Silver Mercury fillings are one of the most controversial topics in dentistry today. For years these fillings were the typical choice for restoring teeth. Today many dentists still choose these types of fillings for their patients. In our office we have eliminated these types of fillings from our list of services for the following reasons:

1. Silver Mercury fillings are unsightly. They turn teeth black over time.
2. Silver mercury fillings expand and actually crack teeth resulting in the need for potentially extensive treatment.
3. Mercury escapes from fillings in the form of vapor created by chewing. It then enters the bloodstream and is delivered to all parts of the body, including the brain.
4. Mercury is the most toxic non-radioactive element on earth.
5. The typical adult carries ten amalgam fillings containing about 5 grams of mercury.
6. The use of mercury amalgams has been banned and is on a scheduled phase-out in Germany, Austria, Denmark, and Sweden.
7. A major manufacturing company of silver mercury fillings, has recently begun cautioning against the placement of these fillings in pregnant and nursing mothers, women under 45 years old, children under the age of 7, and people with kidney disease.
8. According to the American Dental Association these types of fillings are safe for placements in teeth. However, because of the potential danger and recommendation of some physicians, we have not used silver mercury fillings since 1985.