How safe are amalgam fillings?

Try this...: I have both in my mouth and i would use them in my own children if thy needed fillings. That being said they are not the most beautiful choice.

Very: Amalgam fillings have been in use for over 100 years. They have never been proven to cause any type of systemic disorder. The problem is that there is mercury in amalgam. However, the mercury becomes inert due to the amalgamation process. Therefore, it is not available to react with the environment. If you are sensitive to mercury, however, you should not have any amalgam filings.

No evidence: There's no clear evidence that amalgams is unsafe. It's been used in dentistry for well over 100 years and has proven to be durable and effective. However, more and more people refuse to have this material placed in their mouth due to fears or cosmetic concerns. We now have good alternatives with porcelain and composite resins. I have amalgams and i'm not planning to change them any time soon.

Not safe: Recent technology shows mercury vapor given off with chewing, clenching, grinding and brushing. Mercury is not inert and the epa considers removed amalgam to be hazardous waste. I have installed a separator device in my office (at great expense) to collect this scrap so it does not pollute our water system. Scrap sent to hazardous waste certified facility. No amalgam since 1980!

Safe: Based on scientific evidence, fda considers dental amalgam fillings also known as silver fillings are safe for adults and children ages 6 and above. The amount of mercury measured in the bodies of people with dental amalgam fillings is well below levels associated with adverse health effects.

Silver fillings: Yes , they are safe. But only when they are small. Shallow and less than1/4 of the width if the tooth, they last for years. Bigger than that they should be replaced with tooth colored fillings. Those white filings need to be placed under a dental dam. If your dds doesn't use dental dam...Go to one who does. Its important. Just ask. I always use it. My patients appreciate that. The filings last.

Safer than white one: There is no evidence of safety issues of silver mercury amalgam restorations. For every one accusatory claim, i can match it with a claim about the ingredients of a white composite filling. The sad part is that silver mercury fillings can be far longer lasting and actually ward off decay something that white fillings can't claim. Bottom line, floss daily and you won't have the need for them!