Synopsis:
Mercury amalgam removal protects both oral and overall health when performed with certified safety protocols. Origin Dental Wellness in Tulsa uses SMART-certified, biological techniques to minimize exposure and restore health naturally.
Key Takeaways:
- Silver fillings contain 45–55% mercury.
- Unsafe removal can spike mercury levels by 32%.
- SMART protocol maintains safe vapor control.
- Ozone and PRP enhance healing.
- Nutrition supports post-removal detoxification.
- Certified biological dentistry promotes long-term wellness.
Do you have “silver fillings” that have been in your mouth for years? You might wonder if they’re truly safe. Growing awareness about mercury exposure has prompted many health-conscious people to seek safer options.
Origin Dental Wellness in Tulsa, OK, is a biological dental practice that understands your concerns. We explain what you need to know before mercury amalgam removal and why proper protocols matter.
Understanding Why Silver Filling Removal Matters
The term “silver fillings” misleads many patients. These dental restorations contain 45-55% elemental mercury by weight, with the remaining materials being silver, tin, copper, and sometimes zinc.
Studies show individuals with dental amalgam fillings have higher urine mercury levels compared to those without fillings. Mercury vapors are continuously emitted from these fillings and absorbed by your body, particularly in the brain, kidneys, liver, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. The levels released from amalgam fillings are generally low and remain well below established safety limits for the general population.
The Science Behind Mercury Exposure
| Mercury Exposure Source | Impact Level | Research Finding |
| Daily Activities (chewing, brushing) | Ongoing, low-level | Mercury vapor continuously released |
| Hot Beverages & Foods | Increased release | Heat intensifies vapor emission |
| Teeth Grinding | Significantly higher | Intensifies mercury output |
| Improper Removal | Acute spike | Can increase blood mercury 32% in 48 hours |
Sources: Environmental Health 2014, Journal of Occupational Medicine 2019, FDA White Paper 2021, and recent peer-reviewed studies.
Dr. Shannon Toler takes a biological approach to dentistry. As a board-certified holistic nutritionist (BCHN) and IAOMT-accredited biological dentist, she recognizes the connection between oral health and whole-body wellness. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) sets the highest standards for mercury-safe dentistry. We are an accredited IAOMT member and SMART certified, following rigorous protocols to minimize mercury exposure during removal.
What Are Mercury Amalgam Fillings?
Composition of Traditional Silver Fillings
Dental amalgam has existed for over 150 years. Dentists valued it for its durability and low cost. When mixed, mercury binds silver, copper, tin, and zinc into a putty-like substance that hardens inside tooth cavities.
Why They’re No Longer Recommended
Origin Dental Wellness doesn’t place dental restorations containing mercury. We believe mercury has the potential to negatively impact overall health. Mercury is a serious neurotoxin with effects on the immune system, kidney function, gut health, fertility, depression, and mood alteration.
Modern biological dentistry emphasizes biocompatible materials that work in harmony with your body’s natural systems. Dr. Toler’s training in biological dentistry and holistic nutrition built her understanding of how dental materials affect your immune system, gut health, and overall vitality.
Health and Environmental Risks Linked to Amalgam Fillings
Mercury Exposure and the Human Body
Mercury is recognized as a chemical of major concern posing a dangerous threat to public health. When absorbed, mercury accumulates in brain tissue, kidneys, liver, lungs, and the gastrointestinal tract.
Individual responses vary based on genetic predisposition, overall health, number and age of fillings, and environmental exposures. Some people experience fatigue, headaches, or cognitive difficulties, while others might not notice symptoms for years.
The Environmental Impact
The EPA mandated that all dental offices install amalgam separators to capture mercury-containing waste before it enters waterways. We employ an amalgam separator that is properly installed, utilized, and maintained to collect mercury amalgam waste. This prevents mercury from being released into the effluent from our dental office and entering public water systems.
Why Safe Removal Is More Important Than Just “Mercury-Free”
Mercury-Free vs. Mercury-Safe Dentistry
Many practices advertise as “mercury-free,” meaning they no longer place new amalgam fillings. However, this doesn’t mean they’re mercury-safe. The critical distinction lies in how existing fillings are removed.
Mercury-Free Dentists:
- No longer place amalgam fillings
- Use available alternatives like composite resin
- May not follow specialized removal protocols
Mercury-Safe Dentists:
- Apply special techniques to remove existing amalgam fillings safely
- Follow SMART-certified protocols
- Use specialized equipment and protective measures
Our practice is both mercury-free and mercury-safe. Dentists who don’t use silver amalgam material may be considered mercury-free, but NOT mercury safe.
The Risk of Improper Amalgam Removal
Mercury vapor increases when removing amalgam with a dental handpiece. Drilling with conventional equipment generates dangerous particulate matter that volatilizes mercury vapor, often exceeding safety thresholds for over an hour.
Research shows blood and plasma mercury increased within 48 hours after improper removal, with peak concentrations exceeding pre-removal levels by 32%. The removal process itself temporarily creates higher exposure than leaving intact fillings alone. This is why choosing a SMART-certified biological dentist matters.
Inside the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) Protocol
What SMART Certification Means
The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) developed the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique based on rigorous scientific research. The IAOMT is a trusted academy providing scientific resources to support integrity and safety in healthcare.
Dr. Shannon Toler completed comprehensive SMART certification training, demonstrating her commitment to the highest standard of mercury-safe dentistry in Tulsa.
Step-by-Step Overview of the SMART Protocol
Pre-Treatment Preparation
Charcoal Slurry: Patients swish with charcoal slurry before amalgam safe removal, acting as a binding agent for mercury that might enter the digestive system.
Protective Equipment: Protective gowns and headwear cover both the patient and the dental team. Staff wear face shields and non-latex nitrile gloves.
During Removal
Pure Oxygen Delivery: We place patients on pure oxygen via nasal mask throughout the procedure, ensuring the quality of air breathed is not compromised.
Isolation Barriers: A non-latex nitrile dental dam is placed and sealed, creating a physical barrier between the treatment tooth and the rest of your mouth. A saliva ejector is placed under the dental dam to reduce mercury exposure.
Specialized Air Filtration – “Wally”: Wally is our specialized air filter created specifically for filtering mercury vapor during removal. This at-source oral aerosol vacuum positions close to your mouth, keeping the air free from mercury vapors.
High-Volume Suction: Copious amounts of water with high-speed evacuation capture mercury discharge during the procedure.
Cut and Chunk Method: Mercury amalgam fillings are removed using the “cut and chunk” method with a small-diameter carbide drill. This releases minimal vapor as the amalgam is sectioned and removed in large pieces.
How We Exceed Standards
Ozonated Water Technology: We use 100% ozonated water in our ultrasonic scalers throughout procedures for optimal bacterial reduction and enhanced safety.
Biocompatible Materials: After removal of mercury, we restore teeth exclusively with BPA-free, tooth-colored composite materials that are carefully selected and tested for biocompatibility.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Mercury Amalgam Removal
Before Your Appointment
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Dr. Toler reviews your complete health history and dental needs. We use our 3D CBCT scanner for thorough assessment, evaluating teeth for decay, fractures, and existing failing restorations.
If mercury amalgam fillings are present, we discuss the SMART protocol for safe removal of dental amalgam. We also review restorative options based on the remaining tooth structure condition. This is a collaborative appointment where trust develops between you and Dr. Toler. You determine your own treatment plan, guided by Dr. Toler, who provides options with associated risks and benefits.
Dr. Toler’s background as a board-certified holistic nutritionist enables her to provide nutritional guidance. Nutritional status impacts healing ability, and biological detoxification depends heavily on nutritional support.
During the Removal Procedure
Our team explains each step before beginning. The SMART protocol requires careful setup.
What You’ll Experience:
- Charcoal slurry rinse
- Protective coverings for you and our team
- Pure oxygen through a nasal mask
- Non-latex dental dam positioned
- Wally air filtration system is running
- High-volume suction with water irrigation
- Cut and chunk removal method
- Thorough flushing after removal
After Treatment
Once the amalgam is completely removed, we restore your tooth. Because every tooth is different, several options exist. Often, teeth with mercury fillings have fractures, decay, or gaps around the fillings. All these factors are considered when selecting the best restorative material.
Alternatives include composite resin, glass ionomer, porcelain, and gold. The best choice depends on the tooth condition once the silver mercury filling material is removed.
Important: There is never an additional charge to remove mercury amalgam fillings. Your only investment is in the new restoration.
We primarily use BPA-free composite resin restorations that are mercury-free, metal-free, and tooth-colored for a natural appearance.
Enhanced Healing Support
Ozone Therapy: Supports natural antimicrobial action and promotes healing.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP/PRF): Applications of your body’s own healing factors enhance tissue healing and reduce inflammation after the procedure.
Mild sensitivity initially is a normal healing response as your tooth adjusts to the new restoration. This typically resolves within days to weeks.
Nutrition and Detox Support After Mercury Removal
Why Nutrition Matters
Your nutritional status directly impacts your body’s ability to heal and detoxify. This is where Dr. Toler’s dual expertise in biological dentistry and holistic nutrition creates unique value.
Nutritional status impacts all aspects of a patient’s ability to heal. Biological detoxification depends heavily on nutritional support, as does any wound healing. While the IAOMT does not advocate that dentists become nutritional therapists themselves, an appreciation of the impact of nutrition on all phases of dentistry is essential to biological dentistry.
It is helpful for dentists to be familiar with the methods and challenges of reducing systemic toxicity deriving from mercury exposure. This is all part of our holistic dentistry philosophy, intended to keep you as healthy as can be.
Supporting Natural Detoxification
We provide nutritional guidance based on Dr. Toler’s training as a board-certified holistic nutritionist. We encourage patients to work with their healthcare providers for additional support when preparing for and recovering from amalgam safe removal.
General Wellness Recommendations:
- Drink plenty of clean, filtered water to support kidney function
- Consume antioxidant-rich foods daily
- Include sulfur-rich foods that support natural detox pathways
- Maintain adequate fiber intake for regular elimination
- Consider supplementation only under healthcare provider guidance
Important Understanding: Amalgam removal eliminates the source of ongoing exposure. However, it doesn’t remove mercury that has accumulated in tissues over the years. Supporting your body’s natural detoxification processes is an important part of the healing journey.
We view this as a wellness partnership. Our role is to safely remove the mercury source using SMART-certified protocols. You work with your healthcare team to support your body’s ongoing recovery.
Why Choose a Biological Dentist for Mercury Removal in Tulsa
The Biological Approach
Biological dentistry recognizes that everything in your mouth affects your entire body. At Origin Dental Wellness, we understand the body cannot be healthy if the mouth isn’t healthy. The mouth is the origin of overall health. We provide exceptional dental restorative care utilizing concepts from oral medicine, including wellness and nutrition counseling.
What Sets Us Apart:
- Non-toxic, fluoride-free materials
- Ozone therapy integration
- PRP/PRF applications
- Collaborative patient model where you determine your treatment plan
Experience and Trust
Dr. Shannon Toler’s Credentials:
- DDS – University of Missouri-Kansas City (1998)
- AIAOMT – Accredited IAOMT member
- SMART-Certified – Safe mercury removal protocols
- FAAOSH – Fellow, American Academy of Oral Systemic Health
- BCHN – Board Certified Holistic Nutritionist
- FMRII – Fellow, Misch Resnik Implant Institute
She is one of the very few holistic dentists in Oklahoma with this combination of training in biological dentistry, holistic nutrition, and advanced restorative techniques. She has practiced since 1999, with Origin Dental Wellness established in 2018. Our team has been together for an average of nearly 15 years, creating a family atmosphere with consistent, compassionate care. When you need a mercury removal dentist in Tulsa, you can rely on us.
Common Questions About Safe Amalgam Removal
Is Mercury Amalgam Removal Safe?
Yes, when performed under SMART-certified conditions. These protocols substantially reduce vapor exposure through multiple protective layers. The IAOMT created these evidence-based guidelines after reviewing extensive scientific research.
Without proper safety measures, the removal process creates higher mercury exposure than leaving fillings intact. Choosing a mercury-safe dentist protects your health during treatment.
How Much Does Mercury Removal Cost?
We don’t charge separately for the amalgam removal procedure. You pay only for the replacement restoration, which varies based on the material that best suits your tooth’s condition.
Will I Need New Fillings After Removal?
Yes. Removal of dental amalgam leaves a cavity requiring filling with biocompatible material. Options include composite resin, glass ionomer, porcelain, and gold. Dr. Toler discusses which choice works best for your situation.
Can Mercury Affect My Health?
Mercury is a neurotoxin that concentrates in brain tissue, kidneys, liver, and other vital organs. It impacts immune function, kidney performance, digestive health, reproductive capacity, and mental wellness. Many patients describe improved well-being after eliminating mercury fillings.
Should Pregnant or Nursing Women Have Amalgams Removed?
No. The IAOMT takes a firm position against removal during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to temporary mercury exposure elevation. Wait until after pregnancy and nursing, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and preventative care during this time.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Timeline depends on filling number, size, location, health status, and preparation needs. Some patients complete treatment in 2-3 visits within 30 days. Others need more nutritional preparation time. Dr. Toler creates your personalized timeline during the consultation.
Restoring Wellness from the Inside Out
Your decision to research mercury-safe dental care demonstrates a commitment to long-term wellness. Many Tulsa-area patients choose us because biological dentistry aligns with their values around natural health, nutrition, and prevention. Mercury amalgam removal is about embracing complete wellness that recognizes the connection between oral health and overall vitality.
We consider it a privilege to guide patients toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. We serve health-oriented people who demand the highest quality of care delivered through collaboration, respect, and compassion. Our biological approach considers your whole person: nutrition status, immune function, health history, wellness goals, and the impact your mouth has on overall health.
If you’re ready to explore mercury-safe dentistry with a SMART-certified biological dentist in Tulsa, we’re here to support you. To learn more about amalgam safe removal and schedule your consultation, visit our Contact Page. A mercury-free, health-centered smile begins with your visit to Origin Dental Wellness.
