In This Article

Stage 1: Learning and deciding

Before doing anything else, give yourself a foundation of honest information. The decision to remove amalgam fillings is personal and should be made with clear eyes about the evidence — not fear from advocacy sites or dismissiveness from sources that haven't engaged with legitimate patient concerns.

Core questions to answer for yourself

I understand what amalgam fillings are made of and how they release mercury vapor. Read the basics →
I've read an honest summary of what the research does and doesn't show about health impacts. Read the evidence →
I understand that removal itself temporarily increases mercury exposure — the protocol matters. Read about SMART →
I've weighed the case for removal and the case for leaving fillings in. Read the comparison →
My personal reasons for considering removal: (write your own answer)

Stage 2: Choosing a provider

Research checklist

I've used the provider directory and/or IAOMT's finder to identify candidates in my area or travel range.
I've verified any IAOMT certification claims at iaomt.org/find-a-dentist.
I've called and confirmed the specific protocol elements: rubber dam, sectioning, HVE, air filtration.
I've received an itemized written estimate including all cost components.
I've verified my insurance coverage and understand my estimated out-of-pocket.
I've chosen my provider: (name, location, date of appointment)

Stage 3: Preparing for your appointment

Written question list prepared (use the interactive checklist)
Dental records and X-rays transferred or ready to bring
Medications list prepared (especially anticoagulants, blood thinners)
Driver arranged if sedation is planned
Time off work scheduled
Soft foods stocked at home
Payment ready (HSA/FSA card, CareCredit, or other financing confirmed)

Stage 4: The appointment

On the day, you have every right to ask the dental team to confirm their protective setup before they begin. A confident, protocol-driven practice welcomes these questions.

Arrive early; complete any remaining paperwork
Confirm rubber dam placement before starting
Confirm HVE is positioned and air filtration is running
Understand the anesthesia plan and what to expect
Before leaving: schedule follow-up, get documentation of what was placed, get after-hours contact

Stage 5: Recovery

Rest the appointment day; no demanding work or decisions
Soft foods until numbness fully wears off
Avoid very hot/cold foods for 48–72 hours
Monitor: bite alignment, temperature sensitivity, gum soreness. Note anything unusual.
Follow-up appointment completed
Treatment complete. Update your regular dentist's records.

Personal notes

Use this section to track key information from your appointments, questions that came up, and anything you want to remember for follow-up visits.

Provider name: _________________    Appointment date: _________________

Fillings treated: _________________    Replacement material: _________________

Follow-up scheduled: _________________    Notes: _________________
Interactive Checklist Tool → ← Prepare Hub