Looking for a safe way to remove silver dental fillings in Dallas, TX? At Lynn Dental Care, Dr. Brock Lynn remains current on the latest dental field developments. Implementing a holistic approach to dentistry, our team is concerned with employing methods that enable us to treat not only our patients’ oral health but also their physical health as well. That is why we use the SMART Technique at our dental practice in Dallas, TX, as it allows us to consider all aspects of our patients’ well-being.
Why Remove Silver Fillings?
The mercury contained in silver fillings, also referred to as dental amalgams, is constantly released into the body as an invisible vapor. The substance can be retained in the brain, kidneys, lungs, liver, and gastrointestinal tract, which could cause health issues. Additionally, when silver fillings are removed, mercury particulates may be released, which could harm patients, dentists, and dental office personnel. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) has developed the SMART Technique as a safe way to remove dental amalgams. The method involves various steps and measures designed to protect patients, dentists, and dental staff.
What Is the SMART Technique?
SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal. The technique requires dentists to use various safety measures when removing patients’ dental amalgams. Different standards have been developed to protect patients and dentists.
Concerning the safety of patients, the SMART Technique includes the following:
- Using substances such as charcoal or chlorella as an absorbent
- Covering the patient with an impermeable full-body barrier
- Placing a head/face/neck barrier on the patient
- Delivering air or oxygen through a nasal mask
- Using a non-latex, nitrile dental dam
- Activating a saliva ejector
- Using an at-source oral aerosol vacuum
- Spraying abundant amounts of water
- Using a high-speed evacuation device and
- Removing large chunks of the dental amalgam
The safety measures used to protect dentists and dental staff include wearing protective gowns and covers, non-latex nitrile gloves, and face shields/head coverings. Additionally, staff must use a properly sealed mask and appropriate personal protection equipment.
How Does a Dentist Receive a SMART Certification?
To be SMART certified, a dentist must complete an IAOMT course covering dental amalgam removal and the measures required to protect against mercury exposure. The dentist must complete the program annually to stay current on the technique. Additionally, the dentist must be a member of the IAOMT.
Experience the SMART Technique in Dallas
If you’re looking for a safe way to have silver fillings removed, schedule an appointment with Lynn Dental Care. We use the IAOMT SMART Technique in Dallas to protect the health and safety of our patients and staff!
Silver Filling Removal FAQs
What is silver filling removal?
Silver filling removal is the process of safely removing dental amalgam, also known as a silver or metal filling, and replacing it with a suitable alternative.
How are silver fillings removed?
Dentists can use the SMART Technique, which includes protective barriers, supplemental oxygen, dental dams, high-volume evacuation, and other measures designed to minimize mercury vapor exposure during amalgam removal.
Should old silver fillings be removed?
Whether an old silver filling should be removed depends on its condition and your individual dental needs, so your dentist should evaluate the filling before recommending removal.
How much does silver filling removal cost?
The cost of silver filling removal varies depending on the number and condition of the fillings and the treatment needed afterward.
How long does silver filling removal take?
The time required to remove a silver filling depends on the filling’s size, location, and condition.
