Is there mercury in tooth fillings?
The short answer is “yes,” but there are reasons for its use. And studies confirm amalgam fillings are safe and effective. These “silver fillings” have been used for over 150 years, but some controversy still remains regarding their safety.
Amalgam Fillings are Common
Dental amalgam is the material used to fill cavities. It is a combination of metals, including elemental (liquid) mercury, silver, tin and copper. The mercury (liquid) is mixed with the silver, tin and copper (alloy powder) producing a safe, strong, long-lasting durable filling.
The Concern of Mercury in Tooth Fillings
The major concern of amalgam fillings deals with the amount of mercury the fillings can release and then absorbed by the body. Dental amalgams release very low levels of mercury in vapor form and can be absorbed by the lungs.
Studies Show Fillings are Safe
Scientific studies conclude amalgam fillings are safe and effective. The conclusions from these extensive studies have been confirmed by the American Dental Association (ADA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“U.S. government summaries on the effects of dental amalgam conclude that there is no apparent health hazard to the general population, but that further study is needed to determine the possibility of more subtle behavioral or immune system effects, and to determine the levels of exposure that may lead to adverse effects in sensitive populations. Sensitive populations include pregnant women, children under the age of 6 (especially up to the age of 3), people with impaired kidney function, and people with hypersensitive immune responses to metals.”
Alternatives to Dental Amalgam
Other materials are available to fill cavities caused by dental decay. Like dental amalgam, these direct filling materials restore the biting surface of a tooth damaged by decay. Contact Dr. David Buran today to discuss these alternative treatment options based on the location of cavities in your mouth and the amount of tooth decay.
Schedule a Consultation – Call (770) 943-0701
