Plain-language definitions for every term you'll encounter when researching mercury filling removal and biological dentistry.
A dental restoration made from dental amalgam. The term most patients use for what dentists call an 'amalgam restoration.' Also commonly called a 'silver filling' despite containing approximately 50% mercury.
A device installed in dental office wastewater systems to capture mercury-containing debris before it enters the sewage system. Required by the EPA for dental offices in the United States.
The degree to which a dental material is compatible with the human body without causing harmful reactions. A key consideration in biological dentistry when selecting restorative materials.
An approach to dental care that considers the relationship between oral health and overall systemic health. Biological or holistic dentists often avoid amalgam, emphasize biocompatible materials, and may offer SMART removal protocols.
A tooth-colored filling material made of plastic polymer and fine glass particles. Bonds directly to the tooth structure and is the most common alternative to amalgam for dental restorations.
A metal alloy used as a tooth-filling material, composed of approximately 50% mercury combined with silver, tin, and copper. Has been used in dentistry for over 150 years. Sometimes called a 'silver filling.'
Mercury in its pure metallic liquid form. The type used in dental amalgam preparation. Distinct from methylmercury (the organic form found in fish) and inorganic mercury compounds.
A powerful suction system positioned directly at the tooth during amalgam removal to capture mercury vapor, particles, and debris before they can be inhaled or spread into the room. Not the same as a standard saliva ejector.
International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. A nonprofit organization of dental and medical professionals that promotes evidence-based approaches to the health impacts of dental materials, including dental amalgam. They developed and promote the SMART protocol.
Mercury in its gaseous (airborne) state. The primary form of mercury exposure from dental amalgam. Released during chewing, grinding, and temperature changes. Absorbed primarily through the lungs.
A dental practice that does not place new amalgam (mercury) fillings. Does not necessarily mean the practice uses SMART protocol for removing existing fillings.
A dental practice that uses protective protocols (like SMART) to minimize mercury exposure when removing existing amalgam fillings. A dentist can be mercury-free but not mercury-safe, and vice versa.
A thin sheet of rubber or latex placed in the mouth during dental procedures to isolate the treatment area. In SMART protocol, it acts as a physical barrier preventing mercury particles and vapor from entering the patient's airway.
Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. A set of protective procedures developed by the IAOMT to minimize mercury exposure during amalgam filling removal for patients, dental staff, and the environment.
In SMART protocol, cutting the amalgam filling into large sections and lifting them out whole rather than grinding the filling. This dramatically reduces the mercury vapor surface area created during removal.