Most people don’t realize that so called “silver” fillings contain 50% of mercury (a known neurotoxin). At room temperature it vaporizes easily and remains odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Inhaled mercury vapor is easily absorbed into bloodstream, where it has significant adverse effects on the immune, cardiac, digestive, urinary, and respiratory systems. Recent research identified correlation between mercury exposure and brain cell deterioration in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. There is no harmless amount of exposure to mercury due to its cumulative effect. Mercury vapor is continuously emitted from dental fillings and accumulates in the body over time. The effects of exposure can manifest years or even decades later. Mercury in the tissues of an infant correlates directly with the number of dental fillings in the mother. Absorption of mercury during pregnancy puts newborns at risk for learning disabilities.
The traditional process of drilling out amalgam fillings releases even higher quantities of mercury vapor and fine particles to be absorbed by the body. SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) is a set of safety measures to minimize mercury exposure during dental amalgam filling removal. These safety measures were developed as a result of scientific research collected by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. To obtain SMART certification, dentist must complete rigorous educational coursework and training by IAOMT, and enroll annually in the updated safety review program.
SMART measures for patient protection include:
In addition, special SMART safety protocols are implemented for dentist and dental staff protection, as well as, office and environmental protection.