Protecting You, Our Team, and Our Planet from Toxic Exposure

MiBöca Dentistry in Omaha follows the highest mercury safety standards using IAOMT SMART protocols. Learn how we protect your health, our staff, and the environment during amalgam removal.

Why Mercury Safety Matters

Mercury vapor is released every time an old “silver” filling (technically called a dental amalgam) is drilled, polished, or even chewed upon. This vapor can be absorbed through the lungs, tissues, and bloodstream.

In 2017, I personally experienced acute mercury exposure after removing multiple amalgam fillings without adequate protection. It was a turning point in my career and the birth of MiBöca Dentistry’s biological approach.

Today, I’m committed to ensuring that what happened to me never happens to another dentist, patient, or staff member.

“At MiBöca, mercury safety isn’t a trend—it’s a non-negotiable standard of care.”
— Dr. Trino Nuño

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The SMART Difference

We adhere to the IAOMT-certified SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) protocols — the global gold standard for mercury removal.
Here’s what that means for you:

Step	What We Do	Why It Matters
1. Patient Protection	You’ll wear a nasal mask delivering oxygen, plus a non-latex barrier and protective gown.	Prevents mercury vapor and particulate inhalation.
2. Rubber Dam Isolation	A specialized barrier isolates the tooth being treated.	Blocks mercury debris from entering your mouth.
3. High-Volume Suction + Air Filtration	We use extra-oral suction systems and HEPA filtration units that remove airborne mercury.	Keeps air clean for you, our team, and the room environment.
4. Water Cooling & Sectioning Technique	Fillings are sectioned and removed in large chunks under water spray.	Reduces heat and mercury vapor release.
5. Staff Protection	Our team wears certified mercury-rated respirators, gowns, and hair covers.	Protects everyone present during the procedure.
6. Safe Waste Disposal	Amalgam waste is collected and filtered through a certified amalgam separator before reaching Omaha’s water system.	Protects our community and environment.

Each step is performed with precision and mindfulness to safeguard all biological systems involved — yours, ours, and nature’s.

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Our Environmental Commitment

Mercury doesn’t just threaten human health — it contaminates waterways and wildlife when improperly disposed of.
That’s why MiBöca Dentistry proudly complies with EPA and Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality regulations by using certified amalgam separators that trap mercury particles before they enter the public sewer system.

We partner with licensed hazardous waste recyclers who handle all materials according to state and federal environmental standards.

“Mercury safety extends beyond our dental chairs—it’s part of our responsibility to Omaha and the planet.”
— Dr. Trino Nuño

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What to Expect During a SMART Removal Appointment

If you’re replacing old silver fillings, your visit will feel a little different — but every precaution is intentional:

• Pre-treatment support: We discuss detox pathways, hydration, and nutritional support before your appointment.
• Comfort & Calm: You’ll breathe filtered oxygen through your nose while the room filtration system quietly runs beside you.
• Gentle Removal: The amalgam is sectioned into large pieces under constant water irrigation to minimize aerosolization.
• Comprehensive Restoration: We restore the tooth using biocompatible, BPA-free materials that look natural and function seamlessly.

You’ll leave knowing that your restoration is not only functional and aesthetic — but safe for your body and the earth.

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FAQs: People Also Ask

1. What is the safest way to remove mercury fillings?
The SMART protocol, developed by the IAOMT, is the safest, most researched method. It minimizes exposure to mercury vapor for both patients and staff.

2. Can removing old fillings release mercury into my body?
Yes, if done incorrectly. That’s why we use oxygen masks, suction systems, and air purification to prevent inhalation or ingestion.

3. Are “silver” fillings really 50% mercury?
Yes. Amalgam fillings contain approximately 50% elemental mercury combined with silver, tin, and copper.

4. Why does MiBöca Dentistry focus on biological materials?
We choose biocompatible, non-metal restorations that work with your body’s chemistry — not against it.

5. What happens to mercury waste after removal?
We collect, contain, and recycle all waste safely through certified environmental disposal programs — keeping Omaha’s water clean.

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Our Promise: Health, Integrity, and Transparency

Mercury safety isn’t just a clinical checklist—it’s a reflection of our values:
Respect. Commitment. Compassion.

Every patient, every staff member, and every ounce of air we breathe deserves protection.
That’s the MiBöca Way.

“We don’t just remove mercury safely—we’re part of the solution for a cleaner, healthier future.”
— Dr. Trino Nuño