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?

mercury in dental amalgam behaves differently from the methylmercury found in certain fish, amalgam fillings can release small amounts of elemental mercury vapor.

The central scientific question has never been simply whether mercury is present.

It is whether the amount released from dental fillings creates a meaningful health risk.

And that distinction is essential.
Europe Took a Major Step Against Mercury Fillings

On January 1, 2025, the European Union introduced a broad prohibition on the use of dental amalgam for dental treatment.

Certain countries were allowed a temporary transition period until June 30, 2026, while narrow exceptions remain for patients