What is the proper procedure to remove an amalgam filling?

Depends.: Some people worry about the mercury in these fillings being absorbed by the body during removal. They will want a rubber dam used to isolate the tooth from the rest of the mouth and high-speed suction used during its removal. Some even go as far as having an air supply through a nose piece so they don't breathe in the air in the treatment room. Most people don't do anything special.

Mercury safe : 1) anesthetize 2) latex free dam & goggles 3) high quality strong dental suction-dental assistant in control 4) oxygen for patient to breathe 5) dentist electric drill - high torque & slower speed. Plenty of water spray to reduce heat build which causes mercury vapor release 6) chunk out filling -do not just drill it out 7) office amalgam separator 8) once removed, remove dam, thorough rinse.