Colorado Springs
Mercury-Safe Dentistry
SMART-certified removal. Biocompatible replacements. No compromise.
Overview
Amalgam fillings — the silver-colored restorations that have been used in dentistry for over 150 years — are approximately 50% mercury by weight. While the debate over their safety at rest continues, the process of removing them generates mercury vapor that, without proper precautions, poses real risks to the patient, the dental team, and the environment. We take those risks seriously.
What SMART certification means
Dr. Sommer holds SMART certification from the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) — the gold standard for safe amalgam removal. SMART stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique, and it requires specific equipment and protocols at every step: high-volume evacuation, sectioning the filling into large chunks rather than grinding, rubber dam isolation, clean air supply for the patient, and proper disposal of all mercury waste. Every removal we perform follows these protocols without exception.
The Holistic Perspective
Biocompatible replacements
Once removed, we replace amalgam with materials chosen for body compatibility: BPA-free composite resins, ceramic inlays, or porcelain restorations. For patients who want to know exactly how their immune system responds to specific dental materials, we use BioComp Labs — a sophisticated blood serum test that identifies whether a material is highly reactive, moderately reactive, or least reactive for that individual. Your body's response to what we put in it matters to us.
Who This Is For
- Patients with existing amalgam fillings who want them safely removed
- Anyone with concerns about mercury exposure from dental restorations
- Patients pursuing a broader detoxification or holistic health protocol
- Those replacing old, failing silver fillings with modern alternatives
Before You Schedule
We do not pressure patients to remove serviceable amalgam fillings. But when replacement is indicated — or when a patient chooses to proceed — we do it the right way, every time.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions about mercury-safe dentistry in Colorado Springs
Is it safe to remove mercury amalgam fillings?
Yes, when performed with the IAOMT SMART protocol. We use rubber dam isolation, high-volume evacuation, sectioning the filling into large chunks rather than grinding, and filtered air supply for the patient — all designed to minimize mercury vapor exposure.
Should I have my amalgam fillings removed if they're serviceable?
We don't pressure patients to remove functioning fillings. However, if a filling is aging, cracked, or failing — or if you're pursuing a holistic health protocol — SMART removal is a beneficial and responsible choice. We'll give you our honest assessment.
What replaces the amalgam after removal?
We replace amalgam with BPA-free composite resins, ceramic inlays, or porcelain restorations — materials that bond to the tooth, look completely natural, and contain no mercury or heavy metals.
How long does amalgam removal take?
A single filling typically takes 30–60 minutes. We often recommend removal in sections (one quadrant per appointment) rather than everything at once, to minimize total exposure and allow for proper recovery.
Does insurance cover mercury amalgam removal in Colorado Springs?
Insurance typically covers replacement of failing fillings regardless of material. Elective removal of serviceable amalgam may not be covered. We'll review your specific benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.
Ready to Get Started?
Your first visit begins with a conversation.
No pressure. No procedure lists. Just an honest conversation about your health and what matters to you.