Exceptional Dental Care in Smyrna
Protecting Your Health: Safe Removal of Mercury Fillings
For decades, amalgam fillings (often called "silver fillings") were the standard for treating cavities. While durable, these fillings contain approximately 50% mercury, a heavy metal known to be toxic. Many health-conscious individuals are now seeking the safe removal of their old amalgam fillings due to concerns about potential mercury vapor release and a desire for more biocompatible materials. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we understand these concerns. We are specially trained and equipped to perform Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) protocols, ensuring the process is handled with the utmost care for your health and the environment.
Understanding Amalgam Fillings and Mercury Concerns
Amalgam fillings are a mixture of metals, including silver, tin, copper, and a significant amount of elemental mercury. While regulatory bodies have varying stances on the risks, ongoing research and patient concerns highlight potential issues:
Mercury Vapor Release: Small amounts of mercury vapor can be released from amalgam fillings during chewing, brushing, or exposure to hot liquids. The long-term effects of this chronic, low-level exposure are a subject of debate and concern for many.
Biocompatibility: Some individuals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to the metals in amalgam.
Environmental Impact: Mercury is a known environmental toxin.
Aesthetics: Many people simply prefer the natural look of tooth-colored restorations.
For these reasons, many patients choose to replace their amalgam fillings with modern, biocompatible alternatives proactively.
Our Commitment to Safety: The SMART Protocol
Removing amalgam fillings without proper precautions can expose both the patient and the dental team to significantly higher levels of mercury vapor than leaving them in place. That's why we adhere to the strict SMART protocols established by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This ensures the removal process is done as safely as possible.
Our SMART protocol includes:
Effective Isolation: Using a non-latex rubber dam to isolate the tooth and prevent particles from being swallowed or inhaled.
High-Volume Suction: Utilizing a special suction device placed close to the tooth to capture mercury vapor and particles immediately.
Copious Water Spray: Keeping the filling cool during removal minimizes the release of vapor.
Specialized Air Filtration: Employing an advanced air filtration system in the treatment room to capture ambient mercury vapor.
Protective Gear: Providing protective gowns and face shields for the patient and dental team.
Oxygen Source: Offering the patient an external source of clean air to breathe during the procedure.
Replacing Amalgam with Biocompatible Alternatives
Once the amalgam filling is safely removed, we restore your tooth using high-quality, non-toxic, and aesthetically pleasing materials that work in harmony with your body.
Your Modern Restoration Options
Composite Resin Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings bond directly to your tooth structure, providing a strong, durable, and natural-looking restoration. They are completely mercury-free and BPA-free.
Porcelain Inlays/Onlays or Crowns: For larger restorations, custom-milled ceramic provides exceptional strength, longevity, and aesthetics, perfectly mimicking natural tooth structure.
The Benefits of Safe Amalgam Removal
Peace of Mind: Eliminates the ongoing concern about potential mercury exposure from old fillings.
Improved Aesthetics: Replaces dark, metallic fillings with natural-looking, tooth-colored restorations.
Enhanced Biocompatibility: Uses materials designed to be safe and compatible with your body's tissues.
Protection for You and Our Team: Ensures the removal process minimizes mercury exposure for everyone involved.
Your Health is Our Priority
If you have old amalgam fillings and are considering their removal, it is crucial to choose a dentist who is trained and equipped to perform the procedure safely. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we are committed to providing biological dentistry that respects your health choices and prioritizes your safety above all else.
SMART Certified (or Trained): We follow strict safety protocols for mercury filling removal.
Experts in Biocompatible Dentistry: We use only safe, non-toxic restorative materials.
Advanced Air Filtration & Safety Measures: Our studio is equipped to protect you during the procedure.
A Holistic, Patient-Centered Approach: We listen to your concerns and support your health goals.
Ready to discuss replacing your old amalgam fillings safely?
Contact Smyrna Dental Studio today to schedule your consultation. We will assess your situation and explain the safe removal process in detail.