For generations, dentists placed silver-colored fillings in millions of teeth. But behind their familiar appearance lies a controversial ingredient: mercury. Now that Europe has largely phased them out, Americans are asking an uncomfortable question—why are they still permitted in the United States?

poisoning.

The dose, duration of exposure, individual susceptibility, and chemical form all influence risk.

For most people, current evidence has not established that exposure from intact amalgam fillings causes disease.

Still, certain groups deserve additional consideration.
Who Should Be Especially Cautious?

The FDA has identified several populations that may be more vulnerable to potential adverse effects from mercury exposure.

These include:

Pregnant women and women planning pregnancy.
Breastfeeding mothers.
Children, especially those younger than six.
People with pre-existing neurological diseases.
People with impaired kidney function.
Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to mercury or other amalgam components.

For these