For several decades, health experts have been waging a heated battle over the use of silver amalgam fillings, which contain approximately 50% mercury. This is a highly toxic metal that can cause a number of serious health conditions such as neurological dysfunction, Alzheimer’s, high cholesterol, and digestive disorders. Despite these risks, many specialists, including those at the American Dental Association, say that the mercury contained in dental fillings is not cause for concern. Fortunately, when we place dental fillings at our Ankeny, IA practice, we use tooth-colored composite resin. Whatever mercury experts ultimately determine about silver amalgam, you will be assured of a healthy and natural looking smile.
Amalgam Proponents
In America, many dentists continue to use silver amalgam for fillings. They say that amalgam contains relatively small amounts of mercury and that people encounter more mercury in the environment than they are ever exposed to through dental fillings. According to J. Rodway Mackert, a spokesman for the ADA, “The mercury in fish is methyl mercury and is much more easily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, whereas elemental mercury from an amalgam is almost not absorbed.” Several other high-profile groups agree with the ADA. However, it seems that the US may be falling out of sync with the rest of the world. Several countries, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Germany have restricted or banned the use of silver amalgam. Though there are no legal requirements to do so, in other countries such as France, dentists are moving away from the material of their own accord.
FDA Sued Over Amalgam Fillings
A new lawsuit may bring these issues to a head in the US. Just last week, several groups joined together and sued the FDA over the use of metal fillings. The plaintiffs include the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. They are calling for more restrictions on the use of dental amalgam, if not an outright ban on the material. The plaintiffs’ attorney, James M. Love, said, “The ADA has misrepresented FDA’s lack of regulation as proof of safety, and continues to use this toxic dental filling, despite scientifically demonstrated risks.” He and his clients claim that the US government utilizes more dental amalgam than any other group in the country, using it for low income citizens, prisoners, soldiers, and other recipients of government care.
Benefits of Composite Resin
The debate over silver amalgam is not likely to be resolved any time soon, especially since there are highly qualified experts on both sides. Whether or not amalgam is determined to be a public health hazard, one thing is certain: composite resin fillings have more cosmetic benefits than their metal counterparts. Metal fillings can begin to show through teeth over time, giving patients a gray tint to their smiles. Composite resin fillings, on the other hand, can be carefully matched to the natural shade of teeth. Thanks to this advanced material, patients can enjoy whiter (and possibly healthier) smiles.
About Dental Impressions: To learn more about composite fillings or to schedule your restorative treatment, schedule your appointment with Dr. Amanda Foust. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling 515-965-0230. Dr. Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and the surrounding areas since 2006.
