Biological dentistry favors SMART strategy for amalgam fillings
Dr. Craig Janssen focuses on safety when old fillings need removal
Times have changed since dentists mostly treated cavities with amalgam – those unattractive, dark-colored fillings comprised of mercury, silver and other metals. As a modern biological dentist, Dr. Craig Janssen uses a healthier composite resin for new fillings, and conducts a thorough assessment of older amalgam fillings before making any removal recommendations.
The primary decision point with regard to whether it is wise to remove amalgam fillings is determining if they are still doing their job. Amalgam fillings that are no longer intact are candidates for removal. Dr. Craig uses the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART) developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology.
Dr. Craig uses specialized equipment with state-of-the-art safety technology designed to prevent toxic mercury exposure during the removal procedure. This equipment protects both our patients and the Janssen Dental Clinic staff. SMART protocols dictate the use of masks, water irrigation, and high-volume suction to capture the amalgam particles.
Biological dentistry puts the spotlight on healthy options
Amalgam fillings were the prominent option in filling cavities for many years because of their ability to mold to teeth and securely remain in place. While they mostly accomplished that objective, dental professionals and patients gradually began to feel uncomfortable with the unhealthy amount of heavy metals in the amalgam mixture.
Dr. Craig was one of many dentists who transitioned away from amalgam in favor of composite resin fillings. In cases where it makes sense to use the SMART method to remove old amalgam fillings, he replaces them with composite resin due to their many benefits. In addition to being healthier for your body, they let us use X-rays to see inside the tooth much more effectively than is the case with amalgam fillings.
Dr. Craig shifted his philosophical focus over the past several years toward a more comprehensive, natural version of dental care. His advanced training culminated in a certification in Integrative Biologic Dental Medicine from the American College of Integrative Medicine in 2021, and he is now a Board Certified Naturopathic Physician.
Are you wondering if your old amalgam fillings are in need of replacement? Contact us to schedule your initial exam with Janssen Dental Clinic. We are always accepting new patients.
About Janssen Dental Clinic in Green Bay, Wisconsin
Janssen Dental Clinic features the dental expertise of Dr. Craig Janssen, a third-generation dentist serving patients in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and the surrounding area. Dr. Craig and his staff specialize in oral health as a component of overall well-being, a philosophy of care known as biological dentistry. They have expertise in reducing the fear and anxiety that people of all ages feel over going to the dentist, with services ranging from routine cleanings to restorative and cosmetic procedures. Call (920) 983-8383 to schedule an appointment. New patients are always welcome.