Mercury Free Fillings – Better for Your Health and the Environment

Did you know that dentists are the second largest users of mercury in the United States, placing over 30 million mercury fillings annually? Dental amalgam is a commonly used material to fill cavities that are known as ‘silver fillings.’ What many people aren’t aware of is the fact that these silver fillings contain mercury. Mercury poses several health hazards, which has brought about the rise in mercury free fillings. Let’s explore why mercury free fillings are a better choice for your health.

What is Amalgam?

Amalgam is a combination of various metals that until recently has been a widely used filling material. The metals include mercury, silver, tin, and copper as well as traces of zinc, indium or palladium. Today, due to health concerns about the use of mercury, some dentists are using alternative materials for fillings.

How Safe is it?

Although the FDA has not restricted the use of amalgam, there are several groups asking the department to reconsider. Dental amalgams are the main source of mercury exposure and accumulation of mercury in the body and there have been 0 studies proving that dental mercury is safe for children. These concerns in combination with the fact that the exposure is continuous over many years is quite troubling.

Why is Mercury Used?

The reason why mercury is used in fillings is that it works well. When mercury is mixed with an alloy powder, it becomes a compound soft enough to mix and press into the tooth. It quickly hardens and can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. However, the effectiveness of mercury in dental fillings seems unimportant when you consider the alternatives that can be used. Mercury free fillings are non-toxic, they are also environmentally friendly, biocompatible, and reduce the risk for cracked and sensitive teeth. The composites used in mercury free fillings bond to the teeth, strengthening their entire structure.

Mercury and Disease

Mercury is highly toxic. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry ranks mercury third on their list of hazardous substances. The only substances they consider more toxic are plutonium and cyanide. Mercury is linked to diseases like Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Crohn’s Disease, as well as Lupus. It can also cause numerous gastrointestinal issues and neurological problems. With these types of risks, why use anything but mercury free fillings?

Filling Removal

If you have silver fillings and concerns about their health-related risks, consider having those fillings removed and replaced with alternatives. It is important to remember that if the fillings are removed improperly, you could potentially ingest mercury vapor during the process. Fortunately, there are removal strategies that protect patients by minimizing exposure to mercury vapor. This process is carried out by a dentist following the highest standards for amalgam removal created by the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology. Be sure to confirm with your dentist that they utilize safe practices when opting for a mercury free fillings.