Overview
Dentistry that treats your mouth as part of your body
Holistic (sometimes called biological) dentistry starts from a simple idea: what happens in your mouth affects the rest of you, and the materials we put in your teeth stay there for years. So we try to choose the least invasive treatment and the most biocompatible material that will do the job well.
In practice, that means we never place silver amalgam fillings, which are about 50% mercury. We restore teeth with tooth-colored composite and metal-free ceramics where they fit, keep as much natural tooth structure as possible, and take your health history — sensitivities, allergies, medical conditions — into account before recommending anything.
Holistic does not mean anti-science. Dr. Shanna Bernkrant uses modern diagnostics, digital X-rays and proven treatments. The difference is how much time we spend explaining your options, conventional and conservative, so you can choose with full information.
At a glance
- 100% mercury-free — no amalgam fillings placed
- Tooth-colored composite and metal-free ceramic options
- Minimally invasive: save natural tooth structure first
- Health history and material sensitivities reviewed
- Protective steps when removing old silver fillings
- Any PPO or Medicare dental plan accepted
Treatment by Dr. Shanna Bernkrant, DMD at our West Dixie Highway office.
Our principles
What makes our approach different
Mercury-free restorations
Composite resin bonds directly to the tooth, so the dentist removes less healthy enamel than an amalgam filling requires. It is also tooth-colored and contains no mercury.
Careful amalgam replacement
If an old silver filling is broken or decayed, we replace it using isolation, high-volume suction and other protective measures to limit exposure for you and our team.
Conservative first
We would rather watch a tiny spot, seal it, or place a small filling than jump to a crown. Bigger treatment is recommended only when the tooth truly needs it.
Gum health = body health
Research links gum disease to diabetes and heart disease. Treating gum inflammation is one of the most effective things we do for whole-body health.
Your questions, answered
Curious about a material, a procedure or an alternative? Ask. Dr. B will explain the reasoning and the trade-offs in plain language.
Amalgam replacement
Replacing old silver fillings, step by step
- EvaluationWe examine each filling and take X-rays to see which ones are failing. Not every silver filling needs to come out right away.
- A plan you approveDr. B prioritizes the teeth that need attention first and explains the options — composite, onlay or crown — for each one.
- Protected removalThe tooth is isolated, the filling is sectioned out with high-volume suction running, and the area is cleaned thoroughly.
- Tooth-colored restorationThe tooth is rebuilt with bonded composite or a ceramic restoration, matched to your natural shade.
Cost & coverage
Paying for mercury-free fillings in North Miami
We accept any PPO dental plan and any Medicare dental plan, and we file the claim for you. Coverage for mercury-free fillings depends on your plan, so we verify your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment starts — no surprise bills.
No insurance? Your consultation is free, and our in-office savings plan and payment options spread the cost into manageable pieces. We do not publish fixed prices online because the right treatment — and the cost — depends on what we find at your exam.
Most insurance plans cover tooth-colored fillings on front teeth and many now cover them on back teeth too. When a plan pays only the amalgam rate, we tell you the difference up front.
FAQ
Holistic Dentistry questions, answered
Is holistic dentistry the same as biological dentistry?
The terms overlap. Both describe dentistry that considers your overall health and favors biocompatible materials and minimally invasive treatment. We use proven, evidence-based techniques within that philosophy.
Should I have all my silver fillings removed?
Not necessarily. The U.S. FDA recommends that intact amalgam fillings not be removed without a reason, and suggests certain high-risk groups avoid new ones. We replace fillings that are cracked, leaking or decayed, and discuss elective replacement with you case by case.
Are tooth-colored fillings as strong as amalgam?
Modern composites are durable for most small and medium fillings. For large cavities or cracked teeth, a ceramic onlay or crown may last longer — we will tell you which fits your tooth.
Do you use fluoride?
Fluoride is effective at preventing cavities and we offer it, but it is always your choice. If you prefer fluoride-free care, let us know and we will build your plan around it.
Does insurance cover mercury-free fillings?
Usually, yes. We accept any PPO and any Medicare dental plan. Coverage depends on the specific treatment and your plan — we will verify it and tell you your share before we start.
Questions about your fillings? Bring them.
Book a consultation and Dr. B will review your X-rays and materials with you, tooth by tooth.
Keep exploring
Related care at our North Miami office
General & Family Dentistry
Exams, cleanings, X-rays and tooth-colored fillings for kids, parents and grandparents.
Crowns & Bridges
Rebuild cracked or worn teeth and close gaps with tooth-colored restorations.
Dental Implants
A permanent, natural-feeling way to replace one tooth, several, or a full arch.
Dentures & Partials
Comfortable full and partial dentures, relines and implant-supported options.