Mercury-Safe Dentistry

You might consider mercury-safe dentistry if you have a metal amalgam filling and you’re concerned about its possible health implications. At Plaza Dental Group in West Des Moines, Iowa, the dental providers use the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) to replace metal fillings with natural tooth-colored ones. Call the office to request a mercury-safe dentistry consultation or use the online booking feature today.

What is mercury-safe dentistry?

Mercury-safe dentistry is an oral health subspecialty that uses techniques developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) to remove and replace metal (amalgam) fillings.

Amalgam is a tough and durable substance made from different metals. Dentists have used it for decades to repair cavities and other types of enamel damage.

Though long-lasting, amalgam contains about 50% mercury. Over the years, amalgam fillings release small amounts of mercury vapors. Your body absorbs these vapors, increasing your risk of more serious health problems later on.

Mercury safe dentistry prevents mercury-related health problems by using the IAOMT’s approved removal technique. After your dentist replaces your amalgam filling with a tooth-colored one, it restores your biting and chewing abilities.

Can anyone perform mercury-safe dentistry?

To perform mercury-safe dentistry, a dentist must complete a series of special training courses at IAOMT.

At Plaza Dental Group, the team has an on-site, SMART-certified (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) dentist. The practice also ensures strict compliance with all SMART safety protocols and implements all of IAOMT’s recommended treatment guidelines.

What makes mercury-safe dentistry unique?

The team at Plaza Dental Group is aware of the potential for exposure to mercury fumes when removing amalgam fillings. Therefore, they apply a series of very specific protocols to reduce the amount of mercury vapor in the treatment room. These protocols include:

• Providing you with an alternate source of clean air
• Using a cold water spray to minimize the release of mercury vapors
• Putting a dental dam in your mouth so you don’t swallow any toxins
• Using a high-volume evacuator to suck up debris from your amalgam filling
• Washing your mouth out immediately after the filling is removed

After placing the new filling, your dentist removes the dental dam from your mouth and provides recovery instructions.

Who is a candidate for mercury-safe dentistry?

Anyone who has one or more metal amalgam fillings can benefit from mercury-safe dentistry. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure to let your Plaza Dental Group dentist know. 

Because mercury-safe dentistry involves the release of toxic fumes, it might be better to wait until after you give birth.

Call Plaza Dental Group to request a mercury-safe dentistry consultation, or use the online booking feature today.