Should I get a mercury-free dentist to remove my silver fillings right away?

Can you tell me if it’s urgent for me to see a mercury free dentist? I have 3 silver fillings that are 22 yrs old. I had 4 but one of them cracked my tooth and I needed to get a crown instead. My dentist didn’t really say anything about the 3 remaining fillings and he really didn’t check them. I don’t want to be negligent about it just because my dentist is. The fillings aren’t bothering me, but should I still try to be proactive and go to a mercury free dentist to have them taken out and replaced with white fillings before they start to leak mercury? Thanks. Simone.

Simone,

According to the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA, amalgam fillings are safe. They are stronger than white composite fillings and are easier to place.

But some studies link amalgam fillings to health issues. And a growing number of dentists are starting to place composite fillings only. Less removal of your natural tooth structure is required to place them. And they won’t expand and cause your teeth to fracture.

Some studies show that mercury vapor is released when you eat and drink, or when you brush your teeth. How much of the vapor can be released into your body before it will affect your health is unknown.

Amalgam fillings leak as they age. Since the ADA says the fillings are safe, you have to determine when you want them removed. If you want them replaced with composite fillings, but your dentist doesn’t see the urgency in doing so, you can visit a mercury-free dentist who will replace the fillings for you.

You can have your amalgam fillings examined for leakage and to see if they are expanding and weakening your teeth. As the fillings age, they are failing to provide your teeth with maximum protection. If you’ve had them for 22 years, they will need to be replaced soon anyway. Make an informed decision after you’ve had your amalgam fillings examined.

This post is sponsored by Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Collins.