Risks of Dental Amalgam

Denver Dentist Dental Crown Risks of Dental Amalgam Dentist Highlands Ranch

Over the years there has been much controversy regarding the safety of dental amalgam or what you know as silver fillings. This controversy revolves around the fact that dental amalgam is made by combining silver and mercury. The concern or issue of this dental material revolves around the inclusion of the mercury in its formulary.

Amalgam filling amalgam filling replaced with composite filling

The position of the American Dental Association has been that it is a safe material and is extremely cost effective and readily available The U.S. Food and Drug administration June 2008 opinion basically states that mercury from dental amalgam "may" be toxic to children and developing fetuses. Many dental experts have weighed in on this subject and half say that there is no proof that silver dental fillings cause harm to consumers. However, they also say there is no proof that the fillings (which are approximately one-half mercury by weight) are entirely safe.

The FDA web site states, "Dental amalgam (silver fillings) which contain mercury, may have neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of developing children and fetuses".

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In addition the web site states that "pregnant women and persons who may have a health condition that makes them more sensitive to mercury exposure, including individuals with existing high levels of mercury bioburden, should not avoid seeking dental care, but should discuss options with their health practitioner".

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Alternatives to dental amalgam (silver/mercury fillings)

Yes, there are alternatives to dental amalgam. Resin "composite" materials are made from powdered glass mixed with a resin compound. New generation dental composite are stronger than their predecessor and are much more life-like than amalgam (silver fillings). Dental amalgam starts off silver colored and with time... turns to black as the silver corrodes. A summary of the materials in common use to replace dental amalgam include:

Composite dental filling material
Porcelain dental filling
Gold dental fillingss
Hybrid laboratory processed composite/porcelain "type" materials.

The FDA currently does not recommend that you have your amalgam fillings replaced (unless the restorations shows sign of failure). They do recommend that: If you are concerned about the possible health effects of amalgam fillings, you should talk with your qualified health care practitioner"

Dr. James DeLapp and Dr. H. Candace DeLapp Highlands Ranch dentists, Parker, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, and the Greater Denver area dentist, have virtually eliminated dental amalgam from their practice. While the health concerns "may" be established at a later date... the new composite materials are significantly more esthetic and life-like! Almost without exception... our dental patients voice strong opposition to silver/black restoration and opt for the more esthetic material. All materials have their pluses and minuses... the best is the real tooth... everything else is a compromise to varying degrees.

This article can be referenced at: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/amalgams.html

Dr James DeLapp and Dr. H. Candace DeLapp are cosmetic oriented Highlands Ranch dentists who see dental patients in the Parker, Lone Tree, Castle Pines and the Greater Denver area. Please feel free to contact their office if you have any questions on cosmetic dentistry in Highlands Ranch or their surrounding communities... white fillings or improving the looks of your smile. They can be reached at (303) 694-9740.