Austin's SMART-Certified Dentist for Mercury-Safe Amalgam Removal & Whole-Body Care
Dentistry isn’t just about your teeth - it’s about your overall health and well-being.
Your dental health impacts your whole-body health. At Merrily Sandford, DDS & Associates, we provide biological and holistic dentistry that protects not only your teeth – but your overall well-being. From mercury-free dentistry to Safe Amalgam Filling Removal, every treatment is designed with your health and safety in mind.
Austin's SMART-Certified Dentist for Mercury-Safe Amalgam Removal & Whole-Body Care
Dentistry isn’t just about your teeth - it’s about your overall health and well-being.
Your dental health impacts your whole-body health. At Merrily Sandford, DDS & Associates, we provide biological and holistic dentistry that protects not only your teeth – but your overall well-being. From mercury-free dentistry to Safe Amalgam Filling Removal, every treatment is designed with your health and safety in mind.
Mercury-Free & BPA-Free Materials
Accepts All PPO Insurance · CareCredit & Payment Plans Available
145+ 5-Star Reviews On Google
Same-Day Appointments Available
Mercury-Safe Care Is Dr. Merrily Sandford's Life Mission
Dr. Merrily Sandford didn’t arrive at biological dentistry through a textbook. She arrived through a mother’s worst fear – watching her own child suffer from mercury poisoning. That experience changed everything about how she practices dentistry.
Today, Dr. Sandford is one of Central Texas’s most recognized voices in biological and holistic dental care – featured on NBC, CBS, Austin Woman Magazine, and Let’s Get Healthy Radio, and trusted by patients who travel from across Texas specifically for her approach. She combines advanced cosmetic dentistry with a deep commitment to treatments that are safe, mercury-free, and designed around your long-term health – not just what’s convenient.
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When you sit in her chair, you’re not just getting a dentist. You’re getting someone who genuinely understands why this matters.
Real Patients. Real Results. Real Peace of Mind.
Our dentist, Dr. Merrily Sandford, and our team have helped many patients improve their overall health through high-quality dentistry. Read some of the experiences of our satisfied patients below!
What Makes Us Different
Why Not Just Go to Your Regular Dentist?
Holistic dentistry isn't a trend here - it's the only way we practice.
- Mercury-safe removal – We follow the SMART protocol, the gold standard for safe amalgam removal developed by the IAOMT(International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology). Your regular dentist likely doesn’t.
- Biocompatible materials – Every restoration uses materials your body can actually work with, not just whatever’s cheapest or most convenient.
- Root cause focus – We treat what’s causing the problem, not just what’s visible on an X-ray.
- Whole-body awareness – Your oral health affects your heart, immune system, and energy levels. We practice with that in mind at every appointment.
- No shortcuts – When it comes to mercury exposure, cutting corners isn’t something we’re willing to do.
Biological Dentistry Approach
We use safe, mercury-free and BPA-free materials for a healthier smile and body.
A Comfortable Environment
Our calming space and compassionate team make visits feel more like self-care than a chore.
Convenient Scheduling
We offer same-day appointments and flexible options that work for your life.
Trusted by the Austin Community
With over 100 5-star Google reviews, our patients say it best.
How It Works
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
We believe great dental care should be simple and stress-free. That’s why we’ve made it easy to schedule your visit and get the care you need without the hassle. Whether it’s your first appointment or your first one in years, we’ll make the process smooth from start to finish.
01.
Book Your Appointment
Request online or call in under two minutes. No lengthy forms, no pressure - just pick a time that works for you.
02.
Personalized Consultation
Dr. Sandford and her team take the time to actually listen. You'll leave with a clear, customized treatment plan built around your health - not a one-size-fits-all approach.
03.
Holistic Treatment & Care
Experience dentistry that protects your smile and your long-term health. Every step of your treatment is designed with your whole body in mind - no shortcuts, no compromises.
Our Services
Services We Offer
Safe Amalgam Filling Removal (SMART Certified)
SMART-certified removal protects you from mercury exposure while safely eliminating old silver fillings.
Mercury-Free Dentistry
Biocompatible, mercury-free materials make every restoration safer, healthier, and better for your whole body
Family Dentistry
Complete dental care supports healthy smiles for children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Customized cosmetic treatments enhance the look of teeth for a brighter, more confident smile.
Preventative Dentistry (Cleanings & Exams)
Routine cleanings and exams keep teeth strong, healthy, and free from future problems.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Natural-looking, mercury-free fillings restore your tooth and blend seamlessly with your smile.
From routine checkups to advanced tooth replacements, we offer everything you need to keep your smile healthy and beautiful—all in one comfortable, welcoming office. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or exploring options for missing teeth, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Dental Checkups & Cleanings
Be proactive with your dental health. Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent bigger issues down the road.
Tooth Fillings
We fix cavities using natural-looking, BPA-free fillings that blend right in with your smile.
Dental Implants
Missing a tooth? Implants are a permanent, long-lasting solution that look and feel just like the real thing.
Dental Bridges
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a bridge can fill the gap and restore your ability to chew and smile confidently.
Custom Tooth Restorations
We offer inlays and onlays—custom pieces used to repair teeth when a filling just isn’t enough and a crown isn’t necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some dentists still use amalgam fillings?
Amalgam is inexpensive, durable, and easy to work with – which is why it’s been used for over 150 years. Many dentists continue using it simply because it’s familiar and cost-effective. At this practice, we don’t believe those conveniences are worth the health tradeoff. There are safer, equally durable alternatives available, and that’s all we use.
How long does amalgam removal take - and is it painful?
Most amalgam removal appointments take between 60 and 90 minutes depending on the number of fillings. With proper anesthesia and the SMART protocol in place, the process is no more uncomfortable than a standard dental procedure – most patients are surprised by how straightforward it is.
How do I know if my fillings contain mercury?
If your fillings are silver or dark-colored, they almost certainly contain mercury – amalgam fillings are roughly 50% mercury by weight. If you’re unsure, Dr. Sandford can assess your existing restorations during your consultation and walk you through your options.
What materials do you use instead of mercury fillings?
We use biocompatible materials like composite resin and porcelain – safe, durable, and natural-looking alternatives that restore your tooth without introducing harmful substances into your body.
Why is mercury-free dentistry important?
Mercury is a toxic substance that accumulates in the body over time. By using mercury-free materials and following strict removal protocols, we eliminate unnecessary exposure and help protect your long-term health – not just your teeth.
What is Safe Amalgam Filling Removal (SMART)?
Safe Amalgam Removal uses strict safety protocols to minimize mercury exposure during the removal of old silver fillings. This includes specialized equipment, protective barriers, and air filtration systems to keep you safe.
Will my insurance cover this?
We accept all PPO insurance plans, which typically cover a portion of restorative treatments. We also offer CareCredit and in-house payment plans for anything not covered. Our team will walk you through your options before any treatment begins.
Take the Safer Approach to Dentistry
Patients across Texas have already made the change. Book your consultation with Dr. Sandford today and take the first step toward dentistry that actually puts your health first.
Accepts All PPO Insurance · CareCredit & Payment Plans Available · Same-Day Appointments
Address
2303 Ranch Rd 620 S #140, Austin, TX 78734
Opening Hours
Mon - Thu: 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Friday: Closed