Do silver fillings release mercury? Are they Safe

The short answers are yes and maybe. 
The most highly controversial issues in dentistry are the safety of Mercury and Fluoride, both of which can be toxic. 
The Mercury in silver fillings is in the news again as the FDA is reviewing it's position on safety of silver fillings.

What is clear is that mercury is most dangerous to the fetus and young children as it is highly toxic to the nervous system. The nervous system is undergoing it's greatest growth in the early developmental years.  What is unclear is that Mercury seems to be highly toxic to some people for either genetic or other environmental reasons. Perhaps diet or other factors are present giving some individuals less resistance to the toxic effects, or the inability to eliminate mercury naturally.

In any case the most dangerous forms of Mercury to the general population are Mercury vapor from elemental (silver fillings), and and methyl Mercury from seafood.

When it comes to silver  fillings, the current FDA position is that they are safe for all except pregnant women and children under age 6.

I believe there are safer and better restorative materials, and have not placed silver fillings since 1998.

I am currently researching the latest on Mercury release from silver fillings, as well as other sources of Mercury exposure along with its potential effects on the body.

 I will provide much more detailed  information in the near future.

Your comments are welcome.

Phillip C. Neal DDS
Crystal Lake Dental Associates
280 b Memorial Court
Crystal Lake, Illinois  60014
815 459 2202
www.DrNeal.com