Are silver/mercury metal fillings safe for kids, or should we stick with other options (composite, glass, etc)

Question

As we all know mercury is very dangerous, but since the ADA has no problem with mercury in our mouths, should I? Who do I trust? Other groups are saying don't eat too much fish with mercury. Is this any different? Is there such a thing as a safe level of mercury, and exactly how much mercury is released from dental fillings anyway.

Answer 1

I believe that silver / mercury amalgum has been proven and certified as safe....For everyone....

Answer 2

It's true that dentists around the world generally see little problem with amalgam (metal) fillings, and the recommendations generally adhere to the ADA guidelines.

As to Shannon's assertions that metal fillings cause more decay, this is an erroneous statement. Amalgam fillings have a proven track record and longevity, even when compared to composite or procelain restorations. Recurrent decays are due to many reasons, most of which signal a change (i.e. increase) in the caries risk status. In fact, I have personally see comparatively more composite and porcelain restorations fail over a similar time period.

This does not mean that composite and porcelain restorations are no good. It really depends on the indication for usage, and whether the person receiving them is motivated enough to maintain them well.

As for your question about fish with mercury, you just have to trust your local health science authority to vet the levels of toxins.

Regards,
Dental Surgeon

Answer 3

This is my final time dealing with the question. If you care to look at how I have responded then click on my name and see my previous answers to the same question. If not, then
YES, they are safe and usable in children. The small amount of mercury in alloy will not hurt children just as a little bit of fluoride will not hurt children either. Both are toxic in large amounts, but both are not found in large doses in dental materials. However, for the first time I will tell people, resins or glass ionomer fillings (tooth colored fillings) are probably just as good as alloy. Why....well baby teeth fall out so more than likely the tooth colored filling material will last the life of the tooth. Secondly, as a dentist, I can tell you that alloys require more prep (you have to make the hole big enough for the alloy so that it will be stable in the mouth) and baby teeth are small with large nerves. Because of this the resins (tooth colored fillings) are considered more conservative. There is one downside to the resins...most require a saliva free environment...and with a non-cooperative or jittery kid this can be very difficult plus they don't last as long (the other answer conserning alloys failing faster is way off)
As for the mercury, the ADA, FDA and other federal agencies all consider dental alloy as safe. SO why the argument..money...for adults silver fillings are cheaper and on average last longer...the resins look better cost more for the patient and on average do not last as long. Thats the main argument...either choice is valid...but the mercury is not a factor.
Good luck

Answer 4

Im telling you by first hand experience. Well almost, my own sister had mercury fillings when she was young. Now she is having more problems with her teeth as the area around the fillings have eroded. She is having to switch over to porcelain fillings. If only she had gone for it sooner. I dont get the fact how come most doctors say it has no problems......

Answer 5

My dentist strongly suggests porcelain or composite fillings. 1) You don't have to worry about your children getting mercury poisoning and 2) cosmetically they look more natural. I'm not certain of the exact level of mercury our bodies can handle, but wouldn't it be safer to avoid it when you can?

Also, the metal fillings tend to cause further cavity growth around the current cavity, so essentially, they postpone worse cavities. I would opt for a composite filling for you kids. Best of luck!