SMART- Certified Amalgam Removal Protects Systemic Health

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The Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) is a rigorous clinical protocol designed to minimize patient and staff exposure to mercury vapor during the removal of silver fillings. By utilizing specialized air filtration, high-volume suction, and protective barriers, holistic dentists ensure that mercury particulate is safely contained. This process is essential for patients in Albany seeking to replace old restorations with non-toxic, biocompatible alternatives.

Traditional “silver” fillings consist of approximately 50 percent elemental mercury, a known neurotoxin that can release vapor during the friction of removal. Dental Wellness of Albany adheres to the strict standards set by the IAOMT to mitigate this risk. On Western Avenue, our SMART-certified team utilizes an oral aerosol vacuum and an external “Elephant” air filtration system to capture vapors at the source.

Patients are provided with an independent oxygen source and a non-latex dental dam to prevent the ingestion of amalgam debris. Once the old filling is meticulously removed, the tooth is decontaminated using ozone therapy, which kills residual bacteria without the use of harsh chemicals. The tooth is then restored with a biocompatible composite or ceramic material that matches the natural expansion and contraction of tooth enamel.

This biological approach ensures that the restorative process supports, rather than compromises, your systemic wellness. By choosing a SMART-certified practice, Capital Region residents can manage their dental transitions with the highest level of safety and clinical integrity.

 

A dentist wearing gloves examines a patients teeth using a dental mirror and probe, with the patients mouth held open by a plastic guard.

What to Expect When You Get Safe Amalgam Removal 

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Are there silver fillings in your mouth? These amalgam fillings were commonly chosen for cavity treatment years ago. But advancements in the dental field have led to safer filling materials, such as porcelain. If you need any silver fillings removed, choose a dental office that offers safe amalgam removal. At Dental Wellness of Albany, our dentists in Albany, NY, can handle this for you!

What Makes Safety So Important?

Amalgam fillings contain mercury, a substance that can be toxic when inhaled. The process involved in removing these fillings requires care and precision to prevent mercury exposure, since it can accumulate in the body and cause harm.

How to Ensure Safety

Don’t trust this process to anyone. It’s important to visit a dental office that can guarantee safe amalgam removal. At Dental Wellness of Albany, Dr. Herzog has certification in the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) to ensure patient safety.

What Happens During Amalgam Removal?

This process involves several steps, including the following:

  • Installation of amalgam separators to gather mercury waste and keep it contained
  • Use of air filters and other equipment to eliminate mercury vapor
  • Solution of charcoal or other absorbents for patients
  • Full protective coverings for patients and the dental team
  • Use of a dental dam to reduce exposure to mercury
  • Drilling and sectioning of amalgam filling into large chunks
  • Use of evacuation equipment to collect mercury
  • Thorough rinsing and another solution of absorbents, such as charcoal

Schedule Safe Amalgam Removal Today!

Do you have amalgam fillings that need to be taken out? It’s important to ensure it’s done safely! At Dental Wellness of Albany, our dentist, Dr. Herzog, has the certification and knowledge needed to offer safe amalgam removal in Albany, NY.