Safe Mercury Removal: A Health-Conscious Approach at Elevate Dental Wellness
Did you know that traditional silver fillings contain more than 50 percent mercury? Once placed, these fillings continuously release elemental mercury vapor, the most toxic form of mercury. Dentists have used silver amalgam to fill cavities since the early days of dentistry, so why are we rethinking this now? Although mercury fillings have historically been used to prevent further decay, recent research has shown them to be highly toxic.
The mercury toxins can seriously threaten your overall health, especially as they remain in your body. Mercury exposure can increase your risk for various health issues, including allergies, autoimmune disorders, heart problems, depression, and even mercury poisoning.
Removing old fillings can minimize exposure and potential complications down the road. Replacing mercury amalgam fillings with biocompatible materials can improve your teeth’ aesthetics and functionality. At Elevate Dental Wellness, we use Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal (SMART) to protect our patients and staff from mercury exposure.
What is the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal (SMART) Protocol?
The SMART protocol, developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), is a comprehensive set of guidelines designed to minimize mercury exposure during amalgam removal.
- Isolation of the Treatment Area: We isolate the tooth to prevent mercury particles from spreading in the mouth.
- Air Filtration Systems: Our office has high-efficiency air filtration systems to capture mercury vapor and particles released during removal.
- High-Volume Suction: We utilize high-volume suction devices to remove mercury vapor and particles from the treatment area continuously.
- Protective Gear: Both patients and staff wear protective gear, including masks and gowns, to reduce the risk of mercury exposure.
- Safe Disposal: Mercury amalgam waste is carefully collected and disposed of according to environmental safety guidelines.
Safe Mercury Removal: What to Expect
The removal process is typically no more uncomfortable than placing a regular dental filling. We use local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Removing and replacing each filling typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. We use biocompatible materials, such as composite resins or porcelain, to replace the Mercury fillings. They are safe, durable, and match the natural color of your teeth.
At Elevate Dental Wellness, we are dedicated to providing the safest and most effective dental care possible. If you are considering safe mercury removal, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our SMART-certified techniques.
