If you are considering having your amalgam fillings removed, it’s important to make sure that you have them removed in a safe manner. This protects you, other dental patients, and the environment from the hazards of mercury exposure. Although most dentists will offer to remove your mercury amalgam fillings, few will do it safely.
Our Rochester, NY, holistic dentist, Dr. Arlene Messer, is a member of the International Association of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), and she follows their science-based guidelines for the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART). To schedule the safe removal of your mercury amalgam fillings at Contemporary Dentistry, please call (585) 244-3337 today.
Why Safe Amalgam Removal Matters
If you are going to remove your metal amalgam fillings, it’s important to make sure it’s done safely. Otherwise, you are just trading a long, slow exposure to mercury for a potentially much more toxic acute amalgam exposure.
When metal amalgam fillings are being removed, more of the mercury can be released as vapor and some of the filling may break off as fine particles that can be ingested or inhaled. Mercury vapor that isn’t inhaled by you can enter the air and potentially be inhaled by others.
And if mercury isn’t properly handled during removal, it can enter the water supply. In the past, metal amalgam was a major source of mercury in rivers and lakes.
How SMART Works
At Contemporary Dentistry, we follow the IAOMT’s SMART protocol to ensure your mercury amalgam fillings are removed with the least risk possible. This protocol includes a focus on environmental safety, patient protection, and proper waste handling.
Isolation
The process begins with isolating the treatment area. A non-latex dental dam is placed to protect your mouth and keep mercury particles contained. Your body and face are also covered with protective drapes, leaving only the treatment site exposed.
Airflow Control
To manage airborne mercury, each operatory is equipped with a high-volume air filtration system. A Dental Air Vac is placed near your mouth to capture mercury vapor as it’s released. In addition, high-powered suction devices continuously remove air and particles from the treatment area.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Our dental team wears specialized PPE, including mercury-rated respirators, face shields, gloves, and gowns. For further protection, patients can wear an oxygen nasal mask during the procedure, allowing them to breathe clean, filtered air instead of potentially contaminated office air.
Mercury Waste Disposal
All mercury-contaminated material is safely collected and disposed of through licensed hazardous waste services. We use an amalgam separator to prevent mercury from entering the water system, ensuring our process aligns with both health and environmental safety standards.
This comprehensive approach allows us to perform safe mercury removal in Rochester, NY, with a focus on protecting patient health and promoting long-term wellness.
Metal Amalgam Removal Done Right
If you want to remove your metal amalgam fillings, it’s important to make sure that it’s done as safely as possible for you, others around you, and the environment. We always follow best practices to make sure that the removal of your metal amalgam is done right.
To learn more about the safe removal of metal amalgam fillings in Rochester, NY, please call (585) 244-3337 today for an appointment at Contemporary Dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Mercury Removal
Who should remove my amalgam fillings?
Only trained professionals with experience in safe mercury removal protocols, such as SMART, should perform this procedure. Dr. Arlene Messer is one of the few Rochester, NY dentists certified in SMART methodology and well-versed in holistic dentistry practices.
What should I expect during the procedure?
During your appointment, we will begin by preparing the environment and placing protective barriers. The amalgam fillings will be removed in sections, under constant suction, and you’ll breathe filtered air or oxygen throughout. Most patients are surprised at how comfortable and easy the process is.
How much does it cost? Will my insurance cover it?
Insurance coverage varies depending on your provider. While safe mercury removal is often categorized as elective or holistic, some insurance companies may cover part of the procedure. Our office will review your benefits in advance and offer flexible financing options if needed.
