FDA: Possible Risk From Dental Fillings

To Settle Lawsuit, FDA Now Says Mercury From Fillings Might Pose Risk to Some

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Kieburtz notes that panel members also agreed that there was no cause for alarm and said there was no reason for pregnant women or others to have their dental fillings removed.

"To the best of my knowledge, there is no clinical evidence in humans that dental amalgams have led to harm," Kieburtz says. "Is there a theoretical reason to suspect harm? Yes. There is a rationale for concern, but no evidence there is harm. So there is a theoretical concern and a lack of evidence and that has led to a precautionary rule."

Indeed, clinical studies suggest that dental fillings cause no harm. But because millions and millions of children and pregnant women receive the fillings, even rare events would affect thousands of people.

Amalgam fillings are made from liquid mercury mixed with a powder containing silver, tin, copper, zinc, and other metals. It was once thought that the mercury in fillings was permanently trapped in the amalgam. Not any more.

When people chew, the fillings emit mercury vapor that is absorbed by the body. Even for people with lots of fillings, it's a small amount of mercury.

But since mercury is toxic even at very low levels, there's growing concern that the mercury in fillings could be the straw that breaks the camel's back for people with other mercury exposures. And dental professionals are routinely exposed to the vapors.

Even now, the FDA does not recommend that people have their fillings removed. But the agency does say that people concerned about the possible health effects of dental fillings should talk with their "qualified health care practitioner."

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You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily, but you're well on your way to making a positive impact on your teeth and gums. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for all 7 days!

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SOURCES:

American Dental Association, Healthy People 2010

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