Safe mercury silver filling removal, offered at Pasadena Dentist, ensures the safe and effective removal of mercury amalgam fillings using the SMART protocol. This advanced technique minimizes mercury exposure to patients while protecting overall health.

The risks posed by amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver fillings, contain approximately 50% mercury, a toxic substance linked to various health concerns. Over time, these fillings can release mercury vapor, which may be inhaled or absorbed by the body, potentially impacting the nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. For some individuals, mercury exposure can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and inflammation. Additionally, amalgam fillings may expand and contract with temperature changes, increasing the risk of tooth fractures. Safely removing amalgam fillings is essential to protect long-term health and overall well-being.

Reasons to consider safe mercury silver filling removal

Reducing exposure to toxic mercury vapor and particles
Preventing potential health risks linked to mercury toxicity
Replacing outdated fillings with safer, biocompatible materials
Addressing cracks or wear in existing amalgam fillings
Supporting overall health and reducing inflammation
Restoring the natural appearance of teeth with modern composite fillings
Enhancing tooth strength and structural integrity
Minimizing long-term risks of mercury accumulation in the body

What is the SMART protocol?

The Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) is a specialized protocol to safely remove mercury-containing silver fillings while minimizing exposure to toxic mercury vapors and particles. Developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), SMART uses advanced safety measures, including dental dams, high-volume suction, air filtration, and protective equipment for patients and dental staff. The protocol also incorporates biocompatible materials to restore teeth after removal.

Advantages of SMART

Reduced exposure to toxic mercury vapors and particles
Protects patients and dental staff during amalgam removal
Avoids harmful materials by using biocompatible replacements
Supports holistic dental care with a focus on overall health
Promotes better long-term oral and systemic health outcomes
Supports the body's healing mechanisms
Can help with increased energy, mental clarity, and reduced inflammation

Procedure for safe mercury silver filling removal

Consultation

During your initial visit, your dentist will examine your silver fillings to assess their condition and determine if removal is necessary. They will explain the procedure, discuss any risks or benefits, and address your concerns.

Pre-treatment

Before the procedure begins, you may be asked to rinse your mouth with activated charcoal or a similar substance. This helps bind any mercury particles, reducing the risk of absorption during the removal process.

Protective Measures

To keep you safe, your dentist will provide protective gear, such as a full-body drape and a nasal mask that supplies clean oxygen. These measures prevent exposure to mercury vapors. The dental team will also wear protective equipment.

Rubber Dam

A non-latex rubber dam or specialized suction cup will be placed around the tooth being treated. This isolates the tooth, ensuring that mercury particles and debris do not enter your mouth or throat during the procedure.

Suction

A high-volume suction system will be positioned near your mouth to capture mercury vapors and particles as they are released. This equipment significantly reduces the risk of inhalation or contamination during removal.

Removal

Your dentist will use precise tools, including a drill and water spray, to carefully break down and remove the mercury filling in chunks. This method minimizes mercury release, ensuring a safer procedure for you and the dental team.

Replacement

Once the filling is completely removed, your dentist will clean the tooth thoroughly and refill it using a safe, biocompatible material. This step restores the tooth’s function and appearance, leaving you with a healthier, natural-looking smile.

Safe mercury silver filling removal in Pasadena

Pasadena Dentist is dedicated to providing safe, effective mercury silver filling removal using the SMART protocol. Our holistic approach prioritizes your overall health while ensuring a comfortable experience. With state-of-the-art technology and highly trained professionals, we aim to restore your smile safely and beautifully. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier smile in Pasadena.

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Practice Policy Update Regarding COVID-19

May 2020

Dear Valued Patient:

We hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained the same: our commitment to your safety.

Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice and you may have seen this during your visits to our office. Our infection control processes are made so that when you receive care, it’s both safe and comfortable. We want to tell you about the infection control procedures we follow in our practice to keep patients and staff safe.

Our office follows infection control recommendations made by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). We follow the activities of these agencies so that we are up-to-date on any new rulings or guidance that may be issued.

You may see some changes when it is time for your next appointment. We made these changes to help protect our patients and staff. For example:

All patients must wear a mask when entering the office.

Anyone accompanying you will be asked to wait in their vehicle.

Our office will communicate with you beforehand to ask some screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again when you are in the office.

Upon arrival at your appointment your temperature will be taken for the safety of all staff and patients.

Prior to receiving treatment you will be asked to rinse with an antimicrobial for a minimum of 30 seconds

We have hand sanitizer that we will ask you to use when you enter the office. You will also find some in the reception area and other places in the office for you to use as needed.

You may see that our waiting room will no longer offer magazines, and so forth, since those items are difficult to clean and disinfect.

UV Air purifiers have been placed throughout the office.

Appointments will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. That might mean that you’re offered fewer options for scheduling your appointment.

We will do our best to allow greater time between patients to reduce waiting times for you, as well as to reduce the number of patients in the reception area at any one time, so we ask that you do your best to be on time.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we take to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice. To make an appointment, please call our office at (626)798-7834 or visit our website at pasadenasmilecenter@yahoo.com.

Thank you for being our patient. We value your trust and loyalty and look forward to welcoming back our patients, neighbors and friends.

Sincerely, Niloufar Molayem, D.D.S. & Team

Safe Mercury Silver Filling Removal