Silver Mercury fillings (amalgam) continue to be controversial and its ban has yet to happen. Just recently, the FDA specified that mercury levels can be toxic and cause brain, liver, and lung injuries. At the same time the ADA maintained its stance that silver mercury fillings are safe to use and can be used in dentistry. The irony is that new regulations and safe guards were issued to dentist who use amalgam on proper disposal of the leftover filling material. There are even new companies making systems to properly dispose of this! These regulations are to protect the environment and individuals from mercury toxicity.
How insane is this? Essentially it is safe to put amalgam in ones mouth but not safe to put the leftover filling material in the trash can!
There is really no reason to even consider using amalgam any more.  There are wonderful, safe, and stronger materials in dentistry today. The amalgam fillings do more harm than good to the teeth and health. Technology has rendered the amalgam filling material obsolete. So regardless of any FDA or ADA ruling there is no reason to consider using this material.
If you have any questions about Houston Cosmetic Dentistry or a Houston Cosmetic Dentist, please feel free to contact our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF, 713-668-2289
