The Risk Involved in Amalgam Fillings

Amalgam is a material that has been widely used as tooth fillings for over a century without much doubt on its safety. Around three years ago, however, scientific findings caused the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reclassify amalgams from a no-risk Class I medical device to Class II (more risk). The reason for this is that the mercury content in amalgam, although minimal, is expected to gradually be released as the filling is exposed to different substances and constant vibrations in the mouth.