Amalgam and Mercury in Dental Fillings – Risks and Safe Alternatives
For more than 150 years, dental amalgam was one of the most common materials used in dentistry. It was valued for being durable and inexpensive, but its mercury content has always raised concerns. Today, it is well established that mercury can be released from fillings and absorbed by the body, potentially leading to various health issues—especially in vulnerable individuals.
What Is Amalgam?
Amalgam is a mixture of metals, about 50% of which is mercury, combined with silver, tin, and copper. Mercury in these fillings is not fully inert—it evaporates and can be absorbed by the body. Research has shown that people with more than 8 amalgam fillings have around 150% higher blood mercury levels compared to those without such fillings.
Although mercury levels measured in blood, urine, or saliva among patients with amalgam fillings are usually below toxic thresholds (e.g., <4 μg/l in urine), its long-term accumulation can negatively affect health.
Health Problems and Symptoms Caused by Mercury in Amalgam
Mercury primarily affects the nervous system, kidneys, and immune system, and may trigger allergic reactions or worsen chronic conditions.
1. Neurological Disorders
Chronic exposure to mercury vapor may cause:
- memory and concentration problems,
- insomnia and chronic fatigue,
- hand tremors, anxiety, and depression,
- impaired coordination,
- personality changes and cognitive decline.
2. Kidney Diseases
Mercury accumulates in the kidneys, leading to tissue damage, reduced filtration, and—in severe cases—chronic kidney failure.
3. Immune and Allergic Reactions
Amalgam may trigger:
- chronic inflammation of the oral mucosa,
- contact dermatitis,
- skin rashes and other allergic reactions.
4. Neurodegenerative Diseases
Studies suggest a link between amalgam fillings and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in women. Higher levels of amyloid have been found in the brains of individuals exposed to mercury.
5. Other Symptoms
Common complaints related to mercury exposure include headaches, nausea, fainting, and persistent fatigue.
6. Risks for Children and Pregnant Women
Mercury exposure is especially dangerous during pregnancy and early childhood, as it can disrupt the neurological development of the fetus or child, leading to long-term cognitive and developmental issues.
Who Is Most at Risk?
While mercury levels from fillings are considered safe for most adults, certain groups face a significantly higher risk:
- children,
- pregnant women,
- patients with kidney or neurological diseases,
- individuals allergic to metals.
In these cases, the use of amalgam is strongly discouraged.
What Are the Alternatives?
Modern dentistry offers safe and effective alternatives to amalgam:
- Composite resins – tooth-colored, mercury-free, and widely used,
- Glass ionomer cements – often applied in children’s teeth or as temporary fillings; may contain small amounts of aluminum, but at levels far below toxicological concern,
- Ceramic restorations – durable, biocompatible, and highly aesthetic solutions for more advanced dental work.
Even in worst-case scenarios, the aluminum released from glass ionomer fillings amounts to only 0.5% of the daily recommended limit, making it essentially negligible.
Amalgam Ban
Awareness of the risks has led to significant policy changes: since January 2025, the use of dental amalgam has been completely banned in the European Union. In the United States, restrictions already apply to vulnerable groups, and the material is being gradually phased out.
Conclusion
Amalgam fillings, despite their long history and durability, pose health risks due to continuous mercury exposure. This exposure can lead to neurological problems, kidney damage, allergic reactions, and possibly contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Fortunately, modern dentistry provides safe alternatives such as composites, glass ionomers, and ceramics, which not only protect against mercury exposure but also offer improved aesthetics and functionality. With amalgam now banned in the EU, patients can feel more confident in choosing safer, mercury-free dental care.