Mercury toxicity in Dental Amalgam (Silver fillings)

What is Mercury toxicity?

It refers to the conflicting views over the use of amalgam as a filling material mainly because it contains the element Mercury. Scientists agree that dental amalgam fillings leach mercury into the mouth, but studies vary widely in the amount and whether such amount presents significant health risks. 

What Happens?

Mercury is a component of the amalgam used for "silver" fillings. The other major ingredients are silver, tin, copper, and zinc. When mixed, these elements bond to form a strong, stable substance.

Effects 

Potential amalgam-induced health risks which have been studied by researchers include those related to allergy as well as toxicity.

What they don't tell you?

ADA Code of Ethics, has held that, "the removal of amalgam restorations from the non-allergic patient for the alleged purpose of removing toxic substances from the body, when such treatment is performed solely at the recommendation or suggestion of the dentist, is improper and unethical".

Austria, Canada, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden have banned or discouraged mercury fillings, especially in children and pregnant women.

Role of FDA

The mercury used in dental amalgam fillings is not at a level high enough to cause harm in patients, according to the FDA.

The special controls are spelled out in a guidance document that includes recommendations on labeling and other parameters. Among the labeling recommendations:

•         A warning against the use of the filling material in those with a known mercury allergy

•         A warning to dentists and other dental professionals to use adequate ventilation when handling the dental amalgam

•         A statement talking about the risk and benefit of the dental amalgams, including the risks of inhaled mercury vapor. The statement is meant to help patients and dentists make informed decisions.

My Call

Most modern dental offices do not use amalgam fillings anymore.But if you have pre-existing silver fillings in your mouth then take the following steps:

1/ Do research and undergo tests to determine if you are susceptible to mercury poisoning. 

2/ Otherwise replace the amalgam fillings in your mouth only if they are leaky or damaged.

3/ Make sure you find a mercury-free dentist who follows the protocol for safe amalgam removal.