DENTAL AMALGAM- IS IT SAFE?
We are asked this all the time. Over the years concerns have been raised about the use of amalgam fillings because they contain mercury.
The controversy over mercury in amalgam centers on how much mercury is released from fillings and absorbed into the body. In the past, it was thought that amalgam fillings were inert, meaning that no mercury was released once the filling was complete. In recent years, sophisticated tests have shown that very small amounts of mercury in the form of vapour can be released as the amalgam wears.
Research on this issue is complex, with some studies showing that any vapour released from amalgam in the mouth is very low.
However, there is also research that does not support such findings. In
fact, there are countries who ban the use of silver fillings, namely
the Scandinavian countries and Germany. Additionally, throughout the
United States, there are dentists and dental researchers who are
convinced of the toxicity of mercury in dental amalgam.
A new high strength ceramic filling on the
furthest tooth compared with a Mercury Amalgam
We now also know that amalgam fillings actually contribute to
micro fractures within tooth structure. This occurs because their rate
of expansion and contraction (as it relates to temperature changes
within the mouth), is different than that of natural tooth structure.
These fractures, or cracks, may contribute to the increased need for
root canal therapy and crowns on teeth.
Given the fact that these fillings are unsightly, possibly toxic and
can contribute to the breakdown of teeth, we no longer feel that they
have a place in contemporary practice.
We now have incredibly strong materials in dentistry that can be used in place of amalgam restorations and are as durable. They are also beautiful, offering luminescent qualities and shades almost identical to tooth enamel. Composite resin, porcelain and ceramic restorations are now available for almost any situation. This means we can finally move to become a Mercury free practice and provide restorations that are long lasting as well as beautiful.
