Removing old “silver” mercury fillings is a delicate procedure that must be done safely. At KYT Dental Services, we prioritize your health by using the latest techniques and technology to eliminate mercury from your mouth without exposing you (or our team) to harmful vapors. In this comprehensive guide, we explain how our experienced dentists safely remove mercury amalgam fillings using the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol, and why choosing a mercury-free dentistry practice like KYT Dental is so important for your well-being.
What Are Mercury Amalgam Fillings and Why Remove Them?
Mercury amalgam fillings (often called silver fillings) are a mixture of metals that typically contain about 50% elemental mercury by weight. Mercury is used because it binds the other metals (like silver, tin, and copper) into a durable, hard filling. While amalgam fillings have been used for over a century due to their strength and longevity, concerns have grown because mercury is a known toxic substance. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can harm the nervous system, kidneys, lungs, and other organs.
Over time, small amounts of mercury vapor can be released from amalgam fillings – especially during chewing or exposure to hot foods/drinks. These mercury vapors, though usually low-level, can be inhaled and absorbed by the lungs into the bloodstream. In fact, the FDA notes that dental amalgams “release low levels of mercury vapor that can be inhaled,” and high levels of mercury vapor exposure have been associated with adverse effects on the brain and kidneys. This is why many patients today are interested in removing and replacing old mercury fillings with safer, mercury-free materials.
However, removing a mercury filling improperly (just “drill and fill” as usual) can temporarily release an even higher burst of mercury vapor and particles. Simply drilling out an amalgam filling without precautions “releases alarming amounts of mercury vapor and particulate matter”, which could be hazardous if inhaled. For this reason, it’s crucial to use specialized safety protocols when taking out mercury fillings. Even the FDA cautions against removing amalgam restorations without cause, because improper removal can expose patients to a spike in mercury vapor.
So, if you choose to remove your old silver fillings, it’s important to do it the safe way. KYT Dental Services has the expertise and equipment to replace your amalgam fillings under highly controlled conditions, so you get the benefits of mercury-free teeth without the risks. Next, we’ll detail exactly how we remove mercury fillings safely.
How Mercury Filling Removal Works (Safely)
Mercury filling removal involves taking out the old amalgam material and replacing it with a new, biocompatible filling (such as composite resin). The goal is to extract the mercury-laden filling while minimizing any release of mercury during the process. Here’s how our dentists approach mercury removal safely:
- Isolation of the Tooth: The tooth with the amalgam is isolated from the rest of your mouth, typically using a rubber dam (a protective latex or non-latex sheet). This isolation ensures that loose debris or mercury particles don’t go down your throat or touch soft tissues. The rubber dam acts as a barrier so you don’t swallow any bits of amalgam and it confines any vapor to the immediate area of the tooth.
- Cooling and Sectioning the Filling: Rather than grinding the entire filling out (which creates heat and vapor), we use a technique called sectioning. The dentist will cut the amalgam into smaller chunks using a small drill, and do so under copious water spray to keep the filling cool. Keeping the filling cool with water reduces the release of mercury vapor. By breaking the filling into large pieces that can be lifted out, we avoid generating a lot of mercury-laden dust. The mantra is “less drilling = less vapor.” As one source notes, “using copious water and high-speed suction to keep the filling cool and sectioning the amalgam into chunks” significantly reduces mercury exposure during removal.
- High-Speed Evacuation (Suction): As the filling is sectioned and removed, one or more high-volume suction devices are used simultaneously to capture the mercury debris and vapor right at the source. One suction tip (evacuator) is usually kept just millimeters away from the tooth to vacuum up particles and aerosol on the spot. KYT Dental also employs an additional external vacuum system to suck away mercury vapor in the air (more on our special equipment below). This dual-suction approach means that as soon as mercury is freed, it’s pulled away into filtered containers, rather than lingering in your mouth or the operatory air. According to SMART protocols, “high-volume evacuation systems are essential… to capture mercury vapor and particles at the source,” combined with room air filtration for maximum safety.
- Safe Removal of Amalgam Pieces: The chunked-out pieces of amalgam are carefully lifted out of the tooth and disposed of in a secure container (following hazardous waste guidelines). Throughout the removal, we continuously suction away all debris and use water to wash out the site. A smaller secondary suction (saliva ejector) is often placed under the dam as well to catch anything that might sneak past. By the time we’re finished, almost no trace of mercury remains in your mouth – except perhaps an extremely minute vapor residue, which we address with thorough post-rinse protocols.
- Post-Removal Rinse and Clean-up: After the amalgam is out, we thoroughly rinse your mouth with water (sometimes an activated charcoal or chlorella rinse is given for you to swish, which can bind any residual mercury particles) The rubber dam is carefully removed in a way that avoids any trapped particles from falling into your mouth All the protective barriers and filters are removed and disposed of safely. The dental team follows a strict clean-up process for any contact surfaces, and the removed mercury bits are stored for proper hazardous waste disposal – nothing goes down our sink or into the environment. The SMART protocol even includes using amalgam separators in the office plumbing, so any microscopic waste is captured and kept out of public wastewater.
Once the area is clean, we will evaluate the tooth and then restore it with a new filling (composite or porcelain) that is 100% mercury-free and BPA-free. In most cases, the removal and replacement can be done in the same visit, so you leave our office with a new, safer filling in place of the old one. You’ll immediately notice the difference in appearance – no more dark silver in your teeth – and you can have peace of mind that any future exposure from that filling is gone.
The SMART Protocol: Minimizing Mercury Exposure
At KYT Dental Services, our mercury removal process adheres to the SMART protocol, which stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. This protocol was developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) to “outline procedures and equipment to minimize mercury exposure and protect patients and dental professionals” during amalgam removal.. In other words, SMART is a comprehensive safety checklist that we follow meticulously whenever we take out a mercury filling. Here are the key components of the SMART protocol and how they keep you safe:
Isolation and Containment: We isolate the treatment area with a non-latex rubber dam that covers your mouth except for the tooth being worked on. This barrier prevents you from swallowing or inhaling any mercury debris . It’s like a safety curtain between the tooth and your throat – everything behind the dam stays out of your system. We also cover your body with a disposable drape and often provide protective eyewear or goggles. By covering skin, clothes, and eyes, we ensure that no tiny particles of mercury settle on you. Our dental team also wears enhanced protective gear (special mercury-rated face masks, face shields, hair covers, etc.) so we don’t breathe in vapors or carry contamination on our clothing. Both patient and staff being fully protected is a cornerstone of SMART.
Alternative Air Source (Oxygen Mask): While we work, you won’t be breathing the air around your mouth at all – you’ll have an alternate air supply. We typically place a comfortable nasal mask that delivers clean oxygen or air for you to breathe during the procedure. This ensures that even if some mercury vapor escapes, you’re not inhaling it. You’re breathing fresh air from a tank, not the operating air. A holistic dental clinic described this well: “A breathing mask delivers a clean air supply... so you don’t inhale mercury vapor”. This is a critical step for keeping mercury out of your lungs and bloodstream.
High-Volume Suction and Vacuum: As described earlier, SMART protocol calls for aggressive use of suction to capture mercury at the source. KYT Dental uses advanced high-volume evacuators and special vacuum systems. In our office, we have invested in a cutting-edge extraoral suction unit – essentially a large tube or “elephant nose” vacuum that sits just inches from your mouth to suck up any vapor or aerosol. (Many SMART-certified dentists use devices like the IQAir Dental Hg FlexVac or DentAirVac systems for this purpose) This device has a 5-inch wide flexible hose that we position near the dental dam; it powerfully draws in air, mercury vapor, and aerosol spray, running it through multiple filters (including HEPA and activated carbon filters designed to capture mercury vapor) before releasing clean air. By having this vacuum in addition to the usual dental suction, we create a one-two punch that immediately captures mercury fumes and particles. In fact, dentists report that using these specialized vacuums filters out mercury vapors from the air during removal and an advanced suction system collects the particles. The benefit is that mercury levels in the operatory air stay extremely low, protecting you, the dentist, and the assistant simultaneously. KYT Dental’s high-tech vacuum effectively prevents mercury from ever reaching your breathing zone. As an added precaution, we also run room air purifiers with medical-grade filters during and after the procedure to scrub any residual traces in the environment.
Water Coolant and Sectioning: We strictly follow the SMART guidelines for drilling out the filling in a way that minimizes vapor. As mentioned, our dentists use copious water spray to keep the amalgam cool while drilling. We use a sectioning technique – cutting the filling into larger chunks that can be lifted out, rather than grinding it all to dust. These steps drastically reduce the amount of mercury that becomes airborne. A high-speed suction tip right by the tooth immediately whisks away the water and mercury bits as we drill. This method has been shown to keep mercury exposure to a minimum. By contrast, if one were to simply drill out an entire filling without water or breaks, it could release a significant vapor plume. We never do that. Our team is trained to go slow, keep things cool, and remove the filling safely piece by piece.
Patient Rinse and Adsorbents: Before we even start the removal, we often have patients rinse with a binding agent like activated charcoal or chlorella. The IAOMT recommendations include having the patient “rinse and swallow a slurry of adsorbents like charcoal or chlorella” before the procedure. This can help by binding any mercury that might be accidentally swallowed. After the procedure, we may give you another dose of charcoal or a similar adsorbent, and have you rinse thoroughly. These are optional holistic steps, but at KYT Dental we offer them for patients who want the extra measure of detox support.
Every step of the SMART protocol is designed with one thing in mind: keep mercury exposure as close to zero as possible. By following this stringent protocol, we ensure that removing your amalgam filling is no more risky than keeping it, and in fact prevents you from the continuous low-level exposure that an old amalgam might cause. Our commitment to SMART means you can trust that your health is being guarded at every moment of the procedure. It’s worth noting that not every dental office goes to these lengths. KYT Dental Services has made the choice to be a mercury-safe practice because we truly care about the long-term health of our patients and staff. We’ve invested in training and equipment to meet the SMART standards. When you have your mercury fillings removed by a SMART-certified (or SMART-following) dentist, you can feel confident that every precaution is taken to avoid mercury exposure – from a rubber dam and external suction “to prevent swallowing any debris or inhaling any mercury vapor”, to protective gear and proper ventilation. We treat mercury as the hazardous material it is, so that you don’t have to worry.
KYT Dental’s Advanced High-Tech Equipment Keeps Mercury Out of Your System
One of the things that sets KYT Dental Services apart is our state-of-the-art equipment for safe mercury removal. We leave nothing to chance. Our office is equipped with specialized tools that go above and beyond standard dental practice, specifically to handle mercury safely. Here’s how our high-tech setup protects you by preventing mercury exposure (even at the microscopic level):
- Extraoral Vacuum with HEPA & Carbon Filters: We use an advanced oral aerosol vacuum system that sits close to the patient’s mouth throughout the removal. This machine features a flexible arm we position near the treatment area, and it powerfully suctions away mercury vapors and aerosols the moment they are released. Inside the unit, multiple filters (including ULPA/HEPA filters and activated carbon) trap mercury particles and vapor. This is the same type of equipment recommended by the IAOMT for SMART – for example, the IQAir Dental Hg FlexVac or similar devices are proven to capture mercury vapor at the source. By using this technology, KYT Dental ensures that virtually no mercury vapor escapes into the room or your breathing air. Any mercury that is drilled out is immediately pulled into a sealed filtration system. This keeps the air you inhale clean and mercury-free, effectively keeping mercury out of your lungs and bloodstream. (Remember, mercury vapor is most dangerous when inhaled. Our high-volume vacuum prevents you from inhaling those vapors in the first place.)
- Clean Air Supply for the Patient: As mentioned, we provide an alternative air source via a comfortable nose mask. This means while we work, you are breathing 100% clean oxygen or medical air, not the ambient air that could contain mercury. This simple but crucial piece of equipment (similar to what’s used during sedation or nitrous oxide) ensures that no mercury vapor can enter your body through inhalation, because you’re not breathing the surrounding air at all. It’s an essential safety measure and part of our standard protocol for every mercury removal patient.
- Dental Dam and High-Speed Suction: Our dentists utilize modern dental dam systems (we use non-latex dams to accommodate allergies and ensure durability). The dam is securely placed to seal around the tooth being treated. We pair this with a high-speed evacuation suction that runs continuously during the procedure. The suction line is often placed just below the dam or alongside the tooth. Its job is to pull away any water, amalgam pieces, and vapor immediately as the filling is being removed. KYT Dental employs dual suction: one large vacuum hose externally (as described above) and one intraoral suction inside the dam. With these two working together, the exposure is greatly minimized. One dentist described using both a top-of-the-line mercury vapor vacuum and a suction under the dam as part of a safe removal protocol– this is exactly the approach we take as well. The result is that mercury is captured from above the tooth and below it, leaving no room for it to escape into your mouth or air.
- Amalgam Separator and Waste Protocol: We have an amalgam separator installed in our office plumbing, which is a device that catches mercury waste from the suction lines before it can enter the wastewater system. All the debris we collect from your filling goes into this sealed container. Mercury is a pollutant, and we take environmental responsibility seriously. The separator ensures that mercury chunks or powder don’t wash into public water. We dispose of the collected amalgam material through licensed hazardous waste services, in compliance with all regulations. For you as a patient, this means extra peace of mind – not only are we protecting your health, but we’re also protecting the environment and our community from mercury contamination. Mercury-free dentistry is eco-friendly dentistry.
- Continuous Air Monitoring (if needed): In particularly extensive mercury removal cases (like multiple fillings), our team can employ mercury vapor indicators to monitor the air. While usually our equipment keeps vapor levels negligible, we don’t hesitate to take measurements if there’s any concern. We want to be absolutely sure that the air is safe to breathe during and after the procedure. We also keep our treatment room ventilated and may use additional room air purifiers that circulate the air through filters continuously.
All of this advanced equipment serves one purpose: to keep you and our staff safe from mercury exposure at all times. By using a combination of barriers, suction, filtration, and clean air, we effectively prevent mercury from entering your bloodstream or lungs during the removal. According to Mount Sinai medical resources, breathing mercury vapor is how it most readily enters the bloodstream and can cause damage to vital organs like the kidneys or brain. That’s why our high-tech vacuum and filtration is such a critical component – it stops you from breathing in mercury. Similarly, swallowing any sizeable piece of mercury is prevented by the dam (and even if one did, elemental mercury typically isn’t absorbed through digestion easily, but we still absolutely avoid ingestion).
In short, KYT Dental has every angle of mercury exposure covered and controlled. We’ve adopted the best equipment that modern dentistry offers for this specialized task. Many general dentists do not invest in these extra measures, but as a mercury-safe office, we feel it’s not just worth it – it’s necessary. Our patients’ health is our top priority, and we spare no expense in protecting it. When you come to us for amalgam removal, you can expect a high-tech, safety-first experience where the mercury from your old filling goes into our filters and containers – not into you.
Benefits of Choosing Mercury-Free Dentistry
Moving to mercury-free dentistry by replacing old amalgam fillings with modern alternatives can offer numerous benefits for your health and peace of mind. Here are some key advantages of mercury-free dentistry and why so many patients are making the switch:
- No More Toxic Exposure: The obvious benefit is eliminating the primary source of mercury exposure in your mouth. You won’t have to worry about trace mercury vapors from fillings when eating, drinking, or grinding your teeth. Mercury-free restorative materials (like composite resins and porcelain) contain no mercury at all, so you reduce any potential health risk associated with mercury. For patients who are health-conscious or have symptoms they suspect were related to mercury, this can bring enormous relief. It’s one less heavy metal burden on your body.
- Protects Your Overall Health: Mercury is associated with various health issues (neurological, immune, etc.), and while debate continues in traditional dentistry, many feel better knowing they have no toxic metals in their teeth. Especially for those in sensitive groups (pregnant women, young children, people with kidney or neurological conditions), avoiding mercury is prudent. By choosing mercury-free fillings, you align with a more holistic approach to health. You’re also protecting dental workers and the environment from mercury exposure, which is a broader health benefit for the community.
- Preserves More Tooth Structure: Mercury-free filling materials (composites) typically allow dentists to be more conservative when prepping the tooth. With amalgam, dentists often had to remove more healthy tooth structure to create mechanical retention for the filling. Composites bond to the tooth, so we can do a smaller preparation. This means more of your natural tooth is saved. In the long run, preserving tooth structure helps maintain strength and can reduce the risk of fractures. So, replacing a large old amalgam with a well-bonded composite or onlay could actually strengthen your tooth or at least prevent the additional cracks that older amalgams might cause.
- Reduced Chance of Tooth Cracks and Decay: Amalgam can expand and contract with temperature changes, sometimes leading to microcracks in the tooth over years. It’s also common for decay to sneak under aging amalgams if they corrode or pull away at the edges. By removing these older fillings, we can check the tooth for any hidden decay or cracks and repair it before it becomes a bigger issue. The new restoration will be sealed and metal-free. Patients often report that previously sensitive teeth with metal fillings feel better after replacement, likely because any leakage or hairline cracks were resolved.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Let’s not forget the cosmetic benefit. Composite resin fillings and porcelain restorations are tooth-colored and virtually invisible in your smile. In contrast, silver amalgams are dark and very noticeable when you laugh or open wide. By switching to mercury-free fillings, your teeth will look more natural. Many patients love that their old “dark spots” are gone, replaced by restorations that match the color of their enamel. It’s a boost to your confidence knowing your dental work isn’t visible when you talk or grin.
- Environmental Responsibility: Choosing mercury-free dentistry is also better for the planet. Dental mercury is classified as hazardous waste. When we reduce the use of mercury and properly remove it, we prevent it from entering the water supply and ecosystem. The SMART removal process includes measures for safe disposal (like amalgam separators and special waste handling) By patronizing a mercury-safe dentist, you’re contributing to a more environmentally-friendly form of dentistry. It’s a feel-good bonus, knowing your personal health choice also benefits the environment.
- Increased Patient Confidence and Trust: Many patients seek out mercury-safe dentists because it demonstrates a higher standard of care and caution. When you know your dentist is mindful of toxic substances and prioritizes safety, it builds trust. You can feel confident that all materials used in your treatment are vetted for biocompatibility and that your well-being is front and center. Removing mercury fillings safely often aligns with a philosophy of dentistry that is more holistic and patient-centric, which can mean a more comfortable and personalized dental experience overall. You’re part of a partnership focused on your long-term health, not just quick fixes.
In summary, mercury-free dentistry is about improving your health, protecting your teeth, and giving you a beautiful smile without compromise. It addresses concerns about mercury exposure and offers strong, aesthetically pleasing alternatives. At KYT Dental Services, we are proud to be both mercury-free (we don’t place amalgam fillings) and mercury-safe (we follow strict protocols to remove mercury safely) in our practice. This commitment to mercury-free dentistry means you get the safest, most advanced care available. The benefits range from tangible health outcomes to the simple peace of mind of knowing you’ve eliminated a potential toxin from your body.
If you’ve been considering replacing your old silver fillings, the benefits above make a compelling case. Next, we’ll address some common questions patients have about the safety and process of mercury removal.
Addressing Common Patient Concerns about Mercury Removal
It’s normal to have questions or anxieties about removing mercury fillings. After all, the idea of “releasing mercury” during the process can sound worrisome. At KYT Dental, patient education and comfort are top priorities – we want you to feel fully informed and confident in your decision. Let’s tackle some of the common concerns patients express regarding safe mercury amalgam removal:
- “Will I be exposed to mercury during the removal?” – This is the number one concern. The honest answer is that without proper precautions, removing an amalgam can expose you to mercury – but that’s exactly why we use the SMART protocol. When done correctly, mercury exposure is extremely minimal. All the safety measures (dam, suction, vacuum, etc.) are specifically designed to protect you from mercury. Studies and clinical protocols have shown that using these controls keeps mercury levels well below harmful limits during removal. We take every precaution so that the amount of mercury you might absorb is as low as if not lower than what you’d get leaving the filling in. In fact, many patients likely get more mercury from years of having the filling than from our one-time removal procedure. So yes, the procedure is safe. You will be outfitted with protective gear and a clean air supply, and our equipment will be actively suctioning away mercury at all times. The tiny residual that might enter your system is negligible and often immediately bound by the charcoal rinse we provide. We understand the fear, but rest assured: your safety is our paramount concern, and we have an excellent track record of mercury-safe removals.
- “Is the procedure painful or risky in other ways?” – Removing a filling under SMART conditions is not much different from a normal filling procedure in terms of sensation. You will receive local anesthesia to numb the tooth, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the process. You might notice the extra equipment (like the vacuum and dam), but most patients adapt to that quickly and are just happy to know it’s keeping them safe. The appointment does take a little longer than a standard filling replacement because we go slower and use more steps. But aside from the mercury precautions, it’s a routine dental procedure. There are no incisions or anything invasive – we’re just working on the tooth structure. As with any filling, there’s a small risk of things like tooth sensitivity afterward or, rarely, damage to the tooth if it had cracks (which we will repair). But there are no unique risks to mercury removal beyond the mercury itself, which we are managing. Our team’s training and the specialized tools actually make the procedure very controlled and methodical. Many patients are surprised at how easy and uneventful the appointment is, given all the preparation. We’ll make sure you’re comfortable (we can offer noise-cancelling headphones or even mild sedation if you’re anxious). Think of it as a regular filling appointment, just with NASA-level safety protocols engaged!
- “What is the recovery like after I remove a mercury filling?” – For the majority of patients, recovery is quick and mild, very similar to getting a normal filling. You might have some numbness for a few hours from the anesthesia. Once that wears off, there could be minor soreness in the injection site or jaw if you were open for a while. The tooth that was worked on may be slightly sensitive to bite or temperature for a few days (especially if it was a big filling). This is typical and usually subsides as the tooth settles with the new filling. You generally do not have to take any special medications or do any significant aftercare beyond what we normally recommend for a filling (good oral hygiene and maybe avoiding super hard foods on that tooth for a day or two). If we used a charcoal or supplement rinse, we might advise you to drink plenty of water afterward to aid in flushing any residual. Some holistic-minded patients choose to continue taking activated charcoal or other detox supplements for a day or two after removal – this is optional and up to you; it’s not required from a dental standpoint, but it can offer peace of mind. We’ll provide personalized instructions if any are needed. The good news is, there is no illness or systemic upset expected after removing amalgam safely. Because we prevent mercury from getting into your system, you should feel no different, health-wise, immediately after. Over time, some patients even report improved health symptoms (like headaches or fatigue) once they’ve been rid of their mercury fillings, but that’s individual. At the very least, you won’t be dealing with any extra mercury burden post-removal, so your body can carry on normally. If you do experience anything unusual, we’re only a phone call away – but complications are quite rare.
- “Why should I replace my mercury fillings if they aren’t bothering me?” – You might wonder, if your old amalgam filling isn’t causing pain, why not leave it? This is a personal decision, but there are good reasons to consider replacement. First, as discussed, you eliminate the source of daily mercury exposure in your mouth by removing it. Second, amalgam fillings tend to wear out, leak, or cause cracks in teeth over time. You may not see or feel it yet, but many times there can be decay starting at the edges or a fracture line under an old silver filling. By being proactive and replacing it, you can prevent more serious dental problems (like a needed crown or root canal down the road). Third, the new filling will be tooth-colored and likely make your tooth stronger if done with modern bonded materials. It’s an upgrade to your dental work. If you have any health concerns that you suspect are related to heavy metals or you simply want to be as healthy as possible, getting rid of mercury is a logical step. Mercury fillings have been linked (controversially) to various health issues; while organizations like the ADA maintain they’re generally safe, they do acknowledge certain people (pregnant women, children, those with allergies) should be cautious. If you prefer a preventative, wellness-oriented approach, replacing amalgams with inert, biocompatible materials is the way to go. Finally, many patients just feel better mentally knowing that their mouth is metal-free. There’s a peace of mind and empowerment in taking charge of your health in this way. So even if your mercury filling isn’t “bothering” you now, removing it safely can be an investment in your future health and in the longevity of your tooth.
- “Is it really necessary to go through all these safety steps? What if my regular dentist just drills it out quickly?” – We strongly advise against letting anyone remove an amalgam filling without proper safety measures. As we noted, drilling it out improperly can expose you to a hefty dose of mercury in one sitting. You don’t want that. The specialized steps we take are absolutely necessary to avoid this toxic exposure. Dentists who are not trained in mercury-safe techniques might downplay the risk, but the science is clear that mercury vapor is released during removal. Those vapors can be absorbed into your body and even cause acute symptoms if in high amounts. Why take that risk? Our stance is: if you’re going to remove a mercury filling, do it the safest way possible. That’s why KYT Dental is proud to offer the SMART protocol. We have the training and equipment, so for us it’s routine. For you, it ensures your safety. The extra steps do not harm or inconvenience you – if anything, they protect your health. Even other dental offices that advertise “mercury-safe” might vary in how many precautions they use; we adhere to the full spectrum of recommendations (from air filtration to protective gowns) because we take your trust seriously. It might look a bit “space-age” to have all the gear on, but you can relax knowing you’re in a controlled, safe environment. We always tell patients: your health is worth the extra effort! And once you experience it, you’ll appreciate the thoroughness. Don’t ever feel bad about insisting on safety when it comes to mercury. We’re here because we agree – it matters.
- “What do you replace the mercury filling with? Are the new materials safe?” – We replace amalgam fillings with mercury-free, biocompatible materials. In most cases, that will be a composite resin filling that is matched to your tooth color. At KYT Dental, we use BPA-free composites to avoid any other potential toxins. These modern composites are very durable and bond directly to the tooth, sealing it. For larger cavities or if you prefer, we can also use porcelain restorations (like inlays/onlays or crowns) which are also metal-free and very strong. Porcelain is an excellent option for big restorations and contains no resin. Both composite and porcelain have been proven safe and effective. They have no mercury, no heavy metals. Some composites have trace amounts of ingredients like bis-GMA or other components; if patients have specific concerns or sensitivities, we can choose a material that suits them (there are different brands, including holistic lines, and even ceramic hybrids). Generally, the materials we use are well-tolerated by the vast majority of people. We’re happy to discuss the options and even provide information on the material composition if you’re interested. The bottom line is, your new filling will be not only safer but also more attractive. It will blend in with your natural tooth. Many patients say their tooth feels smoother or more comfortable with the new filling because it bonds seamlessly. So yes – the replacements are safe, and we ensure you get a high-quality restoration that improves your dental health.
- “Is it safe to remove mercury fillings if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?” – This is an important question. The IAOMT strongly advises against amalgam removal during pregnancy or nursing as a precaution. Even though our safety measures minimize exposure, pregnancy is a time we avoid any elective procedures that could introduce risk. If you are pregnant, we recommend waiting until after delivery (and breastfeeding) to remove mercury fillings, unless there’s an urgent need (like the filling is cracked or causing decay). The reason is that mercury can potentially affect the fetus or infant, and we err on the side of caution. If you’re planning to become pregnant, some patients choose to remove fillings before trying to conceive, which is a reasonable idea – just do it a few months in advance to allow your body to clear any tiny exposure and settle with new fillings. During breastfeeding, similarly, it’s better to hold off on removal. We’ll still be here to safely treat you once that period is over. Always inform your dentist if you are or think you might be pregnant, so we can tailor our recommendations. For other patients with health conditions (such as those with heavy metal allergies or kidney issues), we take special care and coordinate with your physician if needed. But for routine cases, aside from pregnancy, there’s no contra-indication to safe mercury removal. We make it as risk-free as possible. If you have concerns about your specific health situation, we will gladly consult with you and perhaps modify the plan (like doing one filling at a time, or providing additional detox support) to ensure you feel comfortable proceeding. Your individual health needs are always taken into account.
We hope these explanations alleviate your concerns. At KYT Dental Services, we truly understand the fears and questions that come with the decision to remove mercury fillings. That’s why we emphasize communication: we’ll talk you through the process, show you our safety setup, and make sure all your questions are answered before we begin. Our team has extensive experience in mercury-safe practices, so you’re not our first rodeo – you’re in very capable hands. With the SMART protocol and our advanced equipment, we have confidently and safely treated many patients wanting mercury out of their mouths. The end result is almost always the same: patients say, “Wow, that was easier than I thought!” and they feel relieved to know the mercury is gone for good. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask us directly. Now, if you’re ready to take the next step toward a healthier, mercury-free smile, here’s what to do.
Ready for a Mercury-Free Smile? Schedule Your Safe Removal with KYT Dental Today!
Your oral health and overall wellness are too important to leave to chance. If you have one or more mercury amalgam fillings and have been concerned about their effects, don’t put it off any longer – take action by choosing a dental practice that puts your safety first. KYT Dental Services is here to provide you with a safe, stress-free mercury removal experience using the SMART protocol and our cutting-edge protective technology. We’ve helped countless patients transition to mercury-free dentistry, and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Imagine the relief of knowing that your old toxic fillings have been replaced with healthy, modern materials under the care of experts who took every precaution to protect you. No more worrying about what that metal in your mouth might be doing to your health. No more unsightly silver when you smile. Just a clean, strong, natural-looking filling and the peace of mind that comes with it.
Take the first step toward a healthier, mercury-free smile by calling KYT Dental Services today to schedule your Safe Mercury Removal appointment. Our friendly team will answer any remaining questions and find a convenient time for you to come in. During your visit, we’ll perform a thorough exam and consultation, discussing which fillings you want replaced and creating a personalized treatment plan. We’ll also explain exactly how we’ll keep you safe throughout the process – we want you to feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.
At KYT Dental, we pride ourselves on blending advanced dental science with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. When you choose us for SMART mercury removal, you’re choosing a dental home that values Our dentists have the expertise (and certification) in safe amalgam removal, our office is equipped with state-of-the-art safety devices, and our commitment to your health is unwavering.
Don’t let mercury fillings weigh on your mind any longer. Make the smart choice with the SMART protocol – let us help you safely remove those old fillings and restore your teeth with beautiful, mercury-free alternatives. Your health, your smile, and your peace of mind will all improve as a result.
Contact Us
Ready to get started? Contact KYT Dental Services to schedule your mercury filling removal consultation. You can reach us by phone or through our website’s appointment request form. Act now and take control of your oral health! We look forward to providing you with the safe, mercury-free dental care you deserve.
Your safety is our promise – experience the difference of mercury-free dentistry done the right way. Let KYT Dental Services be your partner in achieving a toxin-free, radiant smile. Schedule your appointment today and step into a healthier future with confidence!
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)