Cosmetic dentist D. Gordon Rye of Rye Smiles for Life has devoted himself for nearly three decades to combing the art, science, and technology or dentistry with personalized care. In trying to make sure that they receive the best care possible, and maintain a healthy smile, Dr. Rye has been educating his patients on the unhealthy effects of silver fillings. Here he shares the reasons why you should swap any amalgam (silver) fillings you have for white, composite alternatives.
Risks of silver fillings
Consistent with Dr. Rye’s standpoint on the issue, the FDA has also put out a warning against the use of dental amalgams in patients with a mercury allergy. Effects of the allergy are similar to most other allergies, including itching, swelling and rashes. But even without an allergy to the element, research suggests that mercury is unhealthy for the body. The Washington State Department of Health warns that mercury, at high exposures, is known to cause irreversible damage to the developing nervous system. Common effects include various neurological dysfunctions such as tremors, changes in vision, loss of hearing, muscle coordination, loss of sensation, and difficulties with memory.
Benefits of white fillings
While D. Rye says it is unlikely that the mercury level released by the dental amalgam fillings are high enough to harm to patients, he still suggests switching over to silver-free fillings for a number of other reasons.
- They use a porcelain-like material that bonds perfectly to your teeth
- The fillings are barely visible to the eye
- Can be created to match the surrounding teeth
- Won’t expand and cause tooth damage the way silver fillings do
- Last up to 10 years
So whether you have a cavity waiting to be filled now, or have silver fillings already, Dr. Rye urges you to ask your own dentist about using tooth-colored fillings. Because, he says, the healthiest smiles are silver-free.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
