For many years, mercury-based amalgam fillings have been the standard of care in dental practices worldwide. The American Dental Association (ADA) maintains that these fillings are safe, but recent research from the University of Georgia challenges this long-held belief, definitively linking amalgam fillings to increased mercury levels in the blood and raising serious concerns about the potential health risks for those with multiple “silver” fillings.

Mercury exposure is a well-documented health hazard, known to cause a variety of issues including brain, heart, lung and immune system problems. While we can be exposed to mercury through certain foods and environments, dental amalgam fillings represent a significant, yet often overlooked source. According to recent research, adults with more than eight amalgam fillings have 150 percent more mercury in their blood compared to those without any fillings. This discovery underscores the need for a closer examination of the materials used in dental restorations.

The University of Georgia study analyzed data from more than 14,000 patients, exploring the relationship between amalgam fillings and various types of mercury in the body, including total mercury, inorganic mercury and the highly toxic methyl mercury. The findings revealed a direct correlation between the number of amalgam fillings and increased mercury levels in the blood. Notably, methyl mercury was found to be harmful even at low levels, posing a significant risk to overall health.

Dr. Xiaozhong Yu, co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of understanding mercury’s toxic effects, stating, “As toxicologists, we know that mercury is poison, but it all depends on the dose. So, if you have one dental filling, maybe it’s OK. But if you have more than eight dental fillings, the potential risk for adverse effects is higher.”

The use of amalgam fillings is widespread. In the UK, a dental health survey found that 90 percent of adults and two-thirds of young adults aged 16 to24 have at least one filling, with an average of seven fillings per adult. In the U.S., the average American has three dental fillings, with a quarter of the population having 11 or more. Given these statistics, the potential for widespread mercury exposure is significant.

The revelations about mercury in amalgam fillings raise an important question about whether we should rush to the dentist to have them removed. The answer requires careful consideration. Removing amalgam fillings can itself be a source of mercury exposure if not done correctly. Therefore, it is crucial to seek out a dentist that is not only mercury-free, but also mercury-safe.

Vladimir Gashinsky, DDS, AIAOMT, CND, CNC, is a holistic/biological dentist at The Holistic Dental Center of NJ, located at 91 Millburn Ave., in Millburn. For appointments and more information, call 973-457-4244 or visit HolisticDentalCenterNJ.com.