Millions of Americans have silver fillings in their mouths, and more are questioning whether it is time to have them removed. Whether you are concerned about the mercury content, your filling is aging, or you simply want a cleaner, more natural-looking smile, understanding what the removal process involves and what it costs will help you make an informed decision.
At Ocean Breeze Implant & Esthetic Dentistry in Delray Beach, Dr. Nicholas Goetz and our team provide metal-free filling options for patients who are ready to replace their old amalgam restorations with safer, tooth-colored alternatives. As a maxillofacial prostodontist who completed his specialty residency and fellowship training at the University of Florida and UCLA, Dr. Goetz brings a high level of restorative knowledge to every case.
Why Patients Are Choosing Mercury Filling Removal
Dental amalgam fillings have been used for well over a century because of their durability and low cost. However, those fillings contain approximately 50% mercury, and growing awareness of the potential health implications has driven more patients to ask about removal. The FDA now recommends that certain high-risk groups avoid dental amalgam whenever possible. These groups include pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant, nursing mothers and their newborns, children younger than six, and people with pre-existing neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, or Parkinson’s disease.
Even for patients outside those groups, the desire to move away from metal restorations is a valid and common reason to seek removal. Composite resin fillings bond directly to the tooth structure, require less removal of healthy tooth, and blend naturally with the surrounding enamel, making them a popular alternative for patients in Delray Beach and throughout South Florida.
How Much Does Mercury Filling Removal Cost?
What affects the price
The cost of mercury filling removal varies depending on several factors specific to your mouth and the condition of each tooth. Before any treatment begins, we will perform a thorough exam that includes x-rays and an intraoral evaluation to assess the number, size, location, and current condition of your amalgam fillings.
For a straightforward removal where the underlying tooth structure is in good shape, the cost of replacing an amalgam filling with a composite restoration typically ranges from $250 to $800 per tooth. If the filling is large or if decay has developed around it, more extensive restoration may be needed, such as an inlay, onlay, or dental crown, which can bring the total per tooth to $1,500 or more. Patients with multiple amalgam fillings often find it makes sense to phase treatment by quadrant to manage both time and cost effectively.
A note on insurance
Most dental PPO plans cover a portion of filling replacements, though coverage for the removal of intact amalgam specifically can vary. We recommend reviewing your plan details before your appointment. While we are not in-network with insurance companies, we file claims on your behalf and assist you in securing any reimbursement your PPO plan allows. Our team can also walk you through available payment and financing options. You can find more detail on our financial information page.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your initial consultation
The process begins with a comprehensive exam. Dr. Goetz will review your x-rays, assess each amalgam filling, and discuss your goals and any concerns you have. This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand exactly what treatment will involve before committing to anything.
The removal appointment
During the removal itself, the tooth is isolated and carefully prepared before the old filling is sectioned and removed in a controlled manner to minimize mercury vapor exposure. The cavity is then cleaned and restored with a tooth-colored composite or ceramic material that matches the natural shade of your tooth. Most patients find the process straightforward and tolerable, comparable to having a standard filling placed.
After your appointment
Some mild sensitivity around the treated tooth is normal in the days following removal and typically resolves quickly. Dr. Goetz will provide specific post-care guidance based on your individual case. If a crown or onlay was placed, you may receive temporary instructions for the first 24 to 48 hours while the restoration settles.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Not every amalgam filling needs immediate removal. If your filling is intact and there is no decay or structural concern, the decision to remove it is a personal one worth discussing during a consultation. What matters most is that when you are ready to make a change, the work is done with precision and care by a provider who understands the full restorative picture.
Dr. Nicholas Goetz is among a select group of approximately 150 maxillofacial prostodontists in the United States, with advanced training in complex oral rehabilitation from the University of Florida and UCLA. When you come to our Delray Beach office, you are not just getting a filling replaced. You are getting a comprehensive evaluation from a provider who can anticipate what your tooth will need now and down the road.
If you are ready to learn more about replacing your mercury fillings with a safer, more natural-looking option, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team. Dr. Goetz and the Ocean Breeze Implant & Esthetic Dentistry team are here to help you feel confident in every decision you make about your smile.
