由 home-healthhaven 
For most of the 20th century, it was easy to spot someone who had dental work done for cavities because of their metallic amalgam fillings. Nowadays, those shiny fillings have mostly been replaced by tooth-colored ones made from porcelain or composite resin. Despite being less common now, amalgam fillings are still a hot topic of discussion.
**What Are Amalgam Fillings?**
Amalgam fillings are made from a mix of metals, with mercury being the most talked-about component, usually making up about half of the filling. Amalgam became popular in the 1800s for dental repairs because it was strong, durable, easy to use, and inexpensive. However, its usage has dropped in recent years due to health concerns, environmental issues, and its appearance.
**Concerns About Mercury**
Mercury is highly toxic, and even small amounts can harm the lungs, kidneys, and brain. Health professionals worry that amalgam fillings might be a significant source of mercury exposure for people. Yet, major public awareness hasn’t quite caught up with these concerns. A 2006 survey revealed that 72 percent of 2590 U.S. adults didn’t know their fillings contained mercury.
Research has been ongoing. A study in Sweden found a link between the number of amalgam fillings in deceased individuals and mercury levels in their kidneys and brains. Similarly, a German study noted higher mercury levels in the urine of those with amalgam fillings.
**Debate on Safety**
Despite many studies suggesting a connection between mercury exposure and amalgam fillings, the FDA maintains that there isn’t strong scientific evidence proving harm to patients. However, the symptoms of mercury poisoning can be vague, making it possible that many people might have symptoms without realizing it.
While the federal government doesn’t consider amalgam fillings a health risk, it enforces strict disposal rules for dentists due to environmental concerns about mercury pollution. Many dentists question why materials with environmental disposal regulations are still considered safe for use in patients.
**What You Can Do**
There is still much debate among scientists about the safety of amalgam fillings, but the World Health Organization (WHO) states that amalgam could account for 50 percent of mercury exposure in adults. WHO notes that activities like chewing gum and grinding teeth can significantly increase mercury release.
Dr. Joseph Serra, a dentist from Detroit, mentions many patients wish to replace their amalgam fillings due to health worries or for a more natural look. “It’s a controversial issue,” he says. “We inform our patients about the concerns and let them decide. Composite and porcelain materials definitely look better. We don’t offer amalgam fillings.”
If you’re concerned about your amalgam fillings, they can be replaced with modern tooth-colored ones. If you decide to keep them, consider WHO’s advice and perhaps stop chewing gum.