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Biologic Dentistry I do not use, nor do I recommend mercury fillings. There is considerable debate today regarding the use and safety of mercury fillings. An individual has the right to decide what is placed into his or her mouth. I feel it is very important that each person be fully informed to aid them in this decision. Silver fillings, also known as silver or amalgam fillings, have been used as a filling material since the turn of the last century. Although the material has worked “well” for people for many years, concerns over their safety have arisen over the years. This is because the fillings contain approximately 50% mercury. Mercury is known to be very toxic and will cause health problems with excessive or long-term exposure. Mercury is also known to accumulate in the tissue of organs (kidneys, brain, lungs, liver and G.I. tract) over long periods of time. www.iaomt.org Mercury is released into the body at the time of placement, during normal eating and grinding of teeth, and at the time of removal. Twenty years ago after realizing this, I not only didn’t want mercury to be placed in my patients’ mouths, I didn’t want it to be in my office at all. The 1991 World Health Organization study reports that dental amalgam constitutes the major source of exposure of mercury to humans. There are also reports connecting amalgam exposure to Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease and autism. As a patient, your decisions to be made are:
When safeguarding your health, make sure your dentist is trained in the proper technique of removing the mercury/amalgam fillings, without creating more toxicity in the body. Also, be certain that your dentist is trained in selecting the correct materials when replacing these fillings. Ninety percent of the time extensive fracturing of the actual tooth structure will be found along with decay under the old filling. Consequently, a technique must be used that will properly restore the tooth and will also make it a stronger tooth. Fortunately, the newer materials are not only biocompatible, but also very aesthetic.
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