Mercury Dental Fillings: Settlement Stirs Concern
The FDA has recently settled a lawsuit with Moms Against Mercury, and has set a deadline of July 28, 2009 for the reclassification of amalgam fillings. The reclassification would not change the product itself, but it would make the public more aware of the benefits and risks of amalgam dental work and would most likely include a warning label informing the public of the mercury content.
Amalgam is a silver-colored material used in cavity fillings. The filling is roughly 50% mercury and the other half is a mixture of tin, silver, copper, zinc and other metals. This type of filling is a less expensive and longer lasting alternative to composite or porcelain fillings.
According to information issued by the FDA, "dental amalgams contain mercury, which may have neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of developing children and fetuses." Furthermore, "pregnant women and persons who may have a health condition that makes them more sensitive to mercury exposure, including individuals with existing high levels of mercury bioburden, should not avoid seeking dental care, but should discuss options with their health practitioner."
Mercury vapor is released during placement and removal, as well as during chewing. Exposure to mercury has been linked to brain and kidney damage.
The FDA is not recommending at this time that patients have their amalgam fillings replaced.
If you have any concerns about the health effects of amalgam fillings, you should speak with your dentist or health care provider.
The American Dental Association has issued a response to the settlement by reassuring the public that "dental amalgam remains a safe, affordable, and durable cavity filling choice for dental patients."
Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we posted an entry entitled, Amalgam Tooth Fillings Containing Mercury Pose No Developmental Threat To Children: New Study. This article was based on a study performed in the European Union which tracked children's neurological development and status over a period of 7 years. The study was comprised of 507 children between the ages of 8 to 12 who had either amalgam or resin fillings. The study did not find any significant neurological differences between the two groups.
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