Controversies Regarding The Use Of Dental Amalgam

Dental amalgam is the commonly used dental restorative material used for dental fillings first introduced in France in the early 1800s. It contains a mixture of mercury with at least one other metal. Amalgam has been the restoration of choice for many years due to its low cost, ease of application, strength, durability, and bacteriostatic effects. However, according to cosmetic dentistry beverly hillsspecialists, because of several factors which affected its success, the use of amalgam as a restorative dental material have declined since then.

Factors include its detrimental health effects, aesthetics, and environmental pollution. Specialists from cosmetic dentistry beverly hillscenters have stated that, with regards to aesthetics, the metallic color does not blend very well with tooth structure. Also, there are cosmetic concerns, especially when used on front teeth, which can be addressed using alternative dental materials such as dental composite resins. According to cosmetic dentistry beverly hillscenters, other grave factor that contributes to its decline is the controversy of its toxicity.

Toxicity Controversy over Dental Amalgams

Scientists agree that mercury amalgam fillings expose the bearers to a daily dose of mercury, but the level and effects of the chronic exposure are disputed. In the 1990s, several governments evaluated the effects of dental amalgam and concluded that the most likely health effects would be due to hypersensitivity or allergy. Germany, Austria, and Canada recommended against placing amalgam in certain individuals such as pregnant women, children, those with renal dysfunction, and those with an allergy to metals.

However, from reviewing medical literature, the World Health Organization states mercury levels in biomarkers such as urine, blood, or hair do not represent levels in critical organs and tissues. Additionally, Gattineni et al. found that mercury levels do not correlate with the number or severity of symptoms. It concluded that there was not enough evidence to support or refute many of the other claims such as increased risk of autoimmune disorders, but stated that broad and nonspecific illnesses attributed to dental amalgams are not supported by the data.

The American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs has also concluded that both amalgam and composite materials are considered safe and effective for tooth restoration. In addition to this, a study has stated that amalgam fillings pose no personal health risk, and that replacement by non-amalgam fillings is not indicated. Recent randomized clinical trials have found no evidence of neurological harm or deleterious renal effects associated with use of amalgam in children after examining a period of 5-7 years following treatment.

Anne Fields, currently working as an assistant professor, has been presently active in the dental organizations over the United States. She has attained credibility and high respect for her vast experience as being one of the top 25 speakers these days. She also writes articles about proper dental hygene in her free time.