How we remove a “silver” filling matters:
FAQs about the safe way to handle mercury fillings
At Gateway Oral Health Center, it is not sufficient for our team in St. George, Utah, to refrain from placing silver-colored metal amalgam fillings that contain mercury. How we remove those fillings and replace them with healthy, beautiful ones matters. Therefore, we are proud to offer the SMART protocol.
What does SMART stand for?
SMART is an acronym for “Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique.” The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) has set forth guidelines and protocols for the safe removal of fillings made from an amalgam of metals, including mercury, a known toxin.
Why do these protocols need to be in place for filling removal?
It’s a great question! The mercury from the fillings does not merely seep chronically into tissues and organs. Mercury can also be released at exceptionally high levels while removing them. The mercury may enter the office environment as small particles or vapors. When this happens, it threatens the health of you, the patient, and anyone else in the area – dentists, staff, and visitors. Proper disposal of these materials is essential, as the waste generated during the process can contaminate waterways. So, they are a real community and environmental health threat when not removed, managed, and disposed of properly.
What steps have you taken to keep everyone safe?
There are numerous precautions in place. We have invested in protective garments and coverings to prevent the spread of the particles created as the filling is removed. Special equipment also plays a vital role in collecting mercy waste and filtrating the air – to remove vapor and particulate matter from the environment. To ensure no vapors or particles are inhaled or swallowed, we also deliver oxygen through a nasal mask and use a dental dam to seal the mouth as a protective barrier. An aerosol vacuum helps reduce mercury exposure, as does the introduction of water to reduce heat and remove the amalgam as small chunks rather than larger pieces. Afterward, the treatment site is thoroughly flushed, and any surfaces that may have come in contact with mercury are properly handled, cleaned, and disposed of as necessary.
Do all biological dentists follow SMART?
Each dental office operates differently. Some dentists may be “mercury-free.” They do not place fillings that contain mercury. Other dentists may be “mercury-free” and “mercury-safe,” the latter term referring to the steps outlined here to ensure these metal fillings are removed safely. We are proud to be both things at Gateway Oral Health Center. If you are worried about an old filling or are simply due for a checkup, give our team in St. George, UT, a call today at (435) 656-0255.
