Are Silver Amalgam Dental Fillings Safe?

Is It Okay To Get Silver Dental Fillings?

Millions of people have silver amalgam fillings. However, some patients have raised issues recently about the mercury used in this dental product. In this article, we separate fact from fiction regarding silver amalgam dental fillings.

Silver Amalgam

Silver amalgam consists of mercury, copper, and tin mixed with silver. This amalgam has been an effective and popular material for fillings for over 150 years. While it’s not used as frequently as before, it remains less expensive than other dental substances. Also, silver amalgam holds up better as it lasts longer in teeth, given they go through a lot of chewing and pressure.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has evaluated dental fillings extensively to determine their safety. The FDA asserts that silver amalgam fillings are safe for most adults and children aged six and older.

Concerns about Mercury in Amalgam Fillings

The FDA reviewed the best scientific evidence regarding the low levels of mercury associated with fillings. The agency concluded that the amount of mercury found is minimal and not a cause for concern. Overall, the FDA found that the general population does not suffer adverse health effects from the low levels of mercury in fillings.

Regardless, the controversy over silver amalgam fillings continues, and some groups have requested the FDA to review its findings, which the FDA is doing. As mentioned above, controversial issues arise from the amount of mercury these fillings release.

Previously, most people considered silver fillings inert, meaning no mercury would be released after filling placement. However, more sophisticated tests conducted in recent years have revealed that minimal amounts of mercury vapor can be released as these fillings go through typical wear. Fortunately, several reviews of this research have concluded that the amount of mercury vapor released is meager.

General Exposure to Mercury

The reality is that we all get some exposure to mercury through drinking water, air, soil, and food. Over the years, mercury has been building up in fish. Also, industries burn fuels containing mercury, which enters the air we breathe.

While mercury from all sources will accumulate in our organs, it’s understandable to ask, “Do the silver fillings add enough to cause a concern?” Fortunately, studies have shown that the exposure is less than people experience from other sources.

However, some individuals should be wary of possible mercury exposure. For example, pregnant people should not have silver fillings because the mercury can cross the placenta into the fetus.

Ask Your Local Dental Professional about Safe Fillings

Patients in the general population and parents of children can talk with their dentist about available amalgam alternatives. The Cincinnati-based oral health providers at Beckham Square Family Dental can suggest tooth-colored and more natural-looking materials if you need to repair cracked or broken silver fillings.