Have you ever been told you still have “silver fillings” in your mouth? Those old-school fillings — technically called dental amalgam — contain mercury. The same mercury you’ve probably heard of can be toxic. That naturally raises a big question: Should you have them removed for your health?
Whether you’re concerned about safety, curious about what’s in your mouth, or wondering if removing your fillings is the right move, you’ll find everything you need to know right here.
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What are mercury fillings (dental amalgam)?
Mercury fillings, often referred to as silver fillings, are a type of dental material used to restore decayed teeth. They’ve been around for over 150 years and are known for their durability.
These fillings are made from a mix (or “amalgam”) of metals — about 50% mercury, combined with silver, tin, and copper. Sounds high-tech, but the mercury part is where we start to get concerned.
Why was mercury used in fillings in the first place?
Basically, mercury made the mixture in fillings pliable and fast-setting. In the early days of dentistry, mercury amalgam was revolutionary. It was affordable, strong, and could withstand chewing forces for years. For many, it felt like a miracle fix — until questions about mercury’s health impact started to arise.
What exactly is in a silver filling?
Silver fillings aren’t just silver. Here’s what they typically include:
- Mercury (50%)
- Silver (~22-32%)
- Tin (~14%)
- Copper (~8%)
- Other trace metals
Are mercury fillings really dangerous?
Mercury is toxic in large amounts, but the kind in fillings is bound with other metals, making it less likely to enter your bloodstream. Still, mercury vapor can be released over time, especially when you chew, grind your teeth, or drink hot liquids.
How mercury exposure can affect your body
Mercury exposure has been linked to a number of health issues, especially in large amounts. Here’s what it can potentially affect:
- Nervous system and brain function
- Kidney health
- Immune system
- Mood and memory
- Pregnancy and fetal development
While most healthy adults can handle small amounts, people with sensitivities or underlying conditions may be at greater risk.
What do experts and dental organizations say?
The American Dental Association (ADA) and FDA maintain that dental amalgam is safe for most people. However, the FDA has recently stated that certain high-risk groups should avoid or reconsider mercury fillings, including:
- Pregnant or nursing women
- Children under 6
- People with kidney issues
- Those with mercury allergies
Who should be concerned about mercury fillings?
You might want to pay closer attention if you:
- Have multiple mercury fillings
- Grind or clench your teeth
- Have a weakened immune system
- Are planning to become pregnant
- Have autoimmune diseases
- Have symptoms you can’t explain
A dental evaluation and mercury toxicity test (if recommended) may help you decide your next steps.
Signs that it may be time to remove a mercury filling
Still wondering if your old filling needs to go? Here are some signs:
- Cracked or damaged filling
- Metal taste in your mouth
- Tooth sensitivity or discomfort
- Gum irritation around the filled tooth
- A general concern about exposure
Even if you don’t have symptoms, your dentist might suggest replacing it if it’s failing structurally.
How mercury fillings are removed safely
Removing a mercury filling is a highly technical process. If done incorrectly, it can release more mercury vapor than just leaving it in place. That’s why at Choices in Dentistry, we follow strict safety procedures to protect both you and ourselves.
Our office in Chicago is S.M.A.R.T.-certified, which stands for Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique. This certification is provided by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) and ensures that every step of the removal process follows science-backed safety guidelines.
Here’s what’s involved in a S.M.A.R.T.-certified removal:
- Rubber dams to isolate the tooth and prevent debris from entering your mouth
- High-volume suction to capture mercury vapor and particles
- Oxygen masks for patients to avoid inhaling any airborne mercury
- Protective barriers for the dental team
- Air filtration and vacuum systems to remove any contaminated air from the room
- Special cleanup protocols to safely handle all materials after the procedure
By choosing a S.M.A.R.T.-certified dentist, you’re making sure your mercury filling is removed in a way that protects your overall health.
What are the alternatives to mercury fillings?
If you’re thinking of swapping out your mercury fillings, you have great options:
- Composite resin – Tooth-colored, durable, and mercury-free
- Ceramic or porcelain – Natural-looking and strong
- Gold – Pricey, but long-lasting
These materials look better and come with zero mercury and blend in beautifully with your natural smile.
Is mercury filling removal right for you?
Whether or not you remove your fillings is a personal decision best made with your dentist’s input. But now that you understand what’s at stake — and what your options are — you’re in a much better position to make a confident choice.
If you’re considering safe mercury filling removal, our team at Choices in Dentistry is here to help. Our S.M.A.R.T.-certified dentists are trained in the safest techniques to protect your health every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today and let’s talk about what’s right for you and your smile.