Question: Are Silver Fillings Safe?
Answer: Silver (Amalgam) filling material contains about 50% mercury and 50% of various other metals. While there have been no conclusive studies relating the mercury in amalgam to any dangers, mercury by itself is very toxic.
With the introduction of new filling materials, amalgam is not used as often as it once was. More than 70% of all fillings today are placed in the tooth by the dentist with resin or composite materials. Amalgam has been deemed safe by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, the FDA and the US Public Health Service. Important Update - June 2008 The FDA Admits Silver Dental Fillings May Not Be Safe.
In light of this recent information, the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) still does not recommend having amalgam fillings removed and The American Dental Association continues to stand their ground that amalgam is a safe and durable filling material.
