SMART Safe Amalgam Removal

SMART Safe Amalgam Removal in Rochester, NY

What Is SMART Safe Amalgam Removal?

If you have older metal amalgam fillings and you're ready to have them replaced, how they come out matters just as much as why. At Contemporary Dentistry, amalgam fillings aren't just removed — they're removed following the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART), a science-based protocol developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) to limit mercury exposure for the patient, the dental team, and the environment.

SMART removal is a core part of our Holistic & Biologic Dentistry program, reflecting our commitment to treating dental care as part of your whole-body health rather than an isolated procedure.

Schedule Consultation

Call Us (585) 244-3337

Focused On

SMART Safe Amalgam Removal

Why Safe Amalgam Removal Matters

Amalgam fillings are roughly 50% mercury by weight. While a stable, intact filling releases only trace amounts of mercury vapor over time, the removal process itself can be a different story. Drilling out old amalgam generates heat and friction that can release a burst of mercury vapor and fine particles — particles that can be inhaled, swallowed, or released into the surrounding air and water if the procedure isn't carefully controlled.

Without the right safeguards in place, patients can trade a slow, low-level exposure for a short but much more concentrated one. Removing amalgam safely means containing that exposure at every step, including:

Limiting the release of mercury vapor during drilling
Capturing fine particles before they can be inhaled or ingested
Preventing mercury from entering the office's water and waste systems

Our SMART Amalgam Removal Protocol

Every SMART procedure at our practice follows the IAOMT's protocol from start to finish, combining isolation, filtration, protective equipment, and responsible waste handling.

Complete Isolation

A non-latex dental dam isolates the treatment area to keep mercury particles from reaching the rest of your mouth. Protective drapes cover your body and face, leaving only the tooth being treated exposed.

Advanced Air Filtration

Each treatment room is equipped with high-volume air filtration, and a dental air vacuum is positioned near your mouth throughout the procedure to capture mercury vapor as it's released. High-powered suction continuously clears air and particles from the treatment site.

Specialized Protective Equipment

Our clinical team wears mercury-rated respirators, face shields, gloves, and gowns for the duration of the procedure. Patients are offered a nasal mask supplying clean, filtered air or oxygen so they aren't breathing office air during removal.

Responsible Mercury Waste Disposal

All mercury-contaminated material is collected and disposed of through licensed hazardous waste channels, and an amalgam separator keeps mercury out of the water supply — aligning the procedure with both patient safety and environmental responsibility.

Is SMART Amalgam Removal Right for You?

SMART removal is worth discussing with our team if you:

Want your old metal fillings replaced with tooth-colored fillings
Are concerned about long-term or cumulative mercury exposure
Have a known sensitivity to metals or dental materials
Prefer a proactive, whole-health approach to routine dental care

Dr. Anna Belous and Dr. Adriana Palacio are both SMART-certified through the IAOMT, so you can feel confident that your amalgam removal is being handled by trained, experienced providers. For patients who feel anxious about dental procedures, our sedation dentistry options can also help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should perform my amalgam removal?

Amalgam removal should only be performed by a provider trained in a recognized safety protocol like SMART. Not every dentist follows these precautions, so it's worth confirming SMART certification before scheduling removal anywhere.

What should I expect during the procedure?

We'll begin by placing the dental dam and protective barriers, then remove the amalgam in sections under constant suction while you breathe filtered air. Most patients are surprised at how straightforward and comfortable the appointment feels.

Will my dental insurance cover SMART amalgam removal?

Coverage varies by provider, and SMART removal is sometimes classified as elective or holistic care rather than a standard covered procedure. Our team will review your benefits ahead of time and go over financing options if you need them.

What will replace my amalgam fillings?

Most patients choose tooth-colored composite fillings, which blend naturally with your smile and don't contain mercury. We'll walk you through the material options that make sense for the tooth being treated.

What makes your dental practice different?

We combine advanced dentistry with a holistic, biologic approach that focuses on your overall health—not just your teeth.

Schedule Your Safe Amalgam Removal Consultation

If you're ready to have your metal fillings removed the safe way, our Rochester, NY team is here to help. Call (585) 244-3337 or book an appointment online to get started.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.