Are amalgam (silver) fillings safe? Should I replace them?

Current position on amalgam safety:

FDA and ADA position: - Considered safe for adults and children 6+ - Decades of research supports safety - Mercury in amalgam is in stable form - Different from harmful mercury in fish

Reasons to keep existing amalgam: - Still functioning well - No cracks or leakage - Removal releases more mercury than leaving - Unnecessary drilling

Reasons patients choose replacement: - Cosmetic preference - Cracked or failing fillings - Decay around filling - Sensitivity - Personal preference

Safe removal protocol: - Rubber dam isolation - High-volume suction - Water cooling - Proper disposal - Minimizes any exposure

Our approach: - We use composite for new fillings - We don't push amalgam replacement - We'll replace if filling is failing - We'll replace if you request it - Safety precautions if removing

The choice to replace functioning amalgam fillings is personal. We support your decision either way.