MERCURY DEBATE CONTINUES:  But, What is the Real Truth?
Q&A with Ruby Ann Dollins, DDS

Q.  Should I remove my amalgam fillings?

There are several arguments concerning the removal of old or cracked fillings.  First of all, if they are metal amalgam fillings, the fact is, they should be replaced, and there are several reasons.  Probably the most important reason is that when amalgams age, they have the possibility of breaking off and large portions may be swallowed unknowingly.

Additionally, older fillings release greater amounts of mercury vapors as you chew, and if you are susceptible or vulnerable, the problems can have a greater impact.  This is especially true in pregnant women because her infant shares the same blood and same toxic residues as the mother. 

Then in our senior population, we often see the accumulation of toxins putting too much stress on the nervous system and resulting in more vulnerability.  Then, we have many people who have become sensitive or allergic to metals can disrupt not only their nervous system functions but impair any other system in the body and brain. 

Another concern that must be considered is the impact of combinations of metals in the mouth with acidic saliva, creating a battery-effect.  There are many possible health challenges that amalgams contribute to, but the determination to remove the fillings is purely a personal one that should not be made without careful investigation, selecting a conscientious dentist who is specially trained in removal. Laboratory tests, proper preparation and detoxification, oxygen, Vitamin C, a rubber dam, with proper vacuum removal of toxic residues are extremely important!

Many dentists remove mercury without any special training in biological dentistry.  Many dentists advertise that they have mercury-free fillings available, but you can’t get the right answers if you don’t know the right questions to ask! 

Q.  How do I choose a doctor and dentist?

This is a very personal thing.  What I find often over-looked or ignored is the importance of researching and becoming informed prior to choosing the dentist.  Many dentists will remove mercury. After all, removal and replacement is basic to dental school training.  What is NOT basic, however, is biological dental training.  This is very different and specialized training.  If you are not using a biological dentist to remove your amalgams, you will probably not have them removed properly or safely. 

It is essential that you do independent investigation.  There are many good books on this subject, and many excellent websites where you can get information and referrals.  It is important that you find a dentist who is certified in biological dentistry and uses the Clifford test to identify the materials to which you are compatible, uses a rubber dam, oxygen and a sealed vacuum system during the removal process, and takes the time to answer all your questions and follows up on your progress.

Q. How many fillings do I remove at one time?

This is determined on an individual basis, factoring in several things, including your health and individual constitution. One of the most important things that must be discussed is information only you can provide to the dentist. For example, if you are suffering from cancer, MS or any other serious illness, you may be asked to see a naturopath or medical doctor and obtain some additional testing prior to any mercury removal. 

For some it may be suggested to wait, to build up the health and detoxify for longer periods of time before or between mercury removal. There are different opinions and schools of thought regarding the “staging” of removal and reconstruction.  DAMS recommends only removing two fillings per session or staying in the chair no longer than two hours. Huggins recommends doing one quadrant every six months or so.   Some of the dentists want to take out all of the fillings in one visit to cause as little trauma as possible, and then plan for an extended healing period.

This is a case-by-case decision, and only you know what your pocket book, lifestyle and body can stand. This is why consultations may be lengthy and require longer visits.  There are no easy answers and what works for one may not work for another.  Once again, it depends on how sick you are and your particular needs.  As a dentist, I often ask my clients to obtain the EPFX-SCIO Dental Scan prior to any dental treatment.  In other cases, I ask clients to see an oral surgeon, prior to any dental treatment. One woman was so toxic and poisoned, I was fearful for her life if she didn't get all of her amalgams out as soon as possible.

This interview with Dr. Dollins will continue in each issue of HEALTHY TIMES.  Please send any questions you would like to see covered in future articles through our website: wwwmakeoverdental.com. Please see ad on the back page of this issue.