Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal, Cary
Mercury is the second most toxic element known to man, and can pose health risks to patients. At Holistic Dental Centers, we specialize in safe mercury removal.
We are trained to safely remove mercury fillings from patients’ mouths so that they are not exposed to harmful vapors during the process. To do this, we use rubber dams, high-efficiency air filtration systems, high-volume evacuation, high volumes of water, and precise gross removal of metal. We also work with physicians who offer chelation therapy, the process of removing metal toxins from the cellular level.
About Amalgam (Mercury Fillings)

Amalgam (often called silver fillings) typically consists of five different metals, with the largest content being mercury. The other metals present are silver, copper, tin, and zinc. Mercury is roughly 45-54% of the amalgam.
There are many reasons for amalgam removal. One is medically diagnosed mercury (or other heavy metal) toxicity – probably the most hotly debated subject in dentistry and medicine. Another reason is to assure the structural integrity of teeth. Metal fillings cause long-term fractures of teeth, which may lead to root canal therapies and extractions. Some patients request amalgam removal for cosmetic reasons.
When removing mercury fillings, we observe the same protocols without regard to the reason for removal. Observing safe mercury removal protocols is essential to both the safety of the patient as well as to the practitioner and staff. We know that when amalgam (mercury) fillings are removed, there is significant vaporization of mercury. Care must be taken to prevent breathing contaminated air, as well as ingesting amalgam particles.
Protocol for Mercury Removal
We work closely with physicians to allow the patient to be in the best cellular health possible before removal. We also offer referrals to local physicians who provide IV Vitamin C after the removal of amalgams. In addition to this natural aid in protection from Mercury that is absorbed, we use a non-latex rubber dam, high volumes of water, high-volume extraction, negative ion generators, high efficiency air filtration and air exchange. We also follow the Huggins protocol of mercury removal.
Biocompatibility for Mercury Removal & Replacement
With patients more and more aware of the toxicity of our environment, there are more people asking about what materials are being used. We agree with this approach and offer outside laboratory compatibility testing for patients wanting to restore their mouths with safer materials. Everyone has their unique reactivity to foreign materials, so without a compatibility test, it is only a guess as to what material should be placed in your mouth.

Dr. Carl McMillan
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Dr. Carl McMillan is a distinguished holistic dentist with over 20 years of experience. A Medical University of South Carolina's College of Dental Medicine graduate, he founded Holistic Dental Centers to offer safe, biological dental care in North Carolina. Dr. McMillan is a charter member of the International Academy of Mercury Free Dentists and a past president of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. His commitment to patient education and holistic care reflects his dedication to evidence-based, harm-free dental practices. Known for treating every patient with respect and care, Dr. McMillan is a trusted leader in his field.

Dr. Luis Crespo
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Dr. Luis Crespo, a holistic dentist with 17 years of experience, has profoundly impacted underserved communities worldwide, from Guatemala to Tibet. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from West Virginia University in 2000 and is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. Dr. Crespo integrates his holistic health and nutrition expertise into his practice, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being. His bilingual skills and commitment to educating patients and promoting early dental care reflect his dedication to both public health and preventive medicine.
