Is there any reason to have silver mercury / amalgam fillings removed?

Silver Fillings: The silver filling should be removed if it is leaking, cracked , or the margins are opened. All of these breed decay and destruction to the tooth. If none of these exist it is best to leave it alone.

Yes: Any man made material will only last for so long. Amalgam fillings have an average life expectancy of 15 years. After that the may last for several years or may begin breaking down and leaking around the edges and decay will begin or they may crack under stress. But you should not have an amalgam filling removed just because it has mercury in it. The mercury is bound to the other metals.

Do some research...: Do some research. You can choose an accredited dentist, member of the iabdm or iaomt. Take a look at their web sites- www.Iabdm.Org, www.Iaomt.Org - to find dentists, with additional training in safe removal of mercury, amalgam fillings by iaomt and iabdm . Accredited members of these international academies, follow their protocols. See consumers for dental choice- www.Toxicteeth.Org.

If they are leaking: Many fillings last a long time, it depends on if they were placed well and if they leak. Your dentist can use an intra oral camera to show you why they need to be replaced.

Only if they bare failing. Average life span of silver filling is 15 years, but many last longer. I have some over 60 years old. Tooth colored fillings have shorter av erase life spans. If you are concerned about the mercury in silver fillings, don't be. The mercury binds to the other metals and is therefore harmless.