Discover the Benefits of the SMART Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique at The Dental Boutique Scottsdale
- Darren Anderson
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
If you have old silver fillings—also known as dental amalgam—you may be wondering about the safest way to have them removed. At The Dental Boutique in Scottsdale, Arizona, we follow the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocol to protect both your health and the environment during the process.
This advanced, science-based approach is designed to significantly reduce mercury exposure, giving patients peace of mind while upgrading their dental restorations.
What Is the SMART Protocol?
The SMART protocol is a set of strict safety guidelines developed to ensure the safe removal of mercury-containing amalgam fillings.
Dental amalgam is made up of a mixture of metals, including approximately 50% mercury. When these fillings are drilled out without proper precautions, mercury vapor and particles can be released and inhaled or absorbed.
SMART was created to prevent this exposure using a combination of specialized equipment, protective barriers, and clinical techniques.
Why Consider Removing Amalgam Fillings?
Patients choose to remove amalgam fillings for several reasons:
Health concerns about mercury exposure
Cracked or failing fillings that need replacement
Cosmetic improvements with tooth-colored materials
A desire for biocompatible, BPA-free restorations
At The Dental Boutique, we focus on preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible while replacing old fillings with modern, biomimetic materials.
How SMART Protects You
The SMART protocol involves multiple layers of protection before, during, and after the removal process. Here’s how we keep you safe:
Protective Barriers
We use a rubber dam to isolate the tooth and prevent ingestion of mercury particles.
Clean Air Systems
Advanced air filtration and high-volume suction remove airborne particles and vapor from the treatment area
Charcoal and Chlorella Ingestion
Charcoal Helps bind any mercury particles that may be swallowed despite protective barriers. May reduce systemic absorption through the GI tract. Chlorella is a type of freshwater algae and offers natural chelator support. May help bind heavy metals like mercury in the gut and support the body’s natural detox pathways
Oxygen Support
Patients are provided with an alternative oxygen source to minimize inhalation of mercury vapor.
Sectioning Technique
Rather than grinding fillings out, we remove them in larger sections to reduce mercury release.
Protective Gear
Both patients and dental staff wear protective coverings to prevent exposure.
Environmental Safety
We utilize mercury separators to ensure proper disposal and environmental responsibility.
Our Approach at The Dental Boutique
At The Dental Boutique in Scottsdale, we go beyond the basics of SMART protocol by combining it with our biomimetic dentistry philosophy. No other dental office in Arizona offers this combined philosophy!
This means we don’t just remove old fillings—we restore your teeth in a way that mimics natural structure and function.
After safe removal, we replace amalgam fillings with:
BPA-free composite materials
Minimally invasive onlays or overlays
Restorations designed to preserve tooth strength and longevity
Our goal is to support your overall health while delivering long-lasting, aesthetic results.
Is Amalgam Removal Right for You?
Not every amalgam filling needs to be removed immediately. If your fillings are intact and not causing issues, removal may not be urgent.
However, you may be a candidate for SMART removal if you:
Have damaged or leaking fillings
Are experiencing sensitivity or cracks
Prefer metal-free, biocompatible dentistry
Want to proactively reduce mercury exposure
We always recommend a personalized consultation to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
Why Choose The Dental Boutique in Scottsdale?
Patients choose our office because we offer:
SMART protocol–based mercury removal
Expertise in biomimetic dentistry
BPA-free, biocompatible materials
Biomimetic dentistry
A patient-centered, health-focused approach
Advanced technology for precision and safety
We are committed to providing dentistry that supports not just your smile—but your overall wellness.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering removing your silver fillings, choosing the right protocol matters.
At The Dental Boutique, we provide safe, precise, and health-conscious amalgam removal using the SMART protocol.
Contact our Scottsdale office today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward a healthier, more natural smile.
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