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Safe Amalgam Filling Removal – Scottsdale, AZ
Creating Natural Smiles by Removing Toxic Metal
Advancements in dentistry have made it possible for patients to have a say in what goes in their mouth. At Shea Dental of Scottsdale, Dr. Raiffe can create natural smiles by removing existing toxic metals (mercury-based amalgam). As a dentist who is accredited through the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT), he is one of two in Phoenix who can perform The SMART Protocol. Call our Scottsdale dental office to find out more about SMART and how we can put your smile on the right path.
Why Choose Shea Dental of Scottsdale for Safe Amalgam Filling Removal?
- Dentist with IAOMT Accreditation
- Dental Team That Cares About Patient Safety & Well-Being
- Innovative Technologies for Improved Patient Comfort
Health Concerns with Amalgam Fillings
When it comes to the pros and cons of traditional amalgam fillings, dentists and patients alike have found there are often more negative aspects than positive ones. Not only does it stand out and make it obvious to others that you have undergone dental work, but its shiny presence can be harmful to your oral and overall health.
Amalgam contains mercury, which is highly toxic to humans. Over time, fillings and other similar restorations can emit small amounts of mercury vapor into the bloodstream through bruxism (teeth grinding) and chewing. Although the amount that is released may be minimal, the idea of having this kind of toxic inside the body can be enough for many patients to seek removal.
This is where Dr. Raiffe can perform The SMART Protocol to safely remove the amalgam.
Who Should Consider Amalgam Filling Removal?
Generally, anyone who has received amalgam fillings in the past can have them removed and replaced with a tooth-colored filling option. However, certain patients may be strongly urged to undergo this process simply because of their age, overall health, or current state. These individuals can include:
- Those who are pregnant or nursing
- Those who have metal allergies
- Those who have health-related conditions such as kidney disease or neurological deficiencies
- Children under the age of six
The SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) Protocol
As a multi-step process, Dr. Raiffe will be sure to follow all necessary protocols to ensure that everyone remains safe throughout the procedure. There are careful considerations that Dr. Raiffe must take, such as wearing protective equipment and making sure there is proper ventilation and airflow throughout the room.
Once everything is set up, the process will begin by using a dental dam to isolate the tooth and protect the remaining areas of your mouth. A nasal mask will be put into place so that you do not inhale any mercury vapors. To reduce exposure to your body and clothing, appropriate barriers will be set up as well.
When removing the amalgam, our team will use specialized equipment (i.e., aerosol vacuum) to reduce the amount of mercury vapor, and water will be injected into the filling area. When removing the mercury, a uniquely designed drill will help to section it into chunks so that it can be removed as easily as possible.
Once finished, your mouth will be flushed with water before an adsorbent is used as a rinse to get any remaining harmful mercury out of your mouth.