Safe Mercury Filling Removal (SMART)

Still Have Silver (Mercury) Fillings?

Amalgam fillings, known as “silver” or metal fillings, contain 50% or more mercury. Mercury is known to release gases at higher than room temperatures. When these fillings are drilled or removed without proper precautions, mercury vapor and particles are released into the air and oral environment. This exposure can affect both the patient and the dental team, causing harmful effects to overall health.

At Upland Lighthouse Dentistry, Dr. Perez performs Mercury Filling Removal Treatment in Upland, CA using strict safety protocols designed to reduce exposure and protect your health.

SMART Certified Mercury Removal at Upland Lighthouse Dentistry

SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, a protocol developed to help dentists remove amalgam fillings in a safer, more controlled way. Dr. Perez is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) and is SMART certified, reflecting her commitment to biological and mercury-safe dentistry.

January 19, 2022

Please watch this video for more information:

SMART protocol is a strict, standardized process. Therefore, every amalgam fillings removal procedure at Upland Lighthouse Dentistry includes the following steps without any exception:

  • Protective isolation barriers
  • High-volume suction systems
  • Air filtration and ventilation
  • Protective equipment for both patient and dental team
  • Careful removal techniques to minimize mercury particles during mercury fillings removal
  • Oxygen mask for the patient during the procedure
  • Charcoal, chlorella, or similar adsorbent rinse before the procedure.
  • Full body and full head/face/neck impermeable barrier under and around the dental dam.
  • External air or oxygen via nasal mask or covered nasal cannula.
  • Properly sealed non-latex nitrile dental dam.
  • Saliva ejector is placed beneath the dental dam.
  • At-source oral aerosol vacuum positioned close to the mouth.
  • Continuous water cooling with high-speed suction to reduce heat and capture mercury.
  • Remove amalgam into large pieces using a small-diameter carbide drill.
  • Thorough water rinse followed by a charcoal, chlorella, or similar adsorbent rinse.
  • Protective gowns and coverings for all clinical staff.
  • Non-latex nitrile gloves.
  • Face shields and hair/head coverings.
  • Properly sealed mercury-rated respirator or positive-pressure air/oxygen mask.
  • Wear appropriate PPE when opening or maintaining suction traps.
  • Properly installed and maintained amalgam separator.
  • High-volume air filtration system or at-source oral aerosol vacuum.
  • Follow all regulations for handling, cleaning, and disposing of mercury-contaminated materials.

Looking for a Dentist Who Removes Mercury Safely?

If you have amalgam fillings and want them removed safely, you’re in the right place. Dr. Perez is SMART-certified and follows strict IAOMT protocols on every removal with no exceptions. Patients searching for a biological dentist near me or a holistic dentist near me often choose Upland Lighthouse Dentistry for its commitment to safe, evidence-based mercury removal.

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