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More than three dozen countries now ban the mercury amalgam used to make “silver” fillings. The United States isn’t one of them.
Still, change is happening. More dentists now place metal-free fillings due to their better aesthetics and patient demand. Even the FDA now acknowledges that some groups should avoid amalgam, including women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, nursing mothers, children under 6, and people with kidney disease, neurological conditions, or sensitivity to any component of amalgam.
Mercury fillings have no place in our practice. Instead, we use safer, biocompatible alternatives that are strong, durable, and look great. When old amalgams need to be removed, we follow strict safety guidelines to protect our patients, ourselves, and our environment.
That’s because mercury is one of the most toxic substances there is, especially as methylmercury, which accumulates in fish and poses serious health risks to humans. Studies have shown that, over time, even a small amount of mercury – about a gram a year – can contaminate a 20-acre lake enough that the fish in it may become unsafe to eat.
Mercury vapor is constantly released from amalgam fillings through various forms of stimulation – chewing, toothbrushing, teeth grinding, and exposure to heat, such as from hot foods or drink. Studies show that some forms of electromagnetic radiation may accelerate mercury release, as well.
Once released, at least some of the mercury vapor is inhaled and quickly introduced to the body’s general circulation. While our natural detox systems can deal with some exposure, they can get overwhelmed. For even in small amounts, mercury can accumulate in the human body over time, potentially affecting multiple organ systems. It’s particularly drawn toward organs such as the kidneys, liver, and brain.
Mercury toxicity can manifest in various ways, which can sometimes make it hard to properly identify. Common symptoms include
- Chronic fatigue and weakness.
- Memory problems and difficulty concentrating.
- Mood changes, including anxiety and irritability.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Digestive issues.
- Headaches and muscle aches.
- Metallic taste in the mouth.
- Tremors or coordination problems.
Over the years, research has shown that mercury may play a role in a wide variety of health conditions, including autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular issues, neurological problems, and reproductive concerns. It’s not that mercury is necessarily the cause. Rather, chronic exposure can add to the body’s overall toxic burden, potentially making existing health problems worse. For some, mercury exposure may be the proverbial last straw that tips the balance toward illness. Others tolerate amalgam for many years – until health challenges make them more vulnerable to mercury’s threat.
Dr. Tom McGuire’s Mercury Safe site is an excellent resource for learning all about mercury toxicity and related issues. Another is DAMS (Dental Amalgam Mercury Solutions).
As mentioned, whether you choose to have your amalgam fillings removed due to health concerns or just personal preference, safety is absolutely essential. That’s why we follow the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART), an evidence-based protocol developed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology (IAOMT). SMART includes the use of
- Amalgam separators and high-volume air filtration to capture mercury waste and vapor, respectively.
- Protective equipment for the patient and dental team (gowns, masks, gloves, face shields).
- Charcoal or chlorella rinse before and after the procedure.
- Nasal oxygen delivery and a dental dam with a saliva ejector under it.
- An oral aerosol vacuum positioned near the patient during amalgam removal.
- Sectioning the amalgam into large chunks using copious water and high-speed evacuation.
It’s important to understand, though, that just removing amalgam fillings typically won’t resolve complex health conditions on its own. Comprehensive healing often requires addressing multiple factors and may involve additional supportive therapies tailored to individual needs.
Ultimately, the choice to have amalgam fillings removed is a deeply personal one and should be made after careful consideration of individual health factors, values, and goals. It should also be a fully informed choice, which is why we share as much information as we can with you about your treatment options in advance, including their risks as well as their benefits. We also encourage you to discuss your concerns openly with us and ask questions so you can take the time to make a decision that feels right for you.
Whether you choose to keep your mercury fillings or have them replaced with biocompatible alternatives, we respect and support your decision. For we believe in empowering patients with knowledge AND respecting their autonomy in making health choices.
