Holistic Dentistry Part 2

Holistic Dentistry Part 2



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Holistic dentistry and holistic dentists practice

Holistic dentistry and holistic dentists practice natural dentistry and biologic dentistry using mercury free fillings and integrative medicine. Find a mercury free dentist and use mercury free dentistry. Continue Reading >>

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Stay Away from "Holistic"

Stephen Barrett, M.D.

A significant number of dentists have gone overboard in espousing pseudoscientific theories, particularly in the area of nutrition. Dentists who identify themselves as "holistic" or "biological" typically claim that disease can be prevented by maintaining "optimum" overall health or "wellness."

In their offices, this typically involves inappropriate diagnostic tests, recommendations for expensive dietary supplements and/or homeopathic products; a plastic bite appliance; unnecessary replacement of amalgam fillings; and/or removal of root-canal-treated teeth. John E. Dodes, D.D.S., an expert on dental quackery, has remarked that "wellness" is "something for which quacks can get paid when there is nothing wrong with the patient. Continue Reading >>

Improving Overall Health Through Dentistry

Since 1978, the Holistic Dental Association has been providing support and guidance to practitioners of wholistic and alternative dentistry, as well as informing the public of the benefits of holistic dentistry for their health and well-being. Our purpose is to provide information and guidance to those persons seeking to participate in their own health care and to help in the continuing education of practitioners who have a desire to expand their knowledge and awareness. Continue Reading >>

Natural Dental Health

“The terms oral health and general health should not be interpreted as separate entities. Oral health is integral to general health: oral health means more than healthy teeth and you cannot be healthy without oral health.” —Donna Shalala, Secretary of Health and Human Services, in Oral Health America: A Report of the Surgeon General, 2000

The renouned German physician Dr. Reinhard Voll estimated that nearly 80% of all illness is related entirely or partially to problems in the mouth. The reason the teeth are such a threat to health is that, in addition to their connection to every organ and gland in the body, they can harbor infections without symptoms. There's no pain or discomfort. Yet, there may be chronic infection eroding the body's immune response-wearing out the immune system. This infection is very difficult to detect. Few people today have escaped the problems of dental cavities and gum infection. About 98% of Americans have some areas of diseased gum tissue in their mouths, over half of these are also experiencing a progressive "bone loss." Fortunately, cavities and pyorrhea (gum disease and bone loss) are both 100% preventable and reversible.

The mouth is a hostile environment. It's warm, moist, and full of nutritient-laden saliva, decaying teeth, and soggy gums, which makes it a haven for bacteria. Teeth are subject to sudden changes of temperature created by extremes such as coffee and ice cream. Mechanical stresses challenge the mouth in the form of a combination of hard and soft foods. It is attacked chemically by foods that are highly acidic and highly alkaline with overtones of salinity and sugar. All these conditions provide corrosive influences, necessitating artificial replacements supplied by the dentist.

Mercury amalgam fillings are the major source of mercury exposure for the general public, at rates six-times higher than from fish and seafood. Continue Reading >>

Holistic Dentistry Comes of Age

By Zach Grillis

With the advent of holistic medicine and natural health in the western world it only makes sense that dentistry profession be a part of it. Rather than focus on one area of a person's body, holistic dentistry is concerned with the patient's overall health. Holistic dentistry is based on the same notion that what affects the mouth affects the body, and vice versa. Our bodies are a system and should be treated that way instead of just a group of parts.

For instance, one point of difference for a holistic dentist may be their treatment of toxic silver mercury fillings. Mercury is known to have long term negative effects on our body. So if someone needs work on a filling, even having it removed and replaced with a safer alternative, a holistic dentist would take precautions to ensure that you are not exposed to any gases emitted during and procedure an that you don't end up swallowing any either. A holistic dentist makes sure the water from his office is filtered of these hazardous waste products before they reach the municipal water system. Continue Reading >>

Here are a few samples of toxicity reactions to mercury/amalgam dental fillings and/or improvements after removing the fillings.

I found these post and email on the Internet. The names have beenremoved to protect confidentiality, but many of these posts can befound in various archives and WWW search engines.



Please not that this is only a small percentage of adverse reactions to mercury amalgams that have been posted to the Internet over the last several months. The adverse reactions posted to the Internet are only avery small percentage of the total adverse reactions reported to various groups. There are no official lists of adverse reactions as far as I know. Please join the AMALGAM mailing list and see the dental links and files on my home page for more information.

Adverse Reaction Samples From the Internet

Further scientific information can be found at Mercury Adverse Effects Web Page, 150 Year's of Russian Roulette Web Page, Alt Corp's Amalgam Page, and Bo Walhjalt's Mercury Articles Web Page. More information about removal, detoxification, and placement of composite fillings can be found at Bioprobe, Inc. and at the Preventive Dental Association.

more information about amalgam and toxins: http://www.dreddyclinic.com/integrated_med/amalgammercurydentalfilling.htm

Holistic Dentistry Part 1

Dr Gan is a holistic dentist. She introduced me into a completely new concept of health consciousness. Through this I was able to heal my long term allergy which was really making my life impossible.

Heavy Metal Toxicity and dental fillings removal

Heavy Metal Toxicity can be caused by mercury fillings. This video prepares your dental appointment with a holistic dentist or a general dentistry clinic.Fumes of heavy metal while being removed can make you more sick than ever before. Be prepared.

Chemical & Heavy Metal Cleanse Starter Kit $149.85 [ learn more ] The Chemical & Heavy Metal Starter Kit was designed by Dr. Group for individuals that are new to the cleansing process, or are simply looking for an easy-to-perform, cost effective cleanse program. The Heavy Metal Starter Kit is comprised of LIFE Detox Foot Patches™, NDF Plus™, and Quantum Zeolite™.

What causes gum disease. Periodontitis??

What causes gum disease. Periodontitis??

Journey to Holistic Dentistry

Dr. Flora Stay shares how she started a career in holistic dentistry after graduating from Dental School. An educational video exclusive on iHealthTube.

Tischler Dental: Holistic Dentistry in Woodstock, New York

Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbbxKchHW0Y

Over 50 years, Dr. Michael Tischler, cosmetic dentist of Tischler Dental in New York believes in the philosophy of treating the "whole person" -- that is, seeing your dental well being in the context of your overall health.

Here Dr. Tischler discusses how he entered the field of holistic dentistry and how subtle, non-invasive adjustments to a patient's teeth can alleviate chronic body pain.To learn more about Holistic Dentistry, visit http://www.tischlerdental.com

Holistic Dentistry

As people become increasingly concerned about medical techniques and learn more about alternative health procedures, a new field of dentistry has popped up. Known as holistic dentistry, this type of dentistry combines dental knowledge with procedures from a variety of medical systems that are designed to improve a person’s oral health. Rather than focus on one area of a person’s body, holistic dentistry is concerned with the patient’s overall health. Therefore, instead of focusing solely on a patient’s teeth, holistic dentists are concerned about the relationship between a person’s mouth and the rest of their body.

Also known as alternative dentistry or biological dentistry, holistic dentistry promotes a preventative approach to dentistry. Rather than dealing with dental concerns as they pop up, holistic dentists use techniques that are designed to avert common dental problems like tooth decay, tooth disease, and tooth loss. Spurning the traditional dental goal of creating aesthetically pleasing quick fixes to dental problems, holistic dentistry is concerned about the effect of the mouth to the overall balance and harmony of the patient’s body. Believing that an imbalance in any part of a person’s body can lead to health problems in other parts of the body, holistic dentists are concerned with fully correcting any dental problem so that this health problem will not spread to other parts of the body.

The differences between holistic dentistry and traditional dentistry can be seen in their approaches to orthodontic dentistry. Orthodontic dentistry is a dental specialization that deals with problems of tooth alignment and bite problems. In traditional dentistry, the goal is to straighten out any teeth to create a visibly attractive and seemingly healthy set of teeth. However, holistic dentists feel that this view of orthodontic dentistry is not enough and can lead to further health problems. Rather than just limiting orthodontic treatment to teeth straightening, holistic dentists will use a practice known as orthopedic orthodontics in which they will ensure that the muscles of the patient’s face and the patient’s head and neck are properly aligned. By engaging in this practice, holistic dentists are not simply limited themselves to treating an oral condition but are creating preventative solutions to problems that may affect the patient’s jaw, head, neck, and spine.

Additionally, holistic dentistry strongly promotes alternative dental treatments from potentially toxic dental treatments that are used in traditional dentistry. An example of this is the issue of anesthesia that is used in dentistry. Anesthesia is a vital component to many dental procedures and is designed to help the patient feel as little discomfort during extensive dental work.

Whereas, traditional dentistry uses strong forms of anesthesia, holistic dentistry attempts to utilize as many natural forms of anesthesia as they can. One popular method of anesthesia that is used in holistic dentistry is acupuncture anesthesia. In this method, tiny acupuncture needles are placed at various points of a patient’s body prior to and during the dental procedure. This approach to anesthesia utilizes the patient’s body’s natural electrical system that produces the same effects as conventional anesthesia. This approach to using alternative, safer dental methods is also evident in holistic dentist’s attempts to minimize the use of mercury during dental treatment. Many holistic dentists feel that the convenient and diverse use of mercury is offset by its negative long-term effect on a person’s nervous system and immune system.
For an overview of holistic dentistry, it is important to view many of the beliefs held by holistic dentists.

Holistic dentists:
Believe that proper nutrition and healthy eating habits, which includes the avoidance of certain foods, is essential to oral health.

Caution against root canal treatment due to the belief that the bacteria that are trapped within the treated tooth can create further health problems by migrating to other area’s of the patient’s body, including vital organs.

Conduct biocompatibility tests to determine which restorative material is best suited to the needs of the individual patient.

Renounce the use of any unnatural and potentially toxic dental devices and treatments, which includes mercury fillings and fluoride treatment.

Study the balance and relationship between a patient’s mouth and the rest of their body.

What is Chelation?

Chelation is a term derived from the Greek chele, meaning "claw."
A chelation agent is a chemical agent that, like a claw, grabs and chemically bonds with metals or other minerals and toxins. Simply put, chelation is the process in which chemicals bind with minerals.

While chelation is a naturally occurring biological process (hemoglobin binds with iron to provide oxygen to tissues), synthesized chelation agents were first developed during World War II as a way to clear toxic metals from the body. Chemists discovered they could create a heterocycling ring of molecules which surround or "sequester" mineral molecules and carry them from the body through normal elimination.

This process of chelation actually removes unwanted metals from the bloodstream. In fact, chelation therapy is the only way to treat lead poisoning. But lead is not the only metal cleansed from the body through chelation. A chelation agent will also bind with most metals, mineral deposits, calcium-based plaques and other chemical toxins. Because of its positive impact on the bloodstream, chelation therapy has proven to benefit a number of medical conditions, including atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis.

What is EDTA?
EDTA chelation is a therapy by which repeated administrations of a weak synthetic amino acid (EDTA, ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid) gradually reduce atherosclerotic plaque and other mineral deposits throughout the cardiovascular system by literally dissolving them away.

EDTA, ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid, chelation has frequently been compared to a "Roto-Rooter®"; in the cardiovascular system, because it removes plaque and returns the arterial system to a smooth, healthy, pre-atherosclerotic state. A better metaphor might be "Liquid-Plumber®," because, where Roto-Rooter violently scrapes deposits off the interior surfaces of your plumbing with a rapidly rotating blade, Liquid-Plumber simply dissolves them away.

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A Comprehensive Review of Heavy Metal Detoxification and Clinical Pearls from 30 years of Medical Practice by Dietrich Klinghardt, MD.,Ph.D

A. Introduction:
Heavy Metals appear in the mammalian system because they have become part of our environment.

We are in a constant exchange with our environment which is goverened by the laws of osmosis.

If mercury is in the fish we eat, over time we have mercury in our system. We cannot keep our system pristine and clean, because we are seperated from our toxic environment only by semi-permeable membranes: skin and mucosal surfaces.

Maintaining relative cleanliness requires a number of inherentdetox systems to work overtime against the osmotic pressure of the incoming toxins. As the toxixity of our environment increases so does the osmotic pressure, pushing the often man- made poisons into our body.

Toxins almost never come alone. They come in synergistically acting package-deals. Mercury alone is toxic. Together with zinc it is many times more toxic, add in a little copper and silver, as in dental amalgam fillings and the detrimental effect to the body increases manyfold.

Together with mercaptan and thioether (dental toxins) the toxic amalgam effects grow exponentially.

Add in a little PCB and dioxin, as in fish, and the illness causing effect of the methyl mercury in fish increases manyfold. Toxicology is to a large degree the study of synergistic effects.

In synergy 1 plus 1 = 100. Heavy metals are primarily neurotoxins. There is a synergistic effect between all neurotoxins which is responsible for the illness producing effect.

Making the neurotoxin elimination a major part of my practice has been an amazing experience.

Many illnesses considered intractable respond when the related issues are successfully resolved.

What are Neurotoxins?

Neurotoxins are substances attracted to the mammalian nervous system. They are absorbed by nerve endings and travel inside the neuron to the cell body. On their way they distrupt vital functions of the nerve cell, such as axonal transport of nutrients, mitochondrial respiration and proper DNA transcription. The body is constantly trying to eliminate neurotoxins via the available exit routes: the liver, kidney, skin and exhaled air.

Detox mechanisms include acetylation, sulfation, glucuronidation, oxidation and others. The liver is most important in these processes. Here most elimination products are expelled with the bile into the small intestine and should leave the body via the digestive tract. However, because of the lipophilic/neurotropic nature of the neurotoxins, most are reabsorbed by the abundant nerve endings of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the intestinal wall. The ENS has more neurons than the spinal chord. From the moment of mucosal uptake the toxins can potentially take 4 different paths:

1. Neuronal uptake and via axonal transport to the spinal chord (sympathetic neurons) or brainstem (parasympathetics) – from here back to the brain.
2. Venous uptake and via the portal vein back to the liver
3. Lymphatic uptake and via the thoracic duct to the subclavian vein
4. Uptake by bowel bacteria and tissues of the intestinal tract

i) Heavy metals:
mercury, lead, cadmium, iron, manganese and aluminum (are the most common).Common Sources: metallic mercury vapor escapes from dental amalgam fillings (they contain about 50% mercury, the rest is zinc, silver copper, tin and trace metals). Cadmium: car fumes, cigarette smoke , pigment in oil paint Lead: outasing from-paint, residues in earth and food chain from time when lead was used in gasoline, contaminated drinking water Aluminum: cookware, drinking water

ii) Biotoxins:
such as tetanus toxin, botulinum toxin (botox), ascaridin (from intestinal parasites), unspecified toxins from streptococci, staphylococci, lyme disease, clamydia, tuberculosis, fungal toxins and toxins produced by viruses. Biotoxins are minute molecules (200-1000 kilodaltons) containing nitrogen and sulfur. They belong to a group of chemical messengers which microorganisms use to control the host´s immune system, host behaviour and the host´s eating habits.

iii) Xenobiotics (man-made environmental toxins):
such as dioxin, formaldehyde, insecticides, wood preservatives, PCBs etc.
iv) Food Preservatives, excitotoxins and cosmetics:
aspartame (diet sweeteners), MSG, many spices, food colourings, fluoride, methyl-andpropyl -paraben, etc.

Heavy Metal Toxicity
Metals can exist in the body with different kinds of chemical bonds and as different molecules. Mercury appears to be the king-pin in the cascade of events in which metals become pathogenic. Mercury can be present as metallic mercury (HgO), as mercury salt (e.g. mercury chloride – HG+), or as methyl mercury (HG++). Methyl mercury is 50 times more toxic than metallic mercury. Methyl-Hg is so firmly bound to the body that it has to be first reduced to HG+ before it can be removed from the cell. This is achieved with reducing agents (“antioxidants”) e.g. intravenous vitamin C and reduced glutathione.

To remove Hg-Salts or metallic Hg from the outside of the cell, other agents are useful Mercury belongs to a group of metals that oxidize in the presence of sulfur and form compounds with sulfur (sulfhydryl affinitive metals). Methyl mercury is already oxidized to its maximum and bound firmly to sulfur in the different proteins of the body. The following metals belong to the sulfhydryl affinitive group and respond to similar detoxification methods: Copper, arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury. Aluminum and iron for example would not respond a sulfur compound. Some detox agents have multiple mechanisms by which they bind to metals. The algal organism chlorella has over 20 known such mechanisms.

Other metals oxidize with oxygen. Iron turns to rust when oxidized. Rust is nontoxic to the body, whereas iron is. Iron overdose responds to a chemical called desferoximin (desferal). Aluminum responds to the same detoxification agent. A recent Japanese study showed that Chinese parsley, cilantro, is a powerful elimination agent for aluminum stored in bone and the brain.

Other facts:
· Some metals are extremely toxic, even in the most minute dose, whereas others have very low toxicity, even in high doses. However, dependent on the dose, all metals can become toxic to the body. Iron can cause severe oxidative damage, copper may compromise liver function and visual acuity, selenium and arsenic have been known to be used to murder people and so on.
· Most metals serve a functional role in the body. For example, selenium is needed in the enzyme that restores oxidized glutathione back to its functional form as reduced glutathione. Another important function of selenium is its role as a powerful antioxidant in preventing cancer.
· Some metals have a narrow physiological range. That means the difference between a therapeutic dose and toxic overdose is very small. Selenium is an example of this. Magnesium on the other hand has a wide physiological range and thus is more difficult to overdose.
· Some metals have no physiological function. Mercury, lead, aluminum are in this group. Even the smallest amounts have negative physiological-effects.
· biochemical individuality: some people may react more or less than others to the presence of heavy metals in the tissues. Some people may develop a severe chronic illness after exposure of a few molecules of mercury, whereas others may be more resistant to it. Genetic deficiencies in the enzymes responsible for the formation of the metallothioneins and glutathione production and reduction are examples.

Possible side-effects during heavy metal detox:
Every patient can be affected by metals in two ways:
1. Through their non-specific toxic effects
2. Through the system´s allergic reactions to the neurotoxins
Often these two distinctive types of symptoms cannot be easily distinguished. During a detox program, the patient may also temporarily become allergic to the various substances that help to carry out the toxins. This is based on a physiological mechanism called ‘operant conditioning’.

Every time the detoxifying substance is given, mercury emerges from its hiding places into the more superficial tissues of the body, where mercury can now be detected by the immune system. The immune system however is fooled into thinking that the detoxifying substance itself is the enemy. The immune system now starts to react to the detoxifying substance as if it was the mercury itself. This reaction typically resolves spontaneously after six weeks of not using the detox agent in question. This type of conditioned reflex can also be easily treated with simple techniques e.g. NAET, PK (APN), or by giving the detox substance in a homeopathic dilution for a few days. Often the basal membranes in the kidney will swell as a sign of the allergic reaction, causing low back pain, anuria or inability to concentrate urine.

Neuraltherapy or microcurrent stimulation of the kidneys quickly resolves the issue. Muscle aches indicate the redistribution of toxins into the connective tissue and an insufficient program. Depression, headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, seizures, increased pain levels indicate redistribution of metals into the CNS and an inappropriate detox program. Eye problems and tinnitus that occurs during detox indicates redistribution of metals into these organs and requires selective mobilization from these locations before the program is continued. I use a specific type of microcurrent for this purpose

Some recently published findings related to the metal issue:
Iron/mangnese: A recent paper on Parkinsons disease (Neurology June 10, 2003;60:1761-1766)revealedthat just by eating iron and manganese containing foods such as spinach or taking supplements containing Mn or Fe - the risk of developing PD increased almost 2 fold. This demonstrates that even dietary supplements or organically grown foods are amongst the possilbe culprits in metal toxixity.

Methylmercury:
There are two major sources:
1. mercury escaped from dental amalgam fillings is converted by oral and intestinal bacteria to methylmercury, which then is bound firmly to proteins and other molecules. Methyl mercury crosses the blodd brain barrier and the placental barrier leading to massive prenatal exposure. Earlier studies determined that over 90% of the common body burdon of Hg is from dental fillings. Recent studies show that eating fish is starting to compete with amalgam fillings for the leading position as a risk factor.
2.Seafood
A recent study (JAMA, April 2, 2003;289(13):1667-1674) revealed the following It is estimated that nearly 60,000 children each year are born at risk for neurological problems due to methylmercury exposure in the womb. One in 12 U.S. women of childbearing age have potentially hazardous levels of mercury in their blood as a result of consuming fish, according to government scientists. The U.S.FDA recommends that pregnant women and those who may become pregnant avoid eating shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tile fish known to contain elevated levels of methylmercury, an organic form of mercury. Nearly all fish contain some amount of methylmercury. Mercury accumulates in the system, so larger, longer-lived fish like shark or swordfish contain the highest amounts of mercury and pose the largest threat if eaten regularly.
The National Center for Policy Research for Women & Families published in May 2003, that the following fish are lowest in methyl mercury:
· Catfish (farmed)
· Blue Crab (mid-Atlantic)
· Croaker
· Fish Sticks
· Flounder (summer)
· Haddock
· Trout (farmed)
· Shrimp
The FDA also recommends these fish as safe to eat:
haddock, tilapia, wild alaskan salmon,and sole

Ethylmercury:
A recent quote from Boyd Haley, PhD: “our latest research clearly points to the ethylmercury exposureas being causal in autism. The tremendous enhancement of thimerosal toxicity by testosterone and the reduction of toxicity by estrogen explains the fact that 4 boys to 1 girl getting the disease and the fact thatthe bulk of severe autistics are boys. Most importantly, this autistic situation clearly shows that exposureto levels of mercury that many "experts" considered safe was capable of causing an epidemic of a neurological disease”.

B. Symptoms
Other authors have tried to specify typical symptoms for each metal. Because of the synergistic effects and simultaneous occurence of several toxins at the same time. The best source of literature on the effects of specific metals on the system are the old homeopathic textbooks ‘materia medica’ (Kent, Boericke).

I prefer to look at a client in a systemic way, not focussing on single issues . A manganese typical symptom (ie violent behaviour) may be a lot more worrysome in a given patient then their particular mercury related symptom (ie insomnia). However, the practical focus of detox should be almost always on the mercury first. If mercury is adressed appropriately, the manganese often leaves the body as a side effect of mercury detox. The opposite is not true.
Any illness can be caused by, or contributed to, or exagerated by neurotoxins. Here is a short list:
· Neurological problems: Fatigue, depression, insomnia, memory loss, blunting of the senses, chronic intractable pain (migraine, sciatica, CTS etc.), burning pain, paresthesia, strange intracranial sensations and sounds, numbness. Autism. Seizure disorder. Hyperactivity syndromes. Premature ejaculation and inorgasmia
· Emotional problems: inappropriate fits of anger and rage, timidness, passivity, bipolar disorder, frequent infatuation, addictions, depression, dark mood, obsession, psychotic behaviour, deviant behaviour, psychic attacks, inability to connect with god, etc.
· Mental problems: memory loss, thinking disorder, messy syndrome (cluttering), loss of intelligence, AD, premature aging
· GI problems: candida, food allergy, leaky gut syndrome, parasites, inflammatory bowel disease
· Orthopedic problems: joint arthritis, persisiting musculo-skeletal pain, fibromyalgia, TMD,recurrent osteopathic lesions
· Immunological disorders (autoimmune diseases, hypothyroid disorders, MS, ALS, Sjogen´s Syndrome, CFIDS, MCS etc.)
· Cardiovascular disorders ( vascular disease, arrythmias, angina, increased heartbeat)
· Cancer –mercury, arsenic, copper etc. can be a trigger
· ENT disorders: chronic sinusitis, tinnitus, glandular swelling,
· Eye problems: macular degeneration (dry and wet), optic neuritis, iritis, deteriorating eye sight, etc.)
· Internal medicine problems: kidney disease, hypertension, hypercholesterinemia, syndrome X
· OB/gyn: difficulties of pregnancy, impotence, uterine fibroids, infertility, etc.
C. Diagnosis:
· History of Exposure: (Did you ever have any amalgam fillings? How much fish do you eat and what kind? A tick bite? etc)
· Symptoms: (How is your short term memory? Do you have areas of numbness, strange sensations,etc)- A complete neurotoxin questionaire is available from AANT@425 462 1777
· Laboratory Testing: direct tests for metals: hair, stool, serum, whole blood, urine analysis,breath analysis
· Xenobiotics: fatty tissue biopsy, urine, breath analysis
· Indirect tests: cholesterol (increased while body is dealing with Hg), increased insulin sensitivity, creatinine clearance, serum mineral levels (distorted, while Hg is an unresolved issue), Apolipoprotein E 2/4, urine dip stick test: low specific gravity (reflects inability of kidneys to concentrate urine), persistently low urine ph (metals only go into solution in acidic environments - which supports detoxing), urine porphyrins
· Autonomic Response Testing: (Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt M.D., Ph.D.)
· BioEnergetic Testing (EAV, kinesiology etc.)
· Response to Therapeutic Trial
· Functional Acuity Contrast Test (measure of Retinal Blood Flow)
· Non-specific neurological tests: upper motor neuron signs (clonus, Babinski, hyperreflexia), abnormal nerve conduction studies, EMG etc . non-specific MRI/CT findings: brain atrophy as in AD, demyelination
· Several ‘challenge tests’ are used today. They generally involve measuring the urine metal content,then administering an oral or iv. mobilizing agent and re-mesuring the metal content in the urine after a few hours. Most well known is the DMPS challenge test: However, there is agreement amongst most researchers, that the urine Hg content does not reflect total body burdon – only the currently mobilizable portion of Hg in the endothelium and kidneys. If nothing comes out, there can still be detrimental but non-responsive amounts of Hg in the CNS, connective tissue and elsewhere.
· I have developed a simple approach that works well. I use autonomic response testing (muscle biofeedback) to determine what metal is stored where and what detox agents would be most suitable for this individual. I obtain a hair sample and have it analyzed. It may or may not show any toxic metals. Metals reach the root of the hair via the blood stream. Hair only can show those metals, that have been in the blood in the last 6 weeks. That means, hair only reflects acute toxicity or recently mobilized metals but not the true body burdon. Then we embark on the detox and mobilizing program. In 6 weeks another hair samle is send to the lab and analyzed. If for example manganese is now high, mercury starting to rise (mostly it is methyl Hg, that is reflected in hair), aluminum is at the same value as before, it means, that this program is starting to mobilize Mn ad Hg, but not Al.

Through minor adjustments and following the client closely, we observe as the levels in the hair may rise for months or years before returning to low or absent levels. That is the end point. At that time biochemical challenges with Ca EDTA, DMPS or DMSA can be valuabe to see if there are still hidden pockets of metals somewhere in the system that have been ovrlooked with the other methods. In general, the hair-mineral analysis is often overinterpreted. Hair minerals are a reflection of the toxic-metal induced distortion in mineral metabolism.

D. Treatment:
Why would we want to treat anyone at all? Is it really needed? Can the body not eliminate these toxins naturally on its own?

First we need to consider a multitude of risk factors, which influence later decisions:
Here is a short list of independent risk factors which can either cause accumulation of metals in an otherwise healthy body - or slow down, or inhibit the bodys own elimination processes.
· Genetics – Several genes are involved in coding for the production of inherent detox mechanisms. Example: ApoE being the major repair protein in neuronal damage and responsible for removing mercury from the intracellular environment.

There are 4 different subtypes, one of them making the individual prone to accumulating Hg: (Danik, M. and Poirier, J. Apolipoprotein E and lipid mobilizatin in neuronal membrane remodeling and its relevance to Alzheimer's disease. In: Brain Lipidsand Disorders in Biological Psychiatry, edited by Skinner, E.R.

Amsterdam:
Elsevier Science, 2002,p.53-66). Also well known and studied are the individual genetic differences in glutathione availability. Several companies in the Integrative Medicine Field are offering genetic testing today. So far my clinical results were not impressive when I based my detox program on genetic testing only.

· prior illnesses (i.e. kidney infections, hepatitis, tonsillitis etc.)
· surgical operations (scars often restrict the detoxifying abilities of whole body sections, such as the tonsillectomy scar with it´s effect on the superior cervical ganglion - restricting lymph drainage and blood flow from the entire cranium)
· medication or ´recreational´ drug use (overwhelming the innate detox mechanisms)
· emotional trauma, especially in early childhood. This issue is huge and almost never appropriately adressed
· social status (poor people may still drink contaminated water)
· high carbohydrate intake combined with protein malnutrition (especially in vegetarians)
· use of homeopathic mercury (may redistribute Hg into deeper tissues)
· food allergies (may block the kidneys, colon etc.)
· the patients electromagnetic environment (mobile phone use, home close to power lines etc.Omura showed that heavy metals in the brain act as micro antennae concentrating damaging electro smog in the brain)
· constipation
· compromise of head/neck lymphatic drainage (sinusitis, tonsil ectomy scars, poor dental occusion)
· number of dental amalgam fillings over the patients life-time, number of the patients mothers amalgam fillings

Detox Methods
There are many considerations in choosing detox agents. After choosing the appropriate agent for the individual client and particular metal and exact chemical form of it, we have to consider the body compartment where the metal is stored.

For example, the algae chlorella is ideal for removing virtually all toxic metals from the gut but has too little effect on mercury stored in the brain. Intravenous glutathione may reach the intracellular environment, even in the brain, but is fairly ineffective in removing mercury from the gut.

Each agent has a primary place of action, which determines when, how much and for how long it is used. Agents that have multiple effects on compounds of different metals in the various body compartments are the basis for our detox program. Most specific agents are used for special situations only.

High protein, mineral, fatty acid and fluid intake
Rationale:
· proteins provide the important precursors to the endogenous metal detox and shuttle agents, such as coeruloplasmin, metallothioneine, glutathione and others. The branched-chain amino acids in cow and goat whey have valuable independent detox effects. Amino acid supplements, especially with a concentrate of brached chain amino acids are valuable.

· Metals attach themselves only in places that are programmed for attachment of metal ions.

Mineral deficiency provides the opportunity for toxic metals to attach themselves to vacant binding sites.

A healthy mineral base is a prerequisite for all metal detox attempts (selenium, zinc, manganese, germanium, molybdenum etc.). Substituting minerals can detoxify the body by itself. Just as important are electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium), which help to transport toxic waste across the extracellular space towards the lymphatic and venous vessels.

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Amalgam / Mercury Dental Filling Toxicity

An often overlooked, but extremely important source of toxic material is the mercury from silver [mercury] amalgam fillings. Some people who are aware of the situation are confused by the mixture of information available. Unfortunately, statements from dental trade organizations and on a few poorly-researched news reports have muddled the situation.

Here are a few facts about mercury amalgam fillings:
Causes Damage to Brain in ChildrenIn February, 1998, a group of the world's top mercury researchers announced that mercury from amalgam fillings can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and immune system of children.

Amalgam Fillings Linked to Neurological Problems, Gastrointestinal Problems
The first large-scale epidemiological study of mercury and adverse reactions was recently completed and showed that of the symptoms looked at, there was a link seen to gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances, concentration problems, memory disturbances, lack of initiative, restlessness, bleeding gums and other mouth disorders.

Mercury / Alzheimer's Disease Connection Found
A study related to mercury and Alzheimer's Disease was recently completed by a team of scientists led by well-respected researcher Dr. Boyd Haley. They exposed rats to levels of mercury vapor diluted to account for size differences between humans and rats. The rats developed tissue damage "indistinguishable" from that of Alzheimer's Disease.

Repeating the experiment showed the same results. Dr. Haley is quoted as saying "I'm getting the rest of my fillings taken out right now, and I've asked my wife to have hers replaced too." Also see: http://www.holistic-dentistry.com/artalzeimer.asp

Amalgam Fillings Since 1970s Unstable
The type of mercury fillings that began to be used during the last couple of decades, non-gamma-2 (high copper), releases many times more mercury than the older style of amalgam fillings. Also, please see the article on the instability of dental amalgam fillings by Ulf Bengsston.

Amalgam Fillings Release Highly Toxic Elemental MercuryMercury is one of the most toxic substances known. The mercury release from fillings is absorbed primarily as highly toxic elemental mercury vapor.

Amalgam Fillings Largest Source of Mercury
By FarBased on a number of studies in Sweden, the World Health Organization review of inorganic mercury in 1991 determined that mercury absorption is estimated to be approximately four times higher from amalgam fillings than from fish consumption. Recent studies have confirmed this estimate. The amount absorbed can vary considerably from person to person.

Gold Crowns, Gum, Bruxism, Computer Monitors Increase Release of Mercury Significantly
Gum chewing, grinding of teeth/bruxism, computer terminal exposure, presence of gold fillings or gold crowns (even if covering mercury fillings), teeth brushing, braces, and chewing cause the release of significantly increased amounts of mercury from the fillings.

Also, please see the following short review related to increases in mercury exposure from dissimilar metals in the mouth, exposure to magnetic fields, chewing, etc.

Cumulative Poison and Builds Up in OrgansMercury released from fillings builds up in the brain, pituitary, adrenals, and other parts of the body.

Mercury Amalgam Fillings Effect Porphyrins
Preliminary results from the first detailed biochemical analysis (scroll half-way down) of patients who removed mercury amalgam fillings showed a significant drop in the excretion of porphyrins (important to heme synthesis -- heme carries oxygen to red blood cells), as well as a number of other key biochemical changes. Also, see the Video of the preliminary results from the study.

Potential Contribuatory Factor in Other Diseases
Mercury from amalgam fillings has been implicated as a possible contribuatory factor in some cases of multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, IBS, reproductive disorders, allergies, and a variety of other illnesses.

Mercury Build Up in Brain, Organs and Breast Milk of Fetuses of Mothers With Amalgam FillingsMercury from fillings in pregnant women has been shown to cause mercury accumulation in brain, kidneys and liver of human fetuses (all of the areas tested). Studies have shown that mercury can be passed to infants from breast milk.

Proper Removal of Fillings Produces Eventual Health Improvement
A recent study published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine related to the proper removal of mercury amalgam fillings from 118 subjects showed an elimination or reduction or 80% of the classic mercury poisoning symptoms. In many cases, it took 6 to 12 months after mercury amalgam removal for the symptoms to disappear.

World-reknowned Experts Agree About Potential Danger
In contrast to statements from dental trade organizations, toxicologists and medical researchers are often quite concerned about the use of mercury. Lars Friberg, the lead toxicologist on the World Health Organization team looking at inorganic mercury and health effects recently stated that he believes that mercury is unsuitable for dental materials because of safety concerns.

Canadian Class Action LawsuitCanadians are in the process of beginning a major class action lawsuit based on the fact that the government knew of but did not warn the public about mercury dangers from amalgam fillings. Legal actions related to mercury exposure from mercury amalgam fillings and vaccines are beginning in the United States. For more information and a directory of Mercury-free dentists, please see the TalkInternation.com web site.

Obviously, not everyone experiences acute toxicity effects from the mercury in amalgam fillings. However, virtually everyone does have mercury build up in their bodies from implantation of such fillings. The large increase in mercury exposure from the newer non-gamma-2 mercury fillings means that only time will tell how much damage has been caused by daily exposure to mercury to such fillings.I do not recommend that people assume automatically that they will be healed by the removal of amalgam fillings.

Many people are helped tremendously and some are healed. The 80% figure for people showing improvement within a year likely refers to people who had good reason to suspect that they were being significantly effected by the fillings. The percentage of people in the general population who might experience health improvement within one year after removal is probably much lower than 80%.

I recommend going into the mercury amalgam removal procedure knowing that, at the very least, you will have removed yourself from a regular exposure to an extremely toxic material such that it will not build up in your organs and possibly cause significant health problems at a later date.Mercury amalgam fillings should be removed only by dentists with experience using the IOAMT mercury amalgam removal protocol (presented with the permission of the excellent Preventive Dental Association web page).

Such dentists are often experienced with proper evaluation and placement of composite fillings, both of which can be crucial for the success of the treatment. Biocompatability tests are often important in determining which composite materials can be safely used. I believe that composite (plastic) fillings are a better replacement than metal (e.g., gold) fillings even in chemically-sensitive individuals.

They are, however, not without safety questions, but are still likely to be much less toxic than mercury amalgam fillings. Proper placement of composites should be left to experienced amalgam removal dentists as the average well-meaning dentist may not be aware of the newer placement techniques.

Further scientific information can be found at Mercury Adverse Effects Web Page, 150 Year's of Russian Roulette Web Page, Alt Corp's Amalgam Page, and Bo Walhjalt's Mercury Articles Web Page. More information about removal, detoxification, and placement of composite fillings can be found at Bioprobe, Inc. and at the Preventive Dental Association. Information about finding a dentist practicing non-toxic dentistry can be found on the Resources For Related to Non-Toxic Dentistry web page.

Also, the AMALGAM mailing list can be a good source of accurate, up-to-date information.

Important Links

• Alt Corp Amalgam Web Page (Scientific links on left of page)


• Adverse Reaction Samples From the Internet - Updated 7/01/96


• Amalgam-Free Dentists (T.E.S.T.)


• Amalgam-Free Dentists (Talk International)


• Bikerchick Amalgam Poisoning web page


• Bio-Probe, Inc. -- Scientific/General/Detox Book & Product Catalog


• Blazing Tattles 3-Part Series on Cleaning Up Dental Work


• Canadians For Mercury Relief (CFMR)


• Chronic Illness and Chronic Mercury Exposure -- Dr. Edelson's Page


• Clifford Consulting & Research (Dental Materials Compatibility Testing)


• Consumers for Dental Choice


• Dental amalgam - 150 years of Russian Roulette (Dagfinn Reiers¿l)


• Hal A. Huggins, DDS, MS - Research In Toxicity


• Mercury/Amalgam Fillings-Related Illness FAQ


• Vimy Dental Group Web page


• Preventive Dental Health Association

AMALGAM REMOVAL - Correct & Incorrect Protocols

International Academy of Oral Medicine and ToxicologyProtocol for Mercury/Silver Filling Removal[1]

International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology

Protocol for Mercury/Silver Filling Removal[1]

Patient protection:

First in every concerned doctor's mind is the protection of the patient from additional exposure to mercury. This is especially true ofthe mercury-toxic patient. The mercury-toxic patient may have been exposed to varying amounts of mercury from diet, environment, employment or from mercury/silver dental fillings.

All forms are cumulative and can contribute to the body burden. The goal of this preferred procedure is to minimize any additional exposure of the patient, ourselves, or staff to mercury.

During chewing the patient is exposed to intraoral levels which areseveral times the EPA allowable air concentration.[2] During the removal or placement of amalgam the patient can be exposed to amounts which are a thousand times greater than the EPA allowable concentration.[3] Once the drill touches the filling, temperature increases, immediately vaporizing the mercury component of the alloy. There are 8 steps to greatly reducing everyone's exposure.

Step one Keep the fillings cool

1) All removal must be done under cold water spray with copious amounts of water. Once the removal has begun, the mercury vapour will be continuously released from the tooth.

2) Therefore, A high volume evacuator tip should be kept near the tooth (1/2 inch) at all times to evacuate this vapour from the area of the patient. Polishing amalgam can create very dangerous levels of mercury and should be avoided especially for the mercury toxic patient.

3) All patients having amalgam removed or placed should be provided with an alternative air source and instructed to not breathe through their mouth during treatment. A nasal hood such as is used with the nitrous oxide analgesia equipment is excellent.

Air is best and oxygen is acceptable although not required. If just air is used it should be clean and free of mercury vapour preferably from outside the dental office.

4) Particles of mercury alloy should be washed and vacuumed away as soon as they are generated. The filling should be sectioned and removed in large pieces to reduce exposure. At present the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) has approved removal both with and without the use of a rubber dam.

Some evidence exists to support both views since high levels of mercury and amalgam particles can be found under the dam. All members are agreed that whether or not a rubber dam is used, the patient should be instructed to not breathe through their mouth or swallow the particles.

Some experts feel that it is better to remove the amalgam first and then apply the dam, if needed, for restorative procedures.

5) After the fillings have been removed, take off the rubber dam if one was used and lavage the patients mouth for at least 30 seconds with cold water and vacuum. Remove your gloves and replace them with a new pair. If a restorative procedure is next then reapply a new dam and proceed.

6) Immediately change patients protective wear and clean their face.

7) Consider appropriate nutritional support before, during and after removal.

8) Install room air purifiers or ionizers and fans for everyone's well being.

Staff protection OSHA [4,5] requires that employees be given written informed consent before the use of any toxic chemicals, of which mercury is one. Elemental mercury vapor is one of the most toxic forms of mercury and should not breathed. Women of child bearing age should be exposed to no more than 10% of the OSHA MAC [6]. Women who are pregnant should be exposed to no mercury.[7] If you use mercury or remove mercury in any form, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended that your employees be medically monitored annually.

9) Any mercury exposure requires that the employee wear an approved mercury filter mask. An approved mask is appropriate for wearing during all dental procedures which will expose you or your staff to mercury.[8]

The manner in which dentists operate their equipment dramaticallyaffects the amount of mercury released. Never drill on mercury high dry.

It is hazardous to you, your staff, and your patient. Levels as high as4000 mg/M3 have been measured 18" from the drill when using high dry. Levels over 1000 mg/M3 are measurable upon opening an amalgam mixing capsule.

One out of 7 Californian dental offices tested over the OSHA TWA safety limit of 50 mg/M3. 100% of the vacuum cleaner exhaust tested over 100 mg/M3. Any office where mercury is used should be tested regularly and staff should be monitored for exposure. Testing services are available and a mercury sensor badge is available for personnel monitoring. They should test inside storage areas and along baseboards, where mercury might have dropped. Office spills can go undetected for years and are extremely hazardous.

REFERENCES[1] IAOMT Standards of Care Preferred Procedure Approved 9/27/92[2] EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency Office of Health and Environment Assessment Mercury health effects update Final Report EPA-600/8-84-019F 1971 EPA[3] Cooley RL, Barkmeier WW: Mercury vapour emitted during ultraspeed cutting of amalgam. J Indiana Dent Assoc 57:28-31, 1978[4] OSHA Job Health Series: Mercury.(2234)8/1975[5] Hazard Communication Program Federal Register/ Vol. 52. No. 163 / Monday, August 24, 1987[6] OSHA MAC is Threshold Limit Value of 100 micrograms/ cubic meter or 100 PPM This is a never to be exceeded standard.[7] Koos BJ and Lango LD , Mercury Toxicity in the pregnant woman, foetus, and newborn infant. A review Am J Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 126(3):390-409, 1976[8] Mine Safety Association high levels and 3M mercury dust mask lower levelsa) Patient Preparation for Amalgam Removal

AMALGAM REMOVAL PREPARATION WARNING: When the body is exposed to amalgam mercury it has an on-going need for detoxification and healing processes. If you have a medical condition, then hormones and enzymes the body needs to heal have likely been depleted by this on-going detoxification and healing process.

So before your amalgam restorations are removed, blood testing should be performed to determine what hormones and enzymes are deficient. Based on the blood test results a medical doctor can evaluate what nutritional and hormonal supplements are needed to prepare the body. After amalgams are removed, the healing usually accelerates, so there will be an even greater demand for the hormones and enzymes that were depleted. So a patient with a medical condition should take nutritional and hormonal supplements before, during and after amalgam removal.

b) Dental Procedures for Patient Protection During Amalgam Removal
IAOMT Standards of Care, Preferred Procedure, "Reducing Mercury Vapor Exposure for the Patient During Amalgam Removal." (September 1992)
The IAOMT has currently established the following amalgam removal protocols. If these protocols are followed, the amount of mercury released into the body during amalgam removal is reduced.

Place a rubber dam around the tooth to isolate it from the body.
Provide an alternative source of air to the patient.
Place a saliva ejector under the dam to remove mercury vapour that penetrates the latex.
Use high volume evacuation with isolate attachment.
Section amalgams and remove in as large pieces as possible.
Remove and properly dispose of rubber dam and mercury after amalgam removal.
Other amalgam removal precautions in addition to the protocols listed above include:
Remove no more than two amalgams per appointment.
Time amalgam removal appointments at least one month apart.
Administer intravenous Vitamin C before removal (Hg has a greater affinity to Vitamin C that is present in the blood than it does for body tissue).
Do not remove amalgams from a pregnant woman.

Further information pertaining to proper amalgam removal can be found on the web page:

http://www.holisticmed.com/dental/amalgam/iaomt.txt

c) Amalgam Removal without Patient Protection

This study measures the mercury level when amalgams are removed not following the protocols presented above.
Molin, M., Bergman B., Marklund, S.L., Schutz, A., Skerfving, S., "Mercury, Selenium, and Glutathione Peroxidase Before and After Amalgam Removal in Man" Acta Odontal Scandinavia; 48:189-202. Oslo. ISSN 0001-6357 (1990).

ABSTRACT: In 10 healthy persons all amalgam fillings were replaced with gold inlays. Blood and urinary levels were measured on 10 occasions during a 4-month period before and a 12-month period after amalgam removal. These variables were also measured three times in 10 healthy controls. A strong statistically significant relation was found between plasma mercury values and both the total number of amalgam surfaces (r=0.71, p=0.0006) and the total surface area of the fillings (r=0.73, p=0.004). In the immediate post removal phase plasma mercury rose by three- to four-fold, whereas the urinary and erythrocyte mercury rose about 50%. These peak values declined to the pre-removal level at about 1 month after removal.

Twelve months after the removal plasma and urinary mercury levels were reduced to 50% and 25%, respectively, of the initial values for the experimental group. Apart from the significantly lower plasma selenium values 5 and 10 days after removal no significant differences were found with regard to plasma selenium or erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase either within or between the experimental and the control groups. A large number of supplementary biochemical analyses did not show any influence on organ functions or any differences between the groups before or after the amalgam removal. Amalgam fillings considerably contributed to the plasma and urinary mercury levels.

d) Amalgam Removal with Patient Protection
This study measures the mercury level when amalgams are removed when not following the IAOMT protocols presented above.
Molin, M., Berglund, J.R., Mackert, J.R., "Kinetics of Mercury in Blood and Urine after Amalgam Removal." J. Dental Research, 74:420,IADR abstract 159, (1995).

ABSTRACT: Even through a number of studies have not been able to reveal any correlation between subjective symptoms and amalgam load, there are still speculations as to whether patients with subjective symptoms related by the patients themselves to their amalgam fillings could have a changed pattern of elimination of mercury. The aim of the present investigation was to study the elimination half-time of mercury in plasma, erythrocytes and urine over an extended period of time after amalgam removal in a group of 10 patients with subjective symptoms by the patients themselves referred to their amalgam fillings and a group of 8 healthy subjects. The average number of occlusal and total amalgam surfaces in the patient group were 13.0 (range 4-20) and 44.4 (range 24-68), respectively. Corresponding figures in the control group were 12.9 (range 10-16) and 40.9 (range 24-63).

The amalgam removal using rubber dam, water spray cutting and high volume vacuum evacuator, was carried out at one and the same time. Blood and urine samples were collected at two occasions before the amalgam removal, then blood was collected at thirty two occasions and urine at forty three occasions during the following year. The mercury content was analyzed by CVAAS technique.
The measured P-, Ery- and U-Hg concentrations before amalgam removal were slightly higher in the control group (6.43.3 nmol/L, 19.46.6 nmol/L, and 2.71.3 nmol/nmol) creatinine respectively than in the symptom group (5.61.8 nmol/L, 14.88.8 nmol/L, and 1.60.9 nmol/nmol) creatinine respectively.

The Hg-concentrations did not significantly increase in the two groups after amalgam removal. Six days after the removal the plasma mean concentration was significantly decreased at P level and ten days after the decrease was at a permanent P level. The mean Ery-Hg level was significantly decreased after eleven days (p), a level that remained stable for the rest of the year. The mean U-Hg level was significantly decreased to one month after the removal and after six months the mean level was reduced with 80 % compared to the initial level in both groups.

The conclusion to be drawn for the present study is that the symptom group did not have a changed pattern of elimination of mercury compared to the healthy group.
Begerow, J., Zander, D., Freier, I., Dunemann, L. "Long-Term Mercury Excretion in Urine After Removal of Amalgam Fillings" International Arch. Occupation Environmental Health 66:209-212 (1994).

ABSTRACT: The long-term urinary mercury excretion was determined in seventeen 28- to 55-year old persons before and at varying times (up to 14 months) after removal of all (4-24) dental amalgam fillings. Before removal the urinary mercury excretion correlated with the number of amalgam fillings. In the immediate post-removal phase (up to 6 days after removal) a mean increase of 30 percent was observed. Within 12 months the geometric mean of the mercury excretion was reduced by a factor of five from 1.44ug/g (range: 0.57 to 4.38ug/g) to 0.35 ug/g (range: 0.13 to 0.88 ug/g).

The exposure from amalgam fillings thus exceeds the exposure from food, air and beverages. Within 12 months after removal of all amalgam fillings the participants showed substantially lower urinary mercury levels which were comparable to those found in subjects who have never had dental amalgam fillings. A relationship between the urinary mercury excretion and adverse effects was not found. Differences in the frequency of effects between the pre- and post-removal phase were not observed.

DISCUSSION: The initial urinary mercury concentrations (before amalgam removal) were similar to those found in previous studies in people with amalgam fillings while the final values (12 months after amalgam removal) were comparable to those for people who have never had amalgam fillings.Our results are in excellent agreement with those of Molin et. al., who found a 75 percent reduction in urinary mercury levels within 12 months after amalgam removal. In accordance with the findings in this study, Molin also found a 50 percent increase in the urinary mercury excretion in the immediate post-removal phase.

Elligsen et. al. and Roels et. al. monitored the urinary mercury excretion after cessation of occupational exposure in a chloralkali plant. The biological half-life was calculated to be 91 days and 90 days, respectively. Both groups of authors concluded that the elimination rate after cessation of mercury exposure seems to be monophasic. This is in agreement with the results of this study based on dental exposure levels.The present study indicates that in persons with amalgam fillings on an average about 80 percent of the urinary mercury excretion is caused by the release from dental amalgam. Thus the inorganic mercury exposure form this source far exceeds the exposure from all other enviornmental sources (food, water, beverages, air).

e) Pregnancy Precaution

The formation of a foetus is very much at risk to mercury in its mother's blood, so the continuous release of mercury from amalgam restorations may be responsible for a portion of the birth defects seen in our society today. When an amalgam filling is removed or an amalgam-filled tooth is extracted, a surge of mercury may be released into the bloodstream. Women should have their amalgam fillings removed at least one year in advance of when they intend to become pregnant and discuss the risk with an informed medical doctor or dentist. Women should never have amalgam fillings removed during a pregnancy.

f) Patient Reports

Siblerud, R.L. "Health Effects After Dental Amalgam Removal" Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. Vol. 5, No. 2, (1990).

SUMMARY: A Utah dentist provided the names and addresses of approximately 300 people who had their amalgams removed. A health questionnaire was sent to these people; 86 subjects responded. Eighty (80) % of the subjects reported that they felt better following amalgam removal. Nearly all of the subjects (91%) said they were glad their amalgams had been removed and 88% said they would do it again. An increase in happiness and peace of mind was experienced by 58% of the subjects. This evidence suggests that the well being of these subjects improved immensely after amalgam removal.

Mary Davis editor "Solving the Puzzle of Mystery Syndromes" Hot Off the Press Printing Co. 2000

SUMMARY: This book presents patient-reported case histories, where they associate their health problems with dental amalgam mercury. Case histories include: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Seizures, Memory Loss, Migraines, Multiple Allergies, Multiple sclerosis, Depression, Lupus, Maldigestion, Chemical Sensitivities, Insomnia, Miscarriages, Paralysis, Sinus Problems, Emotional & Mental Disorders, Infertility, Endometriosis, Crohn's Disease, Rashes, Anxiety, Tremors & Spasms, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Universal Reactor and many others.......

MERCURY IS A DEADLY POISON!

It is surprising how the controversy regarding mercury still continues even though the research indicating that it is a lethal poison is accumulating rapidly.

This research has shown how detrimental mercury can be to the developing foetus, the newborn, the developing child and the adult.

My intention here is to present a few research studies that will show the various detrimental effects of mercury at all stages of life.


Is there a correlation between the number of amalgams and the amount of mercury excreted in the urine after provocation?

ABSTRACT:

There is a considerable controversy as to whether dental amalgams may cause systemic health effects in humans because they liberate elemental mercury. Most such amalgams contain as much as 50% metallic mercury.

To determine the influence of dental amalgams on the mercury body burden of humans, we have given volunteers, with and without amalgams in their mouth, the sodium salt of 2, 3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonic acid (DMPS), a chelating agent safely used in the Soviet Union and West Germany for a number of years. The diameters of dental amalgams of the subjects were determined to obtain the amalgam score.

Administration of 300 mg DMPS by mouth increased the mean urinary mercury excretion of the amalgam group from 0.70 to 17.2 ug and that of the non amalgam group from 0.27 to 5.1 ug over a 9 hour period.

Two-thirds of the mercury excreted in the urine of those with dental amalgams appears to be derived originally from the mercury vapor released from their amalgams.

Linear regression analysis indicated a highly significant positive correlation between the mercury excreted in the urine 2 hours after DMPS administration and the dental amalgam scores. DMPS can be used to increase the urinary excretion of mercury and thus increase the significance and reliability of this measure of mercury exposure or burden, especially in cases of micromercurialism.

Aposhian, H.V., D.C. Bruce, W. Alter, R.C. Dart, K.M. Hurlbut, M.M. Aposhian, "Urinary Mercury after Administration of 2, 3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonic acid: Correlation with Dental Amalgam Score" FASEB J. 6: 2472-2476; (1992).

Can dental mercury release from the mother be detected in the foetus?

ABSTRACT:
In humans, the continuous release of Hg vapour from dental amalgam tooth restorations is markedly increased for prolonged periods after chewing. The present study establishes a time-course distribution for amalgam, Hg in body tissues of adult and foetal sheep. Under general anaesthesia, five pregnant ewes had twelve occlusal amalgam fillings containing radioactive 203Hg placed in teeth at 112 days gestation.

Blood, amniotic fluid, faeces, and urine specimens were collected at 1- to 3-day intervals for 16 days. From days 16-140 after amalgam placement (16-41 days for foetal lambs), tissue specimens were analyzed for radioactivity, and total Hg concentrations were calculated. Results demonstrate that Hg from dental amalgam will appear in maternal and foetal blood and amniotic fluid within 2 days after placement of amalgam tooth restorations.

Excretion of some of this Hg will also commence within 2 days. All tissues examined displayed Hg accumulation. Highest concentrations of Hg from amalgam in the adult occurred in kidney and liver, whereas in the foetus the highest amalgam Hg concentrations appeared in the liver and pituitary glands. The placenta progressively concentrated Hg as gestation advanced to term, and milk concentration of amalgam Hg postpartum provides a potential source of Hg exposure to the newborn. It is concluded that accumulation of amalgam Hg progresses in maternal and foetal tissues to a steady state with advancing gestation and is maintained.Vimy, M.J., Y. Takahashi, and F.L. Lorscheider "Maternal-foetal distribution of mercury (203Hg) released from dental amalgam fillings." Am. J. Physiol. 258 (Regulatory Integrative Comp. Physiol. 27): R939-R945 (1990).

Can in utero exposure to mercury cause behavioural disturbances?

ABSTRACT:

Pregnant rats were either 1) administered methyl mercury (MeHg) by gavage, 2 mg/kg/day during days 6-9 of gestation, 2) exposed by inhalation to metallic mercury (Hg) vapour (1.8 mg/m3 air for 1.5 hours per day) during gestation days 14-19, 3) exposed to both MeHg by gavage and Hg vapour by inhalation (MeHg + Hg), or 4) were given combined vehicle administration for each of the two treatments (control).

The inhalation regimen corresponded to an approximate dose of 0.1 mg Hg/kg/day.Clinical observations and developmental markers up to weaning showed no differences between any of the groups. Testing of behavioural functions was performed between 4 and 5 months of age and included spontaneous motor activity, spatial learning in a circular path, and instrumental maze learning for food reward.

Offspring of dams exposed to Hg vapour showed hyperactivity in the motor activity test chambers over all three parameters: locomotion, rearing and total activity; this effect was potentiated in the animals of the MeHg + Hg group. In the swim maze test, the MeHg + Hg and Hg groups evidenced longer latencies to reach a submerged platform, which they had learned to mount the day before, compared to either the control or MeHg group.

In the modified, enclosed radial arm maze, both the MeHg + Hg and Hg groups showed more ambulations and rearings in the activity test prior to the learning test. During the learning trial, the same groups (i.e., MeHg + Hg and Hg) showed longer latencies and made more errors in acquiring all eight pellets.Fredriksson, A., Dencker, L., Archer, T., Danielsson, B.R. "Prenatal Coexposure to Metallic Mercury Vapor and Methyl Mercury Produce Interactive Behavioral Changes in Adult Rats." Neurotoxicol Teratol., 18(2): 129-34, (1996).

ABSTRACT: The total mercury concentrations in the liver (Hg-L), the kidney cortex (Hg-K) and the cerebral cortex (Hg-C) of 108 children aged 1 day- 5 years, and the Hg-K and Hg-L of 46 foetuses were determined. As far as possible, the mothers were interviewed and their dental status was recorded.

The results were compared to mercury concentrations in the tissues of adults for the same geographical area. The Hg-K (n=38) and Hg-L (n=40) of foetuses and Hg-K (n=35) and Hg-C (n=35) of older infants (11-50 weeks of life) correlated significantly with the number of dental amalgam fillings of the mother. The toxicological relevance of the unexpected high Hg-K of older infants from mother with higher numbers of dental amalgam fillings is discussed. Conclusion: Future discussion on the pros and cons of dental amalgam should not be limited to adults or children with their own amalgam fillings, but also include foetal exposure.

The unrestricted application of amalgam for dental restorations in women before and during the child-bearing age should be reconsidered. Abbreviations: Hg-C total mercury concentration in the cerebral cortex (ng/g wet weight). Hg-K total mercury concentration in the renal cortex (ng/g wet weight). Hg-L total mercury concentration in the liver (ng/g wet weight).Drasch et. al. "Mercury Burden of Human Fetal and Infant Tissues" European Journal of Pediatrics (August 1994).

Can mercury amalgam from lactating mothers affect the foetus in utero?

ABSTRACT: Neonatal uptake of Hg from milk was examined in a pregnant sheep model, where radioactive mercury (Hg203)/silver tooth fillings (amalgam) were newly placed. A crossover experimental design was used in which lactating ewes nursed foster lambs. In a parallel study, the relationship between dental history and breast milk concentration of Hg was also examined.Results from the animal studies showed that, during pregnancy, a primary fetal site of amalgam, Hg concentration is in the liver, and after delivery the neonatal lamb kidney receives additional amalgam Hg from mother's milk.

In lactating women with aged amalgam fillings, increased Hg excretion in breast milk and urine correlated with the number of fillings or Hg vapor concentration levels in mouth air.It was concluded that Hg originating from maternal amalgam tooth fillings transfers across the placenta to the fetus, across the mammary gland into milk ingested by the newborn and ultimately into neonatal body tissues.

Comparisons are made to the U.S. minimal risk level recently established for adult Hg exposure. These findings suggest the placement and removal of "silver" tooth filings in pregnant and lactating humans will subject the fetus and neonate to unnecessary risk of Hg exposure.Vimy, M.J., Hooper, D.E., King, W.W., Lorscheider, F.L., "Mercury from Maternal "Silver" Tooth Fillings in Sheep and Human Breast Milk: A Source of Neonatal Exposure" Biological Trace Element Research, 56:143-52, (1997).

Can heavy metals affect human fertility?

ABSTRACT: Heavy metals have been identified as factors affecting human fertility. This study was designed to investigate whether the urinary heavy metal excretion is associated with different factors of infertility.

The urinary heavy metal excretion was determined in 501 infertile women after oral administration of the chelating agent 2,3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonic acid (DMPS). Furthermore, the influence of trace element and vitamin administration on metal excretion was investigated. Significant correlations were found between different heavy metals and clinical parameters (age, body mass index, nationality) as well as gynaecological conditions (uterine fibroids, miscarriages, hormonal disorders).

Diagnosis and reduction of an increased heavy metal body load improved the spontaneous conception chances of infertile women. The DMPS test was a useful and complementary diagnostic method. Adequate treatment provides successful alternatives to conventional hormonal therapy.Gerhard, I., Monga, B., Waldbrenner, A., Runnebaum, B., "Heavy Metals and Fertility" Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part, A, 54:593-611, (1998).

Is mercury associated with cardiac dysfunction?

OBJECTIVES: We sought to investigate the possible pathogenetic role of myocardial trace elements (TE) in patients with various forms of cardiac failure.BACKGROUND: Both myocardial TE accumulation and deficiency have been associated with the development of heart failure indistinguishable from an idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.

METHODS: Myocardial and muscular content of 32 TE has been assessed in biopsy samples of 13 patients (pts) with clinical, hemodynamic and histologic diagnosis of idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM), all without past or current exposure to TE.

One muscular and one left ventricular (LV) endomyocardial specimen from each patient, drawn with metal contamination-free technique, were analyzed by neutron activation analysis and compared with

1) similar surgical samples from patients with valvular (12 pts)and ischemic (13 pts) heart disease comparable for age and degree of LV dysfunction;

2) papillary and skeletal muscle surgical biopsies from 10 pts with mitral stenosis and normal LV function, and

3) LV endomyocardial biopsies from four normal subjects.

RESULTS: A large increase (>10,000 times for mercury and antimony) of TE concentration has been observed in myocardial but not in muscular samples in all pts with IDCM.

Patients with secondary cardiac dysfunction had mild increase (< or = 5 times) of myocardial TE and normal muscular TE. In particular, in pts with IDCM mean mercury concentration was 22,000 times (178,400 ng/g vs. 8 ng/g), antimony 12,000 times (19,260 ng/g vs. 1.5 ng/g), gold 11 times (26 ng/g vs. 2.3 ng/g), chromium 13 times (2,300 ng/g vs. 177 ng/g) and cobalt 4 times (86,5 ng/g vs. 20 ng/g) higher than in control subjects.

CONCLUSIONS: A large, significant increase of myocardial TE is present in IDCM but not in secondary cardiac dysfunction. The increased concentration of TE in pts with IDCM may adversely affect mitochondrial activity and myocardial metabolism and worsen cellular function.Frustaci A, Magnavita N, Chimenti C, Caldarulo M, Sabbioni E, Pietra R, Cellini C, Possati GF, Maseri A. Department of Cardiology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy. "Marked elevation of myocardial trace elements in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy compared with secondary cardiac dysfunction." From: J Am Coll Cardiol 1999 May;33(6):1578-83

Can dental mercury provoke an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria in oral and intestinal flora?

ABSTRACT: In a survey of 640 human subjects, a subgroup of 356 persons without recent exposure to antibiotics demonstrated that those with a high prevalence of Hg resistance in their intestinal floras were significantly more likely to also have resistance to two or more antibiotics. This observation led us to consider the possibility that mercury released from amalgam ("silver") dental restorations might be a selective agent for both mercury- and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the oral and intestinal floras of primates.

Resistances to mercury and the several antibiotics were examined in the oral and intestinal floras of six adult monkeys prior the installation of amalgam fillings, during the time they were in place, and after replacement of the amalgam fillings with glass ionomer fillings (in four of the monkeys). The monkeys were fed an antibiotic-free diet, and fecal mercury concentrations were monitored.

There was a statistically significant increase in the incidence of mercury-resistant bacteria during the 5 weeks following installation of the amalgam fillings and during the 5 weeks immediately following their replacement with glass ionomer fillings. These peaks in incidence of mercury-resistant bacteria correlated with peaks of Hg elimination (as high as 1mM in the faeces) immediately following amalgam placement and immediately after replacement of the amalgam fillings.

Representative mercury-resistant isolates of three selected bacterial families (oral streptococci, members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, and enterocaocci) were also resistant to one or more antibiotics, including ampicillin, tetracycline, streptomycin, kanamycin, and chloramphenicol. While such mercury- and antibiotic-resistant isolates among the staphylococci, the enterococci, and members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, have been described, this is the first report of mercury resistance in the oral streptococci.

Many of the enterobacterial strains were able to transfer mercury and antibiotic resistances together to laboratory bacterial recipients, suggesting that the loci for these resistances are genetically linked.

Our findings indicate that mercury released from amalgam fillings can cause an enrichment of mercury resistance plasmids in the normal bacterial floras of primates. Many of these plasmids also carry antibiotic resistance, implicating the exposure to mercury from dental amalgams in an increased incidence of multiple antibiotic resistance plasmids in the normal floras of nonmedicated subjects.

Summers, A.O., J.Wireman, M.J. Vimy, F.L. Lorscheider, B. Marshall, S.B. Levy, S. Bennett, and L. Billard, "Mercury Released form Dental "Silver" Fillings Provokes an Increase in Mercury- and Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Oral and Intestinal Floras of Primates", Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, (April 1993), pages 825 - 834.

Are there increased blood mercury levels in patients with Alzheimer's Disease?

SUMMARY: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder that leads to dementia and death. In addition to several genetic parameters, various environmental factors may influence the risk of getting AD.

In order to test whether blood levels of the heavy metal mercury are increased in AD, we measured blood mercury concentrations in AD patients (n=33), and compared them to age-matched control patients with major depression (MD) (n=45), as well as to an additional control group of patients with various non psychiatric disorders (n=65). Blood mercury levels were more than two fold higher in AD patients as compared to both control groups (p=0.0005, and p=0.0000, respectively). In early onset AD patients (n=13), blood mercury levels were almost three fold higher as compared to controls (p=0.0002, and p=0.0000, respectively).

These increases were unrelated to the patients' dental status. Linear regression analysis of blood mercury concentrations and CSF levels of amyloid B-peptide (AB) revealed a significant correlation of these measures in AD patients (n=15, r=0.7440, p=0.0015, Pearson type of correlation).

These results demonstrate elevated blood levels of mercury in AD, and they suggest that this increase of mercury levels is associated with high CSF levels of AB, whereas tau levels were unrelated. Possible explanations of increased blood mercury levels in AD include yet unidentified environmental sources or release from brain tissue with the advance in neuronal death.C. Hock, G. Drasch, S. Golombowski, F. Muller-Spahn, B. Willershausen-Zonnchen, P. Schwarz, U. Hock, J.H. Growdon, R.M. Nitsch "Increased Blood Mercury Levels in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease" Journal of Neural Transmission, 105: (1998).

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