09
Dec
The Truth Behind Safe Mercury Filling Removal and Mercury-Free Dentistry
If you’re of a “certain age,” you may still have old silver fillings in your mouth. These are mercury fillings, and it’s essential to remove them carefully because removing mercury fillings without proper precautions can increase mercury vapors and result in toxicity. You need a mercury-free dentist, such as Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh at Modern Smile Dental, so you’re as safe as possible when removing these outdated fillings. She has a special certification for safely removing them.
What Is the Safe Mercury Filling Removal Technique?
SMART is an acronym for: Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. It’s more than just a catchy phrase. SMART is a formal set of guidelines developed by the IAOMT, an organization dedicated to biological dentistry.
SMART is a detailed technique that involves various precautions. All are designed to minimize your exposure to mercury vapor and particles when Dr. Janbakhsh removes the fillings. Â
Why Is Safe Mercury Filling Removal Important?
The SMART process protects you, the dental team, and the environment. When an old mercury filling is removed with a drill, it releases mercury vapor, which is not something you want to breathe in.
Safe removal involves protective garments and a separate air source to keep you breathing in clean air during the process. The team also utilizes high-volume air filtration and specialized evacuation devices that capture mercury particles and vapors.
How Does Removing Mercury Fillings Affect My Health and the Environment?
Mercury particles can enter the water supply, posing a significant environmental concern. The SMART protocol prevents this by trapping all waste and utilizing specialized separators to capture the mercury. It can then be safely and properly disposed of.
How Do I Know if I Need to Replace My Old Mercury Fillings?
Some of these signs might mean you need to replace your old fillings:
- Teeth are sensitive
- Visible cracks in the filling
- Darkening around the edges of the filling
- A rough or crumbling texture
- It hurts when you bite down on that tooth
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What Are the Alternatives to Mercury Fillings?
Composite and ceramic fillings are the best choice. Besides being safe, they also look great. They’re color-matched to blend in beautifully with your other teeth. Another great thing about them is that they bond to your tooth structure, and this helps make your tooth stronger.
What Happens During an Appointment for Mercury Filling Removal?
The team makes sure you are protected every step of the way.
- You’ll get protective garments to wear and a breathing mask.
- Dr. Janbakhsh isolates your tooth using a dental dam or special suction, depending on the tooth’s position and structure.
- High-volume suction is used for your tooth.
- Special air filters keep the air in the room clean.
- The filling gets removed in large chunks.
- Dr. Janbakhsh thoroughly rinses your mouth.Â
How Can I Find a Mercury-Free Dentist in Gaithersburg, Maryland?
Dr. Janbakhsh is an excellent choice for safe mercury filling removal if you’re in the Gaithersburg area. She’s deeply committed to holistic dentistry and has years of experience using the SMART protocol. Contact the team at Modern Smile Dental at (301) 850-0376 to schedule your appointment.Â
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Modern Smile Dental
Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh D.D.S. M.S CONNECTED ON
Dr. Michelle Janbakhsh is a board-certified holistic dentist with a background in microbiology and molecular biology. Before earning her dental degree from Howard University, she worked as a research scientist at the NIH and biotech firms. She completed an Advanced General Dentistry residency at the University of Maryland, and advanced training at LVI, IAOMT, and the United States Dental Institute. Specializing in orthodontics, cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry, and Invisalign, she integrates biocompatible materials and holistic principles into patient care as a Lyme Literate Dentist and board-certified naturopath.
Dr. Jan’s dedication has earned her the American Top Dentist Award annually since 2008. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), the Holistic Dental Association, and the International Lyme & Associated Diseases Society (ILADS).
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