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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 and both Dr. Anna Belous and Dr. Adriana Palacio are IAOMT SMART certified.
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 About SMART Safe Amalgam Removal Answered By Our Expert Dentists
Who should perform my amalgam removal?
Amalgam removal should only be performed by a provider trained and certified in a recognized safety protocol like SMART. Not every dentist follows these precautions, so it's worth confirming SMART certification before scheduling removal anywhere. We are SMART certified professionals that have gone through the advanced training and follow the stringent protocol requirements. SMART protocol -compliant amalgam removal is the first step in your holistic dentistry journey and you will be in good hands with all of your holistic dentistry needs in our practice, all under one roof.
What should I expect during the procedure?
Most patients are surprised at how straightforward and comfortable the appointment feels. The SMART protocol includes a focus on environmental safety, patient protection, and proper waste handling. You can expect the following steps to be taken by the doctors:
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.
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?
To continue on their holistic dentistry journey, most patients choose bio-compatible 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.
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.