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?

of Health and Human Services announced another significant development.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services encouraged state Medicaid programs to restrict or eliminate coverage for dental amalgam procedures and consider incentives for mercury-free alternatives.

This was not a nationwide ban.

States still retain authority over their Medicaid coverage decisions.

Nevertheless, the announcement signaled growing federal interest in reducing mercury-containing dental restorations.

According to dental insurance claims data discussed by the American Dental Association, amalgam accounted for approximately 6.2% of paid restorative procedures in a 2024 commercial claims analysis.

That suggests the material has already become a relatively small part of