Burr Ridge dentist follows SMART Technique for safe mercury removal

The “silver” fillings used for over a decade aren’t 100 percent silver but are a mix of metals, including tin, copper, and mercury. You will never find mercury-containing fillings at the biological practice of Janet S. Stopka DDS, PC. The office goes beyond what other practices offer for the long-term health of their patients with Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal in Burr Ridge — the SMART Technique.

Threats to your health through dental fillings

Amalgam fillings contain 50 percent mercury. Exposure to this toxic element can affect immune, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous system, and urinary tract health. Mercury can also cross the blood-brain barrier, passing through a mother’s placenta, and putting the unborn child at risk of birth defects.

You can also be exposed to mercury when filings are removed. Mercury is released at even higher levels as vapors during the process. A biological, healthy practice means the dentist avoids placing silver fillings and is equipped to remove these fillings safely.

The Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART)

An active member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology, Janet S. Stopka DDS, PC abides by the organization’s standards for safe mercury amalgam removal. To protect patients and dental staff, the practice has invested in the equipment and training to uphold IAOMT protocols. The dental team limits exposure to mercury vapors during the removal process by:

• Providing outside air sources
• Using a properly-installed, operated, and maintained amalgam separator to collect mercury waste
• Wearing appropriate gloves, coverings, gowns, and eye protection
• Using a high-volume filtration system to remove vapors and particles
• Thoroughly flushing and cleaning up after the procedure

Trust the health of your mouth and body to a dentist who is mercury safe, and mercury free. Call (630) 756-5844 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stopka at the Burr Ridge office.