Dental amalgams contain mercury, tin, silver, copper, and sometimes other metals in various combinations. The use of dental amalgam has probably been the practice of dentistry’s greatest controversy since its inception in 1815 by Dr. J. P. Gage to replace decayed teeth with an attractive material that would last forever! Today, research shows that dental amalgams create tremendous “stress” inside your body due to their effect on your immune system and their toxicity to brain cells.
These risks amalgam has for your health. In this article, I summarize the latest scientific findings – simple & for everyone to understand.
Nearly no other material for dental fillings is as widely used and at the same time as controversial as amalgam.
- Around 85 percent of all adults have one dental filling or another…
- ..and a good 40 percent of all dental fillings are made of amalgam.
Once and again one hears and reads very different facts & advice.
To get to the bottom of the topic once properly, I have conducted extensive research and compiled in this article everything worth knowing about amalgam for you.
Among other things, I address the following topics:
As you can see, amalgam fillings are a very extensive chapter in dentistry. I am convinced that you will find answers to all your questions here.
What is amalgam?
Before I start talking about the use of amalgam in dentistry, I would first like to clarify what amalgam is all about.
- Many patients still think amalgam is the name for a specific metal, but that is not true.
- The word amalgam comes from Latin and stands for a connection of several metals
The well-known black fillings are made of several metals.
These are usually the heavy metals silver, tin, copper, and mercury, which are mixed together and undergo a chemical reaction to form what is known as amalgam.
Composition of amalgam
The amalgam used in Germany is usually 50 percent mercury (the other half is composed of silver, tin and copper).
The mercury used in particular has been the trigger of much debate about the harmful side effects of amalgam.
Why is mercury dangerous?
Pure mercury is deadly to humans even in small amounts. Several grams are enough to cause health damage.
Warning: The mercury that is present in amalgam dental fillings, however, is bound in the mixture with the other metals and is far below the harmful limit.
However: The mercury evaporates from the amalgam very slowly over the years. The resulting vapors have various risks that can adversely affect the body.
The most frequently mentioned negative characteristics here are:
- The formation of free radicals that can affect organs and tissues in the body
- Sulfur binding – binding to sulfur groups can block important metabolic enzymes
So amalgam fillings build up in the body and can cause discomfort – at least that’s the opinion of critics.
The fillings lose more than half of the mercury
Studies show that after ten years, amalgam fillings have only half of the mercury they originally used.
So, as the mercury in the amalgam filling dissolves over the years and enters the body in the process, it can be responsible for various diseases
What these are and what symptoms can occur, you can read further down in the text.
Before that, however, I would like to clarify why the material is used in the first place (because the dangers of mercury have been known for decades).
Why are amalgam fillings used at all?
The amalgam mixture has several properties that have long established it as the perfect filling material in dentistry worldwide:
Amalgam is popular mainly because of its durability & its affordable price.
- For one thing, the compound – before it hardens – is easily malleable, making it an ideal fit for the hole.
- Once the amalgam hardens, the filling is very resistant and long-lasting.
- In particular, where great chewing pressure occurs, amalgam provides perfect conditions to replace the dental material
Fact: Amalgam is one of the oldest and most commonly used materials to fill holes in teeth.
For this reason, there are also many scientific studies that have examined the use and possible side effects of amalgam and certified it as harmless (more on this below)
How is an amalgam filling placed?
If your dentist has discovered a major hole in your tooth due to decay, he will almost certainly suggest that you close it with an amalgam filling.
However, he proceeds as follows:
- First, the dentist clears the affected tooth of decay and debris such as tartar. If it is a deep hole, a local anesthetic or general anesthesia is used.
- The dentist then prepares the tooth so that the filling sits as well as possible and adheres to the enamel in the long term.
- Now he inserts the freshly mixed amalgam mixture into your tooth and the material immediately begins to harden.
- Once the filling is in the tooth the dentist starts working on it so that it fits as closely as possible to your other teeth. Blue paper is often used in this process to check the exact bite.
- Once the dental filling has hardened, you can put your tooth back in as usual.
Tip:In the first two hours, however, you should not eat solid food. After about 24 hours, the amalgam is completely hardened.
Dangers of an amalgam filling
As described earlier, a small percentage of mercury enters the body over the years when an amalgam tooth filling is placed.
Mercury actually accumulates in the body, but…
This process has ensured that amalgam fillings in teeth have very often been described as harmful to health.
In particular, alternative medical practitioners and naturopaths classify amalgam as harmful – and warn of (allegedly) widespread amalgam poisoning.
Possible health risks mercury can cause
Critics of amalgam fillings cite that various symptoms of illness can occur after many years.
The most common of these are:
- Headache
- Fatigue or
- dizziness
Current research, however, largely rules out amalgam as a trigger of these diseases.
Because the process of mercury absorption is slow and steady, it is very difficult to prove a negative effect on the organism.
Mercury uptake studies
Amalgam mixtures have been used as filling materials in dentistry for many centuries, and there are countless studies showing that their use in most patients is absolutely risk-free.
Accordingly, the amount of mercury absorbed by the body through fillings is the same as the levels of mercury found in nature, for example in the air or when eating fish.
The body absorbs unbound mercury (e.g., in wild-caught fish) much more readily than that bound in amalgam.
Scientific studies at a glance
In 2014, a scientific advisory committee to the EU Commission took a closer look at the health risks of amalgam.
- This study concluded that mercury in dental fillings poses a rather low risk
- No clear relationship was found between health complaints and amalgam quantity in the mouth.
However:If improperly disposed of, mercury could cause indirect health complaints (e.g., if it accumulates in the environment or groundwater).
In Germany, however, this is virtually impossible – high standards for dental practices apply in this country, and removed amalgam must be disposed of properly.
Other studies on the harmfulness of amalgam paint a similar picture
A Canadian professor has calculated that an adult with ten dental amalgam fillings has just two percent of the permissible limit for mercury in the body.
According to Prof. Stefan Halbach of the Helmholtz Research Center Neuherberg Halbach, the usual amalgam concentration is “far below the critical range for health.”
Scientific studies on amalgam fillings give the all-clear.
Even an earlier study of about 5000 participants failed to find a clear link between the number of amalgam fillings and the occurrence of symptoms.
A final question: Would German health insurance companies actually allow amalgam to be used if it were harmful in the long term?
In the long run, it would clearly be more expensive (I won’t even mention the suffering it causes here)
Can amalgam still cause discomfort?
On the Internet, numerous people describe their symptoms (citing amalgam fillings as the reason).
- How can it be when numerous studies see no connection between amalgam & health complaints?
- As is so often the case, the complaints can also be psychological in nature – without having a real physical basis.
Science calls this psychogenic amalgam intolerance (a kind of negative placebo effect).
Often then only a removal of the fillings helps to alleviate the discomfort.
Infobox: Amalgam allergy
A few people suffer from a true amalgam allergy.
- The symptoms then occur quite quickly & very clearly (and do not appear years later).
- However, such an allergy is quite rare – in pretty much all cases, other causes are more likely.
And: Alternative materials such as plastic cause significantly more allergic reactions than amalgam.
Do not underestimate your health complaints
If you also suffer from your amalgam filling, then of course it doesn’t make much difference to you whether the reasons are physical or psychological.
Because you will still feel the unpleasant symptoms.
Be sure to approach your dentist if you are suffering from discomfort.
You may already be helped by the knowledge in this article – a serious risk to your health is virtually ruled out according to the latest findings in dentistry.
For some sufferers, however, only removing the fillings will help.
In a scientific study conducted by the Technical University of Munich, this brought noticeable relief.
Summarized: Even if the discomfort caused by amalgam is only psychological – the perceived consequences remain the same for those affected. Take your body seriously and consult your dentist.
New laws on the use of amalgam
As many people feel discomfort despite the scientific facts, the number of amalgam fillings is steadily decreasing.
However, as health regulations continue to tighten and, when in doubt, precaution is paramount, it was agreed in Europe in 2017 to ban the use of amalgam fillings in children under the age of 15 and in pregnant and breastfeeding women from July 2018.
In addition, dentists will only be allowed to use ready-mixed amalgam in the future, so that the mercury content of dental fillings is always the same.
Some countries go further and have restricted the use of amalgam even more. This is the case in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, for example.
Amalgam – all advantages and disadvantages at a glance
+ easy to process– Looks unsightly
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| + resistant | – Mercury enters the body |
| + very inexpensive | – is difficult to remove |
| + long lasting | |
| + prevents caries development |
Aesthetic aspects of an amalgam filling
Many patients today also choose not to have amalgam fillings because the silver-colored fillings are considered unaesthetic.
- A white plastic filling blends in much better with the natural color of the teeth and is not noticeable at first glance.
- Especially on the front teeth, white plastic fillings are nowadays almost always used, which are hardly visible.
In addition to the aesthetics & the impact on health, of course, the cost is also important when choosing a filling material.
Cost of an amalgam filling
One of the main reasons for the widespread use of amalgam fillings is their inexpensive production and processing.
- Health insurance companies only cover the cost of an amalgam filling if there are large holes in the chewing area.
- Plastic dental fillings or even inlays, on the other hand, are associated with considerable additional costs.
What to do if you have an amalgam allergy?
If you suffer from an amalgam allergy, you can apply to your health insurance company to use only plastic in your dental fillings.
If the allergy is medically proven (!), the health insurance company will cover all costs incurred.
Alternatives to a dental filling with amalgam
For visible teeth (such as incisors or canines), health insurance will pay for a plastic filling.
This is done for aesthetic reasons, not because of a possible hazard.
Veneers whiten teeth, but they are very expensive.
- For larger holes, inlays (inlay fillings) or dental crowns can also be used
- Veneers are also used – however, both variants are significantly more expensive than plastic or amalgam fillings.
And again, allergy tests show that significantly more people are allergic to plastics than to amalgam.
If you want to learn more about the pros and cons of these dental fillings, I recommend this post: composite & plastic dental fillings.
The best prevention is thorough dental care
As controversial as the topic of amalgam is, all experts agree on one thing:
- The best remedy for dental fillings of any kind is thorough and careful dental hygiene.
- If you brush your teeth thoroughly several times a day, you prevent tooth decay from spreading and causing cavities and rotten teeth.
On this page you will find a lot of practical advice about dental care:
- Familiarize yourself with general dental care tips for healthy teeth & start prevention today.
- Here you can learn everything about the right toothbrush & recommended models: Electric toothbrushes in the test.
- Here’s all important info on how to remove discoloration and get white teeth.
- In this section you will find more help for when common dental problems.
Take a few minutes and do something good for your teeth – it is guaranteed to pay off and save you from expensive dentures and severe toothache.
More questions about amalgam
Finally, here are a few answers to questions that didn’t come up anywhere else in the text.
What should I do if an amalgam filling falls out?
If you have had an amalgam filling fall out, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
The longer the hole in the tooth is left open, the more likely you are to develop bacterial infestation and a thick cheek.
Replace damaged holes as soon as possible to prevent costly consequences.
When a dental filling is open, harmful bacteria can make for bad teeth & other dental ailments like inflamed gums.
Should I have my existing amalgam fillings replaced with plastic fillings?
Most dentists and medical professionals advise against replacing functional amalgam fillings.
- In order to remove the existing amalgam filling, the dentist actually drills it open.
- This process releases significantly more pollutants than if you continue to use the filling as usual.
In addition, this procedure damages the natural tooth material (which the dentist is actually trying to prevent through minimally invasive dental treatments)
Not only that, but new dental fillings made of other materials also come at a further cost.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many aspects to consider when it comes to amalgam fillings.
- If you have an amalgam filling yourself, however, you should not worry about it for now.
- The filling material, which has been tried and tested for centuries, is still considered harmless today.
If you are interested in more information about dental fillings, then I can recommend this overview article with all the important information about types, costs & treatment methods: Dental Fillings.
Are there alternatives to dental amalgam fillings
If you have ever had a cavity, the chances are your dentist used amalgam fillings to restore your tooth. Amalgams are the traditional filling material used in dentistry, and they are a blend of different metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Although amalgams are effective and durable, in recent years, concerns about mercury exposure have led to increasing interest in alternative fillings.
One alternative to dental amalgam is composite resin fillings. Composites are a mixture of plastic and ceramic compounds, and they are a popular option since they match the color of your teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable. Moreover, composite resin fillings bond directly to the tooth, making them stronger than traditional amalgam fillings, which rely on a mechanical locking system to remain in place.
Another alternative to amalgam fillings is glass ionomer fillings. These fillings are a mix of acrylic and glass, and they release fluoride, which can help prevent further decay. Glass ionomer is not as durable as composite resin or amalgam, but it is an excellent option for people who are concerned about mercury exposure.
Lastly, ceramic or porcelain fillings are becoming increasingly popular due to their resemblance to natural teeth. These fillings are durable, and they are often an excellent choice for large cavities. However, ceramic fillings are the most expensive option, making them less accessible to some patients.
In conclusion, there are alternatives to amalgam fillings, and your dentist can help you determine which option is best for you. Composite resin, glass ionomer, and ceramic fillings are all excellent options that can help people avoid mercury exposure while maintaining a beautiful healthy smile.
Are there alternatives to dental amalgam fillings
If you have ever had a cavity, the chances are your dentist used amalgam fillings to restore your tooth. Amalgams are the traditional filling material used in dentistry, and they are a blend of different metals, including silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Although amalgams are effective and durable, in recent years, concerns about mercury exposure have led to increasing interest in alternative fillings.
One alternative to dental amalgam is composite resin fillings. Composites are a mixture of plastic and ceramic compounds, and they are a popular option since they match the color of your teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable. Moreover, composite resin fillings bond directly to the tooth, making them stronger than traditional amalgam fillings, which rely on a mechanical locking system to remain in place.
Another alternative to amalgam fillings is glass ionomer fillings. These fillings are a mix of acrylic and glass, and they release fluoride, which can help prevent further decay. Glass ionomer is not as durable as composite resin or amalgam, but it is an excellent option for people who are concerned about mercury exposure.
Lastly, ceramic or porcelain fillings are becoming increasingly popular due to their resemblance to natural teeth. These fillings are durable, and they are often an excellent choice for large cavities. However, ceramic fillings are the most expensive option, making them less accessible to some patients.
In conclusion, there are alternatives to amalgam fillings, and your dentist can help you determine which option is best for you. Composite resin, glass ionomer, and ceramic fillings are all excellent options that can help people avoid mercury exposure while maintaining a beautiful healthy smile.
How do dental professionals protect themselves and their patients from mercury exposure during amalgam filling placement or removal
As a dental professional with expertise in the field, it is always important to prioritize safety and the prevention of harmful exposure during amalgam filling placement or removal. Amalgam fillings are those which are made from a combination of metals, including mercury, which has been shown to pose potential health hazards. In order to prevent exposure to both patients and dental professionals, there are specific safety guidelines and practices that must be followed.
When placing or removing amalgam fillings, it is important to isolate the area being worked on to prevent the release of mercury particles into the atmosphere. This can be done through the use of a specialized rubber dam, which creates a barrier between the tooth being worked on and the rest of the mouth. Additionally, dental professionals should always wear personal protective equipment, including gloves, masks, and eye protection, to prevent inhalation or ingestion of any mercury particles that may be released.
It is also important to properly dispose of any amalgam waste, including any leftover materials or debris from the filling or removal process. This is typically done by utilizing specialized, mercury-safe disposal methods, which prevent mercury from entering our environment and causing harm. Dental professionals should be well-versed in these procedures in order to ensure the safety of both themselves and their patients.
Overall, as dental professionals, it is integral that we prioritize safety and take necessary precautions when placing or removing amalgam fillings, in order to prevent harmful exposure to both ourselves and our patients. By following the proper safety protocols and utilizing specialized equipment and procedures, we can ensure that we are doing our utmost to keep everyone safe and healthy.
How do I know if I have dental amalgam fillings
Have you ever wondered what kind of fillings you have in your teeth? If you got your fillings done many years ago, then chances are you have dental amalgam fillings. These are a mixture of metals, including silver, mercury, copper, and tin. Dental amalgam fillings are extremely durable and long-lasting, and they are still used by dentists today. However, there has been some controversy surrounding the use of dental amalgam fillings due to the potential health risks associated with mercury exposure.
One of the easiest ways to know if you have dental amalgam fillings is to simply check your teeth in a mirror. Amalgam fillings are silver in color and are usually noticeable in the back teeth. If you have fillings that are not silver in color, you may have composite or porcelain fillings instead. If you are unsure about the type of filling you have, you can always ask your dentist to confirm.
Another way to determine if you have dental amalgam fillings is to ask yourself when you got your fillings done. Dental amalgam fillings were commonly used in the past, but in recent years, composite and porcelain fillings have become more popular due to their more aesthetic appearance. If you got your fillings done many years ago, it is more likely that you have dental amalgam fillings.
Lastly, if you have concerns about your dental health, you can ask your dentist about the type of filling material used in your teeth. They will be able to provide more information on the type of filling material used and any potential risks associated with it. Remember, it is always important to maintain good dental hygiene, regardless of the type of filling material used in your teeth.
