If you're exploring safe mercury removal, you're already taking a powerful step toward protecting your long-term health. At Dr. Katie To Center for Wellness Dentistry, we understand that the decision to remove amalgam fillings safely isn't just about cost—it's about trust, safety, and the quality of care you receive.
Still, one of the most common questions we hear is: "How much does safe mercury removal cost?" This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the investment in SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) or Protect Protocol procedures—from pricing to value, and why not all mercury removal is created equal.
What Is Safe Mercury Removal?
Safe mercury removal, also known as SMART (developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, or IAOMT) or the Protect Protocol (by the IABDM), is a highly specialized dental technique designed to remove mercury-containing amalgam fillings without releasing toxic vapor into your body or the environment.
At our practice, we're certified in both protocols and follow an uncompromising standard of safety that includes:
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Advanced air filtration systems
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Oxygen masks for patients
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Protective barriers and gowns
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Specialized suction and vacuum equipment
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Activated charcoal rinses and detox support
How Much Does Safe Mercury Removal Cost?
Average Cost Per Tooth
At Dr. Katie To's office, the cost for SMART-certified mercury removal starts at $250 per tooth. This price covers the full protective protocol, including oxygen supply, rubber dam isolation, and meticulous clean-up procedures.
Additional Costs to Consider
While $250 per tooth is a good baseline, total costs can vary depending on:
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How many fillings you have
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Whether full coverage or additional restorations are needed
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Quadrant-based treatment plans
For patients with multiple amalgams, we often break treatment into phases, usually by quadrant. This makes the process more manageable both clinically and financially.
Range of Total Investment
In general, patients can expect to invest between $800 to $3,000 for full treatment depending on the complexity of the case.
Why Does Safe Mercury Removal Cost More?
We get it: $250 per tooth might seem like a lot compared to traditional amalgam removal. But here’s what you're really paying for:
1. Extreme Safety Measures
Removing mercury is a serious health procedure—for both patient and staff. Our team uses hazmat-level protection, advanced mercury suction, and complete operatory draping. It feels more like a mini-surgery than a standard filling removal.
2. High-Tech Equipment
We use specialized equipment like high-volume evacuators, air purifiers, and mercury separators—none of which are found in standard dental offices.
3. Certified Expertise
Not every dentist is SMART-certified AND Protect Protocol certified. Dr. Katie To and her team are leaders in mercury-safe dentistry in the world, and we take ongoing training seriously.
4. Specialized Waste Disposal
Mercury is considered hazardous waste. Disposal must follow federal and state regulations—adding time, cost, and responsibility.
5. Time and Precision
Safe mercury removal takes significantly more time than a traditional procedure. We carefully isolate the tooth, place multiple barriers, and follow a precise sequence of safe mercury removal protocol to ensure every step minimizes mercury exposure. This level of attention requires a slower, more deliberate approach that prioritizes your safety.
How to Lower Your Cost Without Cutting Corners
We believe every patient deserves access to safe dentistry. Here are a few ways we help make mercury removal more affordable:
Bundled Treatments
Ask us about quadrant pricing or full-mouth packages. Combining services helps reduce costs per visit.
Health Savings Accounts (HSA/FSA)
Mercury removal may be eligible under certain HSA or FSA plans. Check with your provider.
Timing and Phasing
We can work with you to plan a staged treatment plan that prioritizes your health and your budget.
Transparent Estimates
Before any treatment, you'll receive a personalized treatment plan with clear pricing—no surprises.
What to Watch Out For: Cheap Mercury Removal
If you've been quoted a much lower price elsewhere, proceed with caution.
Traditional amalgam removal often:
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Skips oxygen and suction protocols
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Doesn't isolate the tooth properly
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Fails to use air filtration
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Leaves mercury particles behind
Remember: you're investing in your health, not just a dental procedure.
Who Benefits Most From Safe Mercury Removal?
This treatment is especially valuable for patients who:
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Have autoimmune or neurological conditions
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Experience chronic fatigue or brain fog
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Are planning pregnancy
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Prefer a holistic or functional medicine approach
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Value prevention and wellness
Even if you're asymptomatic, removing mercury fillings the safe way protects your future health.
Is It Worth It?
Many of our patients tell us the same thing: "I didn’t realize how much was involved until I went through it. Now I get it."
We document the process with before-and-after photos and x-rays. You’ll see exactly what came out of your mouth and how much cleaner your smile (and system) is afterward.
You also get post-op care, detox support, and a team that treats you like family. It's more than a dental appointment—it's a wellness experience.
Final Thoughts: Why Now Is the Time to Act
If you have mercury fillings in your mouth, your body is exposed to vapor every single day. Whether you're already struggling with symptoms or simply want peace of mind, the sooner you remove these toxins safely, the better.
Dr. Katie To Center for Wellness Dentistry is a nationally recognized leader in SMART-certified amalgam removal and Protect Protocol. Our patients come to us from all over because they want it done right.
Don't wait for symptoms to show up. Be proactive.
Schedule your Safe Mercury Removal consultation today and take the first step toward a cleaner, healthier you.
Call our office at (281) 392-8450.