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A: Over the years there has been some concern as to the safety of amalgam (silver) fillings. An amalgam is a blend of copper, silver, tin and zinc, bound by elemental mercury. Dentists have used this blended metal to fill teeth for more than 100 years. The controversy is due to claims that the exposure to the vapor and minute particles from the mercury can cause a variety of health problems.

Although few studies indicate that there are measurable health risks to patients who have silver fillings, we do know that mercury is a toxic material when we are exposed to it.  For instance, we have been warned to limit the consumption of certain types of fish that carry high levels of mercury in them.  When we remove mercury containing fillings in our office we use extra precausions to protect both you and ourselves from the mercury which is released.

There are numerous options to silver fillings, including composite (tooth-colored), porcelain, and gold fillings. We encourage you to discuss these options with us so you can determine which is the best option for you.