Metal Mouth: The harmful
effects of mercury in
fillings
B L O G | S U N R I S E D E N T I S T R Y
https://sunrise-dentistry.com/
Dental amalgam has been used in
dentistry for more than 150 years.
Many dentists use amalgams to fill
cavities, which have used in hundreds
of millions of patients. The main
concern of dental amalgams lies in
the fact that it contains mercury.
While the FDA currently claims that
the amount of mercury used in dental
amalgam is safe, they admit that
health risks exist. This article will
help you to better understand what
dental amalgams are and the
potential health risks they pose. At
Sunrise Dentistry, we offer safe
alternatives to dental amalgams that
are always mercury free.
What is Amalgam and Why is
Mercury Used?
Dental amalgam is more commonly
known as a silver filling; however,
silver is only a small part of what
makes up dental amalgam. 43-54%
of dental amalgams are mercury,
while other components include
silver, tin, and copper with possible
amounts of zinc, indium, and
palladium.
Mercury is used in dental amalgams
because it makes the material pliable.
When mixed with an alloy powder, it
is soft enough to press into the tooth.
It also hardens quickly, can
withstand biting and chewing, and
lasts for 20+ years.
Issues in Dentistry
Mercury in amalgam is considered
harmless, and continues to be used
daily in dentistry. However, many
health issues can arise from
amalgam.
First off, mercury is a neurotoxin,
which when used for fillings is placed
one inch away from your brain. As
the filling wears over time, small
amounts of mercury can be released
in the form of vapor. This can lead to
mercury build up in body organs.
In 2010, the FDA warned against the
use of amalgam within vulnerable
populations. These populations
include children, pregnant women in
regards to the fetus, hypersensitive
people, and people with kidney
impairments. While low levels of
mercury don’t cause ill effects,
higher levels can result in anxiety,
irritability, memory loss, headaches,
and fatigue.
Alternative