Mercury Removal – Weyauwega, WI
Safer Solutions for Healthier Smiles
Dr. William Twohig is a holistic dentist who goes to great lengths to ensure the health and safety of his patients, staff, and the environment. Never providing metal-based restorations to fill cavities, protect weakened structures, or replacing missing teeth, he opts for more biocompatible, environmentally-friendly solutions that do not leave behind a toxic or potentially dangerous footprint. Employing safe mercury removal in Weyauwega, he uses the appropriate equipment and takes the necessary precautions to ensure those in his dental office are safe from the vapors and small particles that can easily be emitted from traditional amalgam. Contact our office today to learn more about this process and what we’re doing to keep you safe should you choose to remove your silver filling.
Why It’s Important to Remove Traditional Metal Fillings
You may not realize it, but the traditional silver filling inside your mouth can be dangerous to your overall health. Although used as the only method to fill cavities for decades, researchers have discovered the toxicity of these metal fillings can negatively impact the brain, nervous system, kidneys, and even a pregnant woman’s unborn child. The metal used in traditional fillings can emit just enough of an invisible vapor to pose a problem. This happens because, over time, the amalgam used in the filling contains 50% mercury, which is a neurotoxin that is absorbed into the body and within the organs.
What is SMART?
SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. By choosing to find a holistic dentist in Weyauwega who employs this method to remove metal fillings, you can feel more comfortable and confident that your dentist believes in keeping you, their staff, and the environment safe. Yes, many dental professionals can remove and replace traditional amalgam fillings, but those who choose to use the SMART method are going a step further to minimize any potential for the inhalation of toxic vapor and particles that can harm the body and air.
How Does it Work?
If you see Dr. Twohig to have a traditional amalgam filling removed, you can expect him to follow the guidelines and protocols that come with using the SMART method. This includes:
- A dental dam made of non-latex materials that protects the rest of the oral cavity from any amalgam being removed
- A nasal mask or cannula to protect against the inhalation of mercury vapors or particles
- Face, head, neck, and full body barriers to protect skin and clothing from exposure
- An aerosol vacuum and high-speed evacuation device to minimize mercury vapor and particles throughout the removal process
- Some form of amalgam absorbent to keep it from entering into the air
- A high-volume filtration system will capture aerosols from the source
Additionally, Dr. Twohig and our staff will wear protective equipment such as non-latex gloves, gowns, face shields, hairnets, and respiratory grade masks to minimize exposure. You will also find that ceiling fans will run, and windows will be opened following the removal process.
Although it may be a more time-consuming process, it is necessary to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.