FDA: Possible Risk From Dental Fillings

Washington - The FDA has issued a warning of dental fillings with mercury. The amalgams may pose health risk to those with weakened immune system.

Mercury is known to cause numerous serious diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, brain and kidney damage. Most of teeth fillings currently available are mercury based. Previously FDA did not have any reasonable basis that the amalgams are posing health risk, but several consumer advocacy groups, such as Moms Against Mercury, urged FDA to issue the warning.

Finally, FDA warned the public of health complications that mercury can cause. It is known that mercury especially affects those with weakened immune system. FDA doesn’t recommend that those who already have the filling should remove them, but the agency urges that pregnant women, children, and those with diseases should consult a dentist before choosing a tooth filling type. In July 2009 FDA will issue new rules for mercury based amalgams.