Is mercury in dental amalgam safe to use?

Yes, but not needed: The mercury in dental amalgam is, after the material hardens, not elemental in form. It is elemental mercury that is poisonous. Claims that dental amalgams cause all kinds of diseases are unfounded. There is tons of research that proves it is safe. However, mercury in any form is a heavy metal and collects in vital tissues (brain, kidneys, etc.). Mercury containing fillings are no longer needed.

Mostly Yes: The mixtures in the several years is very different than older mixes. New mixes don't have any extra mercury like the old kinds. Also the real big problem with amalgams is not the mercury, it is 2 other problems: 1) the bacteria that leaks down between the filling and the tooth causes deep cavities. 2) the fractures that occur under amalgams are a real problem an need to be bonded together.

Yes: Mercury in today's dental silver amalgam fillings is entirely bound to the other metals and is completely safe. Mercury levels in the brains of people with metal fillings is exactly the same as in the brains of people who have never had a metal filling. Tooth colored fillings contain no mercury, but wear out quicker. Metal fillings are more apt to cause fractures, but last longer. It's complex

That's Complicated : A completely set amalgam filling will not release mercury in the patients mouth and is therefore safe. If elemental Mercury escapes from an amalgam capsule before it is mixed, it can be a danger to the dental staff. Amalgam scrapes released into cesspools or sewers can be an environmental hazard as they can be broken down by strong cleaning chemicals a and release Mercury. I don't use them.