When people are looking into sources of toxins in their life, they usually take a look at areas like their food, or their homes, or their cars.  What they might not suspect is that one of the most common sources of toxins in their life may be their teeth!  Ever since the 1970’s or so, the silver amalgam fillings that have been used are being shown to release more mercury fumes than their predecessors.  It is highly suspected that the use of mercury in these fillings has been causing severe problems in the people that have them.

The FDA has revised its position on the mercury that is used in amalgam fillings; there has been some research that refers to the fact that these fillings may have a serious neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of young children and fetuses.  It is important to note that the fillings that are so very common are actually between forty to fifty percent mercury, and that when the amalgam is disrupted in any way, mercury vapor can be released.  The activities that can cause the mercury fumes to be released may be as simple as brushing teeth, chewing gum or grinding your teeth in the night.

There are a host of problems that have already been linked to the occurrence of mercury fume from this common dental technique.  Aside from the brain damage that it can cause to children, there also seems to be a link between the presence of mercury fumes and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as other neurological problems and to gastrointestinal issues as well.  Some other effects may include issues with memory or concentration, insomnia, and a host of oral disorders.

If you are concerned about this issue, you will find that in many cases, it is still an open one.  There is currently no ban on the use of these fillings, but there is an investigation currently ongoing, conducted by the Food and Drug Administration in a search for more information on the matter.  Canadians are in the process of starting a major class action lawsuit against the government for the failure to warn them of the danger of these fillings.  Some people who do suspect that they suffer from the effects of mercury poisoning, have the fillings removed and replaced with resin.

One thing that you can do is find a dentist who does not use this type of filling.  While the resin replacement may have hormone issues, there are many people who see it as an acceptable alternative.  Remember to consider what your options are the next time that you go to the dentist and make your decision with as much information as you can get.