28
Feb
European Union to ban use of dental mercury in children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers
Starting in July 2018, the European Union will ban the use of dental mercury in children under the age of 15, as well as in pregnant women and nursing mothers. This ban on the mercury used in amalgam dental fillings follows the ratification of the Minamata Convention by the EU in May of 2017. This international treaty aims to protect both humans and the environment from dangerous mercury emissions — including the use of mercury in amalgam dental fillings.
Why are mercury fillings dangerous?
Amalgam fillings, which have been commonly used in dentistry since the 19th century, are made up of several metals, including mercury. Mercury has been shown to make up 48-55 percent of amalgam fillings despite the fact that it is a known neurotoxin and endocrine disruptor with a wide range of negative impacts on human health.
In the past, it was thought that the mercury used in dentistry was safely contained in amalgam fillings. However, in more recent years scientists have found that the mercury used in these fillings is slowly emitted and absorbed by the body over time. In 2005 the World Health Organization stated that dental amalgam is the most common form of mercury exposure encountered by the general population.
The mercury used in a dental amalgam is not safe for anyone and is associated with a wide range of negative health problems including damage to hormones, blood cells, organs, and glands. However, it has been shown to be especially dangerous for use in certain populations including:
- Children
- Pregnant Women
- Breastfeeding Women
- Individuals with kidney disorders
- Genetically-susceptible patients
- Those with neurological conditions
- Patients exposed to other sources of mercury
- Individuals with non-mercury metals in their mouth
- Dental professionals
In addition to being harmful to overall health, dental mercury can also be detrimental to dental health for several reasons. One of the main reasons is that placing these fillings requires dentists to remove a large amount of the healthy areas of your teeth, which weakens tooth structure and can lead to even more dental work being needed in the future. Additionally, once placed, amalgam fillings have been shown to contract and expand, which can result in the cracking of teeth.
Although the United States has not yet adopted similar bans on amalgam use in dentistry, the FDA does admit that the use of mercury in these fillings poses harm to children as well as fetuses, and new metal-free alternatives are increasing in popularity across the nation.
Mercury-Free Dentistry
Fortunately, there are now safe and effective metal-free compounds that can be used in place of amalgam fillings. These alternatives offer a wonderful alternative to mercury and are better for both the dental health and overall health of patients.
Do you already have amalgam fillings? If you are worried about the negative impacts these fillings can have on your health, you should consult with a qualified health care practitioner about the safe removal of these fillings. At Nashville Restorative Dentistry, we practice the IAOMT protocol to safely remove mercury fillings, minimizing your risk or exposure to mercury vapor. We then replace these fillings with ceramic resin fillings that are free of BPA, BIS-GMA, and all metals.
If you live in Franklin, TN, or the surrounding area and are interested in learning more about mercury-free dentistry contact our office today!
We are equipped to handle the majority of your dental needs
We understand the importance of having a dentist you can trust. And that means not being sent off to a different specialist every time you need a new procedure. At Nashville Restorative Dentistry, we are equipped to handle the majority of your dental needs from cosmetic to restorative, implants to extractions. When you come to us, you are getting a dental team for life.
Share this Article
Nashville Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Ryan M. Jones
Ryan M. Jones, DDS, FAGD, focuses on delivering excellence in dental care and creating beautiful smiles, fighting disease and inflammation, using biocompatible materials, and educating patients about their scope of treatment options. He is an alumnus of Brentwood High School, the University of Tennessee (Knoxville), and the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry (Memphis). He is a graduate and mentor for the Kois Center in Seattle, a world-class post-graduate facility focusing on comprehensive patient care. He has taken the Pikos Institute (Tampa, FL) curriculum, which is focused on advanced surgical techniques. He’s also earned a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and is currently expanding his digital dentistry and Exocad knowledge in various courses.Dr. Jones is also passionate about providing for the underserved and has taken part in many dentistry-related charity and community projects.
Connect Dr. Ryan M. Jones on Linkedin
Dr. Caleb M. Estes
Caleb M. Estes, DMD, FAGD, is a dedicated professional with a strong academic background and extensive postdoctoral education. After graduating from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville and earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the SIU School of Dental Medicine, he has constantly pursued advanced training. He has earned a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry and is a graduate of the prestigious Kois Center. Before joining Nashville Restorative Dentistry, he served in the US Army as a general dentist and a Captain, deploying alongside US and NATO forces to Afghanistan in 2015. He also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program with the Army during this time.Dr. Estes’ passion is to provide excellence in clinical dentistry and patient care while using the best restorative and preventative materials available. Accomplished in both surgical and restorative dentistry, he finds great fulfillment in transforming smiles and instilling confidence in his patients.
Connect Dr. Caleb M. Estes on Linkedin
Experience excellence in dental care today.
You shouldn’t have to worry about your mouth or let unpleasant past dental experiences prevent you from living the life you want.
Reviewr Name
Virginia H.
Patient Testimonial
Issue: Severely compromised remaining natural teeth with multiple areas of decay, failing previous dental work, missing teeth, unaesthetically restored lower front implants, and extremely worn and chipped upper front teeth.
Solution: Through a detailed plan of bone grafting, implant placement, and new crowns on the remaining natural teeth – a dramatic restoration of function and cosmetic appearance was possible.
Success Stories
Why Our Patients Love Us
© 2024 Nashville Restorative Dentistry. All Rights Reserved. Powered by www.ekwa.com