SMART DentistryWest Palm Beach, FL
With SMART dentistry, we can help to get rid of toxic mercury fillings that may have treated cavities in the past. The acronym stands for the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. SMART dentistry involves using techniques approved by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IOAMT) to remove and dispose of mercury fillings safely.
SMART dentistry is available at Pure Dental Care in West Palm Beach and the surrounding area. While mercury fillings are a common form of filling among general dentists, the mercury is not healthy for the body and can cause issues over time. We can use SMART dentistry to remove the mercury and replace it successfully.
Call 561-439-4620 to set up an appointment with Dr. Keith to learn more about how we can remove toxic mercury-containing fillings from your teeth.
Benefits of SMART Dentistry
The benefits of removing mercury amalgam fillings with SMART dentistry include:
- Other alternatives like composite resin fillings provide improved aesthetics
- Removing fillings that contain mercury improves the patient's health
- Smart dentistry uses techniques that minimize the patient's exposure to mercury vapor
- Pregnant women and their developing babies are less likely to develop complications due to mercury exposure
How SMART Dentistry Works
Dentists have to earn a certification from the IAOMT to practice smart dentistry. For decades, fillings like silver amalgam that contained mercury were the norm, but that was before medical professionals realized how toxic mercury was. The slow release of mercury from fillings can cause health issues over time.
There is now a shift to using other filling materials like composites, especially since these alternatives usually provide better aesthetics as well. Silver amalgam fillings tend to have a dark greyish color that can be easily spotted when opening the mouth.
If you are one of the many people who already have fillings that contain mercury, getting it removed by a certified SMART dentist can improve your health. After removing the toxic fillings, we will recommend a safer alternative.
How Mercury in Fillings Impacts Your Health
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), trace amounts of mercury will not have a noticeable impact on a person's health, but higher concentrations can lead to issues like headaches, memory loss, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and other health problems.
The removal of silver amalgam fillings can leave a patient exposed to mercury vapor, which is just as bad. We use specialized equipment to remove and safely dispose of fillings that contain mercury. Dentists have extra incentives to keep the patient's exposure to mercury to a minimum since they also face exposure to it during the procedure. Unlike the patient, the dentist might perform such treatments several times a day, increasing their exposure.
Alternatives to Mercury Amalgam Fillings
One regular option for filling materials is composite resin. Using them to fix cavities is inexpensive, and the composite can be color-matched to the patient's teeth. Composite resins do not contain any mercury or other metals, making them a safer option than amalgam fillings.
Call Us Today
Call 561-439-4620 to learn more and get started with SMART dentistry. Our team will get rid of your amalgam fillings and apply safer, more aesthetically-pleasing alternative fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is removing mercury-containing amalgam fillings dangerous?
No. However, leaving these fillings in the mouth can lead to health issues, especially for patients who are pregnant. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, exposure to mercury can have a devastating effect on fetuses and newborns. There are a few risks associated with the removal of amalgam fillings like exposure to mercury vapor, but SMART certified dentists have the necessary equipment to deal with this.
Why is mercury added to fillings?
Mercury makes up about 50% of amalgam fillings, while metals like silver, tin, or copper make up the rest. The mercury helps to bind the alloys into a durable filling material.
How does mercury affect my body?
The buildup of mercury in the body leads to bioaccumulation. This is a steady increase in a chemical's concentration in the tissues and organs in the body. Mercury tends to accumulate in areas like the kidney and brain, and that leads to these organs getting damaged.
What are the benefits of composite resin fillings over amalgam?
Composites are the preferred way to deal with tooth decay nowadays. It involves using a mixture of resins to fill up cavities on a patient's teeth. Composite fillings can provide better aesthetics since they can be color-matched to the patient's teeth. Unlike silver amalgam fillings, composite resin fillings do not contain any mercury. Their application also requires the removal of a smaller portion of enamel compared to amalgam fillings.
Contact Us
Pure Dental Care is located at
2326 S Congress Ave Suite 1D
West Palm Beach,
FL
33406
Recent Posts
A Dentist Goes Over What You Need To Know About Getting A Dental Crown
Thinking you might need a Dental Crown? Understanding that dental restorations often involve using a dental crown is necessary, as patients who are in need of dental restorations will often have one or more crowns placed in their mouths. A dental restoration is necessary for patients who have damaged and/or missing teeth, making it essential…
Choosing The Right Family Dentist
The choice of a Family Dentist demands serious considerations. Healthy teeth and gums are important, and maintaining good oral health requires regular visits to the dentist. Therefore, you need to consider the qualities of the dentist and a schedule that works for everyone. This article provides tips on choosing the right dental professional for your…
Repairing Front Teeth With A Full Mouth Reconstruction
Full Mouth Reconstruction is a great way to restore the appearance, oral health, and function of your dentition if you have multiple teeth that are damaged or missing. Each reconstruction treatment plan is tailored to meet the patient’s specific goals, needs, and desires, and there are multiple treatment options that are available throughout the process.Everyone…
What Happens During A Visit With A General Dentist?
Understanding what happens during a general dentist visit allows patients to know what to expect. They are then more likely to undergo any necessary treatment that they need for good oral health. Knowing what to expect also helps those who experience dental anxiety.Wondering if a general dentist in West Palm Beach can provide you with…
Gum Disease: 5 Things You Need To Know
Despite the prevalence of gum disease, not every patient is aware of the risks and implications of this condition. By acquiring enough information about this ailment, you will be able to take the appropriate measures to curb and prevent its occurrence.In this article, you will learn about the important facts everyone needs to know about…