Safety of Amalgam

Is Amalgam Safe?

Yes; despite the alarmist reports in the media.

Due to the presence of mercury (a known toxin) in the material, a controversy has raged for many decades both inside and outside the profession, regarding its safety. There is a very small percentage of the population that have a genuine hypersensitivity to amalgam (often to one of the other metals) but this is exceedingly rare. For these persons who demonstrate any heavy metal hypersensitivity, it is recommended that amalgam be replaced with a suitable substitute.

Despite extensive worldwide research there is still no direct evidence that amalgam is detrimental to health. Quite simply, if there was we would not be using it at all at Blockhouse Bay Dental Centre. However, we are placing far fewer amalgams, not because of safety concerns, but rather owing to the availability of better alternatives such as composites and other materials.

Learn more about Composites

Back to Routine Fillings