A dentist's appointment this morning got me thinking about a dental concern that affects millions of people—often without them even realizing it. And the consequences can extend far beyond your teeth and gums.
I'm talking about amalgam fillings.
You may know them as "silver fillings." For more than 150 years, they've been one of the most common ways to restore cavities. But a long history of use does not automatically mean something is safe.
In fact, amalgam fillings are approximately 50% mercury.
And if you're wondering why that's a concern, keep reading.
What Mercury Really Is
Mercury (Hg) is a naturally occurring chemical element, but there's nothing harmless about it.
It is classified as:
- A carcinogen (a substance that may contribute to cancer development)
- A mutagen (a substance that can damage cellular DNA)
- A potent neurotoxin (a toxin that can harm the brain and nervous system)
Few substances can affect as many systems in the body as mercury can.
Why Mercury Is Especially Dangerous
One of the most troubling characteristics of mercury is that it bioaccumulates.
In simple terms, your body doesn't efficiently eliminate it. Instead, mercury can build up in tissues over time, meaning even small exposures may become significant after years of accumulation.
Research has linked mercury exposure to a wide variety of health concerns, including:
- Damage to enzymes and proteins that are essential for healthy cellular function
- Nervous system dysfunction
- Kidney and gastrointestinal problems
- Fatigue and poor concentration
- Memory issues
- Hearing and vision disturbances
- Ringing in the ears
- Depression and mood changes
- Neurological and muscular disorders
- Infertility
- Cardiovascular disease
- Suppression of healthy immune function
- Increased risk of autoimmune conditions
Mercury can also cross the placenta during pregnancy, potentially affecting fetal development and neurological health.
Here's an interesting historical fact: the phrase "Mad as a Hatter" originated in the 1800s because hat makers frequently used mercury during the felt-making process. Many developed significant neurological and behavioral changes from chronic exposure.
A Dangerous Toxin—But It's "Safe" in Your Teeth?
Despite ongoing debate within conventional dentistry, mercury remains one of the most toxic substances humans commonly encounter.
One of the biggest concerns with amalgam fillings is that the mercury doesn't remain locked inside the tooth.
Every time someone with amalgam fillings chews food, chews gum, drinks hot beverages, clenches their jaw, grinds their teeth, or even undergoes a routine dental cleaning, small amounts of mercury vapor can be released.
That vapor can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, including the:
- Brain
- Nervous system
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Other tissues and organs
Over time, mercury tends to accumulate in these areas, where it can contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular damage.
As a result, some of the earliest symptoms associated with mercury burden may include:
- Brain fog
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbances
Many people assume that because their fillings were placed decades ago, any risk has long since passed.
Unfortunately, that's not the case.
Older amalgam fillings still contain mercury and can continue releasing vapor throughout their lifespan.
Get on the Path to Safety
If you currently have amalgam fillings, it may be worthwhile to discuss heavy metal testing with your healthcare provider.
It's important to understand that standard blood testing doesn't always provide an accurate picture of mercury burden. In many cases, a urine heavy metals challenge test offers a more comprehensive assessment.
This type of testing typically involves:
- Taking an oral chelating agent such as DMSA
- Collecting urine over a specified period (often six hours)
- Submitting the sample for laboratory analysis
If elevated mercury levels are found, many people choose to have their amalgam fillings replaced with mercury-free composite materials.
However, proper removal is critical.
When amalgam fillings are drilled out incorrectly, mercury exposure can temporarily increase. That's why special precautions and protocols should be used during removal.
Fortunately, many dentists specialize in mercury-safe dentistry.
Here are three resources that can help you locate a qualified practitioner:
Holistic Dental Association | Find a Holistic Dentist
Mercury-Free Dentists, Services & Organizations | ToxicTeeth.org
If your current dentist strongly insists that amalgams are completely harmless, it may be worth seeking a second opinion from a mercury-free practice.
Fight Back and Support Your Body's Natural Detoxification
While removing the source of exposure is important, supporting your body's natural detoxification systems matters too.
1. Focus on a Nutrient-Dense Diet
Whole foods provide the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber your body needs to help process and eliminate toxins.
Aim to regularly include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Quality proteins
- Eggs
- Fish
- Full-fat dairy
- Whole grains
Adequate fiber is especially important because it helps bind and eliminate waste products through the digestive tract.
If you're concerned about nutritional gaps, a high-quality multivitamin can help provide foundational support.
One of my favorite options is Super Core Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Formula, which delivers a broad spectrum of essential nutrients to support overall wellness and healthy detoxification pathways.
2. Support Healthy Digestion
The digestive tract plays a major role in removing heavy metals and other toxins from the body.
Unfortunately, many adults struggle with digestive inefficiencies that can interfere with this process.
Common signs may include:
- Heartburn
- Gas and bloating
- Constipation
- Feeling overly full after meals
One frequently overlooked contributor is insufficient digestive enzyme production.
This is especially common in individuals over age 50, those who have had gallbladder or gastric surgery, or people who regularly use acid-reducing medications.
A comprehensive digestive enzyme formula such as Digestizol Max can help support more complete food breakdown, nutrient absorption, digestive comfort, and healthy elimination.
With its blend of 15 plant-derived enzymes, Digestizol Max helps support efficient digestion while promoting the regular bowel movements that are essential for carrying toxins out of the body.
3. Consider Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is a specialized treatment designed to help remove heavy metals from the body.
It is most commonly administered through intravenous (IV) therapy under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.
Because chelation is more commonly utilized in integrative and functional medicine settings, finding an experienced provider may require a little research.
One excellent place to begin is:
ACAM Search Types - American College for Advancement in Medicine (ACAM)
If you're located in the New York metropolitan area, my personal physician, Dr. John Salerno, has extensive experience with chelation therapy and heavy metal detoxification.
I personally underwent IV chelation treatments between 2010 and 2011 following amalgam removal, and I'm pleased to report that my mercury levels have remained low while continuing the supportive measures discussed above.
4. Support Liver Health with Milk Thistle
Your liver serves as your body's primary detoxification organ, making liver support an important consideration when addressing toxic burden.
Milk thistle has long been valued for its ability to support healthy liver function and antioxidant activity.
There are many quality products available, but two consistently reliable brands are Thorne and Life Extension.
The Bottom Line
Mercury is not a substance to take lightly.
If you currently have amalgam fillings—or had them for many years—it may be worthwhile to explore testing, seek guidance from a mercury-safe dental professional, and support your body's natural detoxification processes.
Small steps taken today may help protect your long-term health for years to come.
To your health,
Sherry Brescia
