Dentistry today goes beyond looking at just teeth, because the oral cavity is a reflection of the body’s well-being. At the Halifax Center for Holistic and Cosmetic Dentistry, the family dental practice of Dr. Pentti Nupponen, the focus is on holistic dentistry and its impact on overall health.

In 1993, he stopped placing “silver” amalgam restorations when his patients pointed out the dangers of the mercury they contain. Motivated by their concern for his health, he became concerned about the well-being of his patients and staff, and turned to holistic dentistry methods in order to establish a toxin-free office.

As a member and past president of the Holistic Dental Association (HDA), International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), International Academy of Biological Dentistry and Medicine (IABDM), and Institute of Natural Dentistry (IND), Nupponen knows that overall health is very much related to proper nutrition and the health of the mouth.

Mercury is the second-most toxic of the non-radioactive elements on Earth, and silver amalgam fillings contain at least 50 percent elemental mercury. According to the IAOMT––the leading, nonprofit coalition of mercury-free dentists worldwide that encourages efforts to end the use of dental mercury––mercury vapor is constantly emitted from dental fillings, accumulating in the body over time.

Dental amalgam fillings expose people to a larger dose of mercury that any other source, including fish. Studies demonstrate that even low levels of mercury cause measurable adverse health effects to immune, respiratory, cardiac, digestive and urinary systems, but they may not manifest for years or even decades.

Research shows that the number of amalgam fillings in the teeth of an expectant mother is significantly correlated with mercury in the tissues of the fetus. Newborns may even be at risk for learning disabilities due to mercury their mothers absorb during pregnancy through air, water and food sources.

When an amalgam filling is drilled out, a cloud appears that contains mercury particles measuring one-half to one micron that easily penetrate the standard blue masks that dentists and dental assistants wear for protection.

With a mission to deliver the highest quality dental care, using materials and methods most conducive to the overall health of the patient, Nupponen and his team follow the IAOMT guidelines for the safe removal of amalgam fillings, wear specialized masks and take precautions on behalf of the patients. The replacement, tooth-colored composite restorations laser-bonded to the teeth, are strong, durable and 100 percent mercury-free. Patients are encouraged to detoxify their bodies after mercury amalgam fillings have been removed, and one way to do that is by using Bentonite clay.

According to the IAOMT, three European Union institutions––the Council of the European Union, European Parliament and European commission––reached a provisional agreement in December 2016 to ban dental amalgam fillings by July 1, 2018, for children under the age of 15, and pregnant and breastfeeding women.

“Mercury is toxic, and its use in all silver-colored dental fillings has been linked to environmental harm, as well as increased risks of Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, infertility, anxiety, depression, fatigue and many other adverse health conditions,” explains IAOMT President Dr. Tammy DeGregorio. “Viable alternatives to these fillings have existed for decades. It’s crucial for all of the world to follow Europe’s lead and take action to restrict dental mercury and even more efficiently, to end its use entirely.”

A study completed in September 2015 by the Journal of American Dental Association (JADA), “Accessing Occupational Elemental Mercury Exposure in U.S. Dentists,” came to the following conclusion: “Our results suggest a positive association between [mercury] exposure and tremors.” In this context, tremors mean progressive, irreversible brain damage.

As an international speaker, Nupponen travels more than ever delivering presentations to dentists and physicians about using alternatives to amalgam fillings. “When I realized that my patients saved my life and my health by educating me, not only was I grateful for them, I decided to spread the word. I love thinking outside of a box because I see patients are getting better and healthier, and that is why I love to be a dentist,” enthuses Nupponen.

The Halifax Center for Holistic and Cosmetic Dentistry is located at 207 Market St., in Halifax. For more information, call 717-896-3911 or 800-929-2844 or visit HalifaxDentistry.com.

Gisele Rinaldi Siebold is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings South Central edition. Connect with her at [email protected].