Danger Lurking in Your Mouth: The Truth About Amalgam Fillings
Jun 04, 2024 11:59AM ● By Jeaniesa Santiano
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. This study definitively links amalgam fillings to increased mercury levels in the blood, raising serious concerns about the potential health risks for those with multiple “silver” fillings.
THE HIDDEN RISK IN YOUR 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 of mercury. 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 startling discovery underscores the need for a closer examination of the materials used in dental restorations.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE FINDINGS
The University of Georgia study analyzed data from over 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 (John) 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 PREVALENCE OF AMALGAM FILLINGS
The use of amalgam fillings is widespread. In the United Kingdom, a dental health survey found that 90 percent of adults and two-thirds of young adults aged 16-24 have at least one filling, with an average of seven fillings per adult. In the United States, 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.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
The revelations about mercury in amalgam fillings raise an important question: Should you rush to your 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 who is not only mercury-free but also mercury-safe.
The Holistic Dental Center of NJ is one of the few practices accredited by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). They follow stringent protocols to ensure the safe removal of amalgam fillings, minimizing the risk of mercury exposure to their patients. “Being mercury-free and mercury-safe are two different things. Don’t be fooled by anyone who advertises mercury-free dentistry; it doesn’t mean that they are also mercury-safe,” says the team at the Holistic Dental Center of NJ. The most significant exposure to mercury vapors occurs when fillings are placed or removed. Therefore, it is vital to choose a dental center that takes the necessary precautions to protect your health during the removal process.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP TOWARDS HOLISTIC DENTAL HEALTH
For those concerned about the dangers of mercury exposure from amalgam fillings, the Holistic Dental Center of NJ offers a safe and effective solution. As an accredited member of the IAOMT, the Holistic Dental Center ensures that you will be protected from mercury exposure during the removal of your fillings. Their holistic approach to dentistry focuses not just on removing mercury but also on safeguarding your overall health.
To encourage you to take the first step towards a healthier mouth, we are offering a special promotion:
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Don’t let the hidden dangers of amalgam fillings compromise your health. Call the Holistic Dental Center of NJ for your amalgam removal consultation and begin your journey to a mercury-safe smile today.
Location: 91 Millburn Ave, Milburn. For information and to schedule an appointment, call 973-457-4688, and visit HolisticDentalCenterNJ.comSee ad, page 3.