What Does Being SMART Certified Mean?

When it comes to choosing a dental practice, you want to know that the care you receive is not only top-notch but also safe and considerate of your overall health. That’s why All About Smiles is proud to be SMART certified—a certification that reflects our commitment to your well-being and our dedication to the highest standards in holistic dental care. But what exactly does SMART certification mean, and why should it matter to you?

What Is SMART Certification?

SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, a protocol developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This certification is designed to ensure that the removal of mercury amalgam fillings is done in a way that minimizes exposure to mercury for both patients and dental staff.

Mercury amalgam fillings, often called “silver fillings,” have been used in dentistry for over a century. While they are effective at filling cavities, they contain mercury, a heavy metal that can pose health risks if not handled properly. During the removal process, mercury vapor and particles can be released, which can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. That’s where SMART certification comes in.

The SMART Protocol: A Holistic Approach to Dental Care

At All About Smiles, our SMART certification means we follow a strict protocol that prioritizes your health and safety during the removal of mercury amalgam fillings. This protocol includes several protective measures:

1. Isolation: A rubber dam or other isolation technique is used to prevent mercury particles from entering the mouth, reducing the risk of ingestion.
2. Ventilation: A high-volume suction device is employed to capture mercury vapor and particles during the removal process, ensuring that neither you nor our dental team is exposed to harmful mercury levels.
3. Air Filtration: The treatment room is equipped with specialized air filtration systems that remove mercury vapor from the air, keeping the environment safe.
4. Protective Gear: Both the patient and the dental team wear protective gear, including masks and gowns, to further reduce the risk of mercury exposure.
5. Safe Disposal: The mercury amalgam is carefully collected and disposed of according to strict environmental guidelines, preventing contamination of our water systems.

Why SMART Certification Matters

Choosing a SMART-certified Wilmington dental practice like All About Smiles means you are choosing a team that is trained and committed to using the safest, most effective methods for mercury amalgam removal. This certification is not just about meeting a standard—it’s about exceeding it. We believe that your dental care should not only improve your smile but also protect your overall health.

A Commitment to Holistic Dental Care

Our SMART certification is just one aspect of our holistic approach to dentistry. We understand that your oral health is intricately connected to your overall well-being, and we take every measure to ensure that the treatments we provide support your long-term health. Whether you’re considering having your mercury fillings removed or are simply looking for a dental practice that prioritizes safety and expertise, All About Smiles in Wilmington is here to offer you the highest level of care.

By choosing a SMART-certified practice, you’re making a smart choice for your health. Let us help you smile with confidence, knowing that your well-being is in expert hands.

About The Author

Dr. Lewis Yu

Dr. Lewis Yu, who graduated with a dental degree, completed a two-year postgraduate oral surgery training in New York City and Pennsylvania. Board-certified in Naturopathic Medicine and Integrated Biological Dental Medicine, he practiced in Philadelphia and New Jersey before joining All About Smiles. Dr. Yu is affiliated with the Holistic Dental Association and Talkinternational.com.

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