Safe Amalgam Filling Removal – Murphy, TX

We’re SMART About
Removing Metal Dental Fillings

The International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology developed the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, or SMART. It utilizes scientific research to remove old metal fillings from teeth while minimizing exposure to mercury, which is present in amalgam. Dr. Ghandi is passionate about taking care of her patients’ health and well-being, and that includes utilizing safe techniques and materials that lower the risk of health complications. To learn more about SMART amalgam filling removal in Murphy, you can read below or give our office a call.

Why Choose Murphy Dental Home for Safe Amalgam Filling Removal?

We Utilize the Science-Backed SMART Technique
Locally Owned & Operated Dental Practice
Comprehensive Holistic Dentistry for the Entire Family

What are Amalgam Fillings & Why Should They Be Replaced?

a computer illustration of a metal filling in a tooth

Amalgam is a mixture of different types of metals that can be used to craft dental crowns and fillings. Today, they’re not typically used because a safer, more aesthetic option is available (tooth-colored fillings), but their durability made them a common and popular treatment for cavities in the past.

Amalgam contains metals like liquid mercury, copper, silver, and tin. The mercury acts as a binding agent to the other metals to help them form and seal off teeth. With time, the mercury within these fillings can release vapors that can increase the risk of various health issues, including headaches, digestive issues, kidney disease, and more.

Although the ADA asserts that the levels of mercury in amalgam fillings are small enough to be safe, our team strives to provide the highest quality of care, and that includes utilizing the latest biocompatible materials.

Cornerstones of SMART Amalgam Filling Removal

an empty dental operatory

The SMART technique utilizes the safest methods to minimize the amount of mercury vapors you’re exposed to as you’re having your amalgam filling removed with the following practices:

Pre- and Post-Charcoal Rinse: You’ll rinse and swallow charcoal, chlorella, or another similar absorbent before and after the procedure.
Adequate High-Volume Air Filtration: The room that you’ll be in will have a high-volume air filtration system capable of removing mercury vapors and amalgam particles during the treatment.
Protective PPE & Body Barriers: Everyone present will be wearing protective gowns and proper PPE. The tooth will be isolated, and the head, neck, and other parts of the body will have barriers to minimize exposure to mercury particles.
Aerosol Vacuum: A saliva ejector and oral vacuum will be in place to minimize mercury exposure.
Water to Reduce Heat: Water will be used throughout the process to help keep the filling cool and make it easier to capture and reduce mercury levels.
Removal of Filling in Sections: The amalgam filling will be separated into sections and removed in as large of pieces as possible.

The Benefits of Replacing Metal Fillings

a tube of composite resin

Once your amalgam filling has been safely removed, Dr. Ghandi can replace it with a biocompatible one crafted from tooth-colored composite resin. This material is a mixture of fine particles of ceramic, glass, or sometimes silica and is completely body-safe as well as wear-resistant. Because it can fuse with the tooth’s natural enamel, it also creates a much more reliable seal to offer better protection and minimize side-effects experienced with metal fillings, like increased dental sensitivity.