Press Release: Dakota Dental Now Offers Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal

Apple Valley, MN—August 30, 2019—Dakota Dental now offers safe mercury amalgam removal for patients through the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Techniques (SMART) developed by the International Association of Oral Medicine & Technology (IAOMT). Dr. Karl Peterson, one of the clinic’s three leading dentists, is accredited with the IAOMT and certified in SMART to help patients avoid the risk of mercury exposure through safe amalgam removal.

Amalgam is a generic term that refers to the silver-mercury filling commonly used to fill cavities and restore teeth back to their proper shape and size. According to the FDA, amalgam fillings consist of 50% mercury and 50% of another metal, such as silver, tin, or copper. Studies support that if a patient has amalgam in his or her mouth, there is potential risk that small amount of mercury will release from the fillings and enter the person’s body each time the individual chews. After years of wear and tear on a patient’s filling, the risk becomes higher.

Amalgam fillings and their release of mercury into the body can lead to serious health issues, including mercury poisoning that carries with it devastating effects, such as tremors, insomnia, headaches, nerve damage, kidney problems, and respiratory failure.

The SMART amalgam removal, now offered by Dakota Dental, includes industry leading recommendations for removing existing mercury amalgam fillings in order to help reduce the possibility of mercury exposure to patients, dental professionals, dental students, office staff, and others. The technique also encourages environmentally conscious mercury disposal to ensure that when the potential material is removed, it is not released into the air where it can be harmful to others.

A SMART certified amalgam removal dentistry office, Dakota Dental offers a consultation to discuss with patients their concerns regarding their amalgam fillings. During the consultation, patients will learn more about the IAOMT’s SMART procedure and what they can expect before, during, and after its completion. To schedule an appointment, contact Dakota Dental today.