The Impact of Amalgam in Dentistry

Amalgam silver-mercury fillings have been used extensively over the past 170 years and remain contentious. The majority of dental associations around the world maintain that amalgam fillings are safe to use. However, a growing number of dentists and organisations are concerned about the negative health implications and the impact on the environment.

Amalgam consists of 50% mercury, 35% silver, and smaller amounts of tin, copper and zinc. Mercury is known to be one of the most toxic substances to man. Although it was initially believed that the mercury was tightly bound within the amalgam, it has subsequently been proved that small amounts of mercury vapour are released from these fillings. It is argued that these quantities are so minute that they do not cause any harm to the patients and that they are well below the toxic threshold determined by the World Health Organisation. Nevertheless, we feel that even a tiny amount of a toxin remains a toxin, and there can't be a safe threshold that applies to all individuals.

Continual exposure to low doses can result in symptoms; some people are more sensitive to mercury than others. The official consensus is that most people tolerate their existing amalgam fillings well. However, many patients who suffer from non-responsive chronic illnesses and fatigue display symptoms of mercury toxicity and are convinced that these fillings make them ill. It should be noted that should these people decide to have their fillings replaced, it must be done safely using specific protocols. Without taking special precautions and care, the symptoms could worsen dramatically as increased volumes of mercury are released and swallowed during the placement and removal of amalgam.

Due to the unrelenting controversy about the effect of amalgam fillings on systemic health, it is prudent to avoid them. Besides, it makes perfect sense when such excellent alternative materials, like composite and porcelain, are available. Instead of merely filling a damaged tooth as ill-fitting amalgam does, correctly applied composite and porcelain can restore a tooth to its original function, beauty, and strength. These materials are more technique-sensitive and require special skills. They also take longer to place and cost more than amalgam. But they are well worth it. Patients should discuss the available options with their dentists before having a filling done.

 FAQs

Renowned as leading Cape Town holistic dentists since the 1990s, Hout Bay Dental Studio answered some questions for a Cosmopolitan Magazine article about the use of mercury amalgam fillings published a while ago. Many dental patients still have concerns about the biological dentistry impact of mercury amalgam silver fillings on their general health and raise these queries too.  This is what Dr Andy Effting had to say:

  • Mercury is a powerful metabolic poison, which means that it can damage any cell or tissue in the body, as well as numerous enzymes and hormones. Mercury that has been absorbed in the bloodstream is stored in the body organs, like the kidneys, leather, nerve tissue (brain) and in the gastrointestinal tract. Once present in the organs, mercury may damage individual cells, preventing them from functioning normally. This affects the efficiency of the organs and disrupts your body's normal biochemistry and physiology.

  • The time it takes for the first signs of mercury poisoning to appear is dependent on a variety of factors. These include the forms of mercury, the volume of exposure, the route it was exposed through, and each individual's unique response. The exposure to dental mercury is a chronic, accumulative form, and unfortunately, it can take many years before a person starts recognising the symptoms.

  • When chewing or grinding, mercury is released in the form of mercury vapour. Much of this vapour can then be inhaled. Once in the lungs, the vapour is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. Some of the released mercury can also be dissolved in the saliva from where it can be swallowed or absorbed through the mouth's soft tissues. Mercury can also come from external sources such as environmental pollution and dietary intake.

  • Symptoms related to mercury poisoning are vast and can vary greatly between individuals. Some common symptoms include:

    • Depression, fatigue, moodiness, inability to concentrate, anxiety

    • Nausea and diarrhoea, loss of appetite, digestive problems

    • Irregular heartbeat, change in blood pressure, pain in the chest

    • Swollen glands and tongue, ulcerations of the oral mucosa, bad breath

  • The best thing to do is become well informed. At present, no one can conclusively prove or disprove whether or not you should have your dental fillings replaced. Unfortunately, the obvious symptoms of mercury damage may take a long time to become noticeable.
    Speak to your dentist. Listen and read. Evaluate the credibility of the information you receive. The decision is yours alone.

  • Because people differ in their expression of symptoms, there is no hard and fast rule regarding the need to go for detoxification. Some people find their symptoms warrant the need to follow a comprehensive detoxification program using chelating agents. (These bind to the blood-borne mercury and that which is trapped in the tissues). Others feel happy using milder supplements like Chlorella. If you would like to use any of these products, it is advised that you contact a toxicologist that is experienced in amalgam-related treatments.

  • Composite (reinforced resin plastic) fillings are a great alternative to amalgam, and if placed correctly are very effective and long-lasting. In some cases, if it is a large filling or there are cracks in the tooth, a stronger porcelain material may be used. 


    Try to find a dentist experienced and knowledgeable in this area; one that has been 'mercury-free' for some time. They will be able to advise you on your own needs.