fractures
Every material is chosen to be gentle, durable, and suited to your individual biocompatibility needs.
One of the biggest differences between traditional dentistry and our holistic approach is how much emphasis we place on supporting your whole body before, during, and after amalgam removal.
We offer a range of integrated wellness services to promote detoxification and immune support:
Our naturopath can assess your detox pathways, support liver function, recommend supplements, and help prepare your system before removal.
Infrared therapy encourages sweating and helps release toxins naturally. Many patients use sauna sessions before and after treatment.
Supports the nervous system, circulation, and detox organs, helping to reduce stress and tension during the process.
Addresses jaw tension, posture, and nervous system regulation — important for patients who clench from anxiety or have TMJ issues.
Enhance lymphatic flow and support overall well-being as the body clears toxins.
Helps oxygenate tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of the treated area.
These services are optional but highly beneficial for patients wanting the most holistic experience possible.
Many patients do — and for good reason.
A naturopath can help:
Support liver and kidney detox pathways
Reduce inflammation
Strengthen the immune system
Prepare the body for mercury exposure
Recommend pre-removal nutritional support
Assist with post-removal detox and recovery
Every naturopathic plan is tailored to what your body specifically needs.
Yes — when performed with the correct protective protocols.
What matters most is choosing a dentist who understands:
Mercury exposure risks
Strict barriers and safety standards
Whole-body health implications
Biocompatible replacement materials
At Gold Coast Holistic Dental Care, this is our everyday practice.
We are leaders in holistic, biocompatible dentistry
We prioritise your long-term wellbeing, not just the tooth
We use enhanced mercury-safe protection protocols
We offer full wellness integration under one roof
We treat patients with sensitivity, chronic illness, and immune concerns
Our team is experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate
Your health is always the centre of our treatment philosophy.
If you’re considering replacing old metal fillings, our experienced holistic team is here to guide you safely and naturally.
Gold Coast Holistic Dental Care, your local holistic, biocompatible and integrative dental clinic on the Gold Coast.
Contact our friendly team today or book your appointment online to learn more about our SMART-inspired amalgam removal protocol and whole-body wellness approach.
Our Location:
3027 The Boulevard, Carrara QLD, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm
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