Amalgam Fillings

Dental amalgam is a blend of metals such as silver, copper and tin. Mercury binds these metals together, providing a strong, hard, durable 'silver' filling for your teeth. Dental amalgam is less expensive than other materials

Do amalgam fillings release mercury?

If you have amalgam fillings, mercury vapour may be released when you chew vigorously or grind your teeth. The amount of vapour released from fillings is extremely small. there is no valid scientific evidence that associates this tiny amount of mercury vapour with any health problems

Is the mercury in my amalgam fillings safe?

The mercury used in fillings is safe for most people. Authorities such as the British Dental Association, US Public Health Service, FDI World Dental Federation and World Health Organisation state that amalgam has been used for more than 150 years in millions of patients and no controlled studies have shown adverse health effects, except for rare cases of mercury allergy.

I've heard that people are cured from illness when amalgam fillings are removed - is this true?

Stories of overnight cures from serious diseases have never been supported by sound scientific evaluation. If you are concerned about your amalgam fillings your dentist will be happy to discuss the benefits and risks of replacing them.

What are the alternatives to amalgam fillings?

Composite fillings are tooth coloured and can be used for front fillings They generally don't last as long as amalgam, but this should be weighed up against their excellent appearance and any concerns you may have about mercury release. Composites are effective if they are not very wide, and only involved one or two surfaces of the tooth. Gold or porcelain inlays and overlays are very effective filling materials due to their strength and long term durability. They are more expensive than other materials. To find out which treatment is best for you, and the costs involved, talk to your dentist.