Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

International Treaty to Reduce Dental Amalgam

Friday, March 08, 2013

An international treaty has been drafted that calls for phasing out dental amalgam in order to reduce mercury pollution. Did you know that dental amalgam can be 50% mercury?

We see, and remove, lots of old mercury amalgam fillings in our patients. These old fillings are replaced with tooth colored materials that offer several benefits. First, they look nicer - no ugly black fillings. Second, no toxic mercury - healthier for our patients, for us, and for our environment.

The Minamata Convention sets a deadline for banning the manufacture of several products that contain mercury such as batteries, light bulbs and cosmetics by 2020. Dental amalgam was left off this list of banned items and instead guidelines were laid out that allow for the gradual reduction of the substance.

The reason that dental amalgam is still used is because it is a very inexpensive filling material and it is very easy,and fast, for dentists to use - this doesn't mean that it is a healthy choice however.Some countries, including Norway and Switzerland, have banned dental amalgam completely.

Find out more about healthy options for filling your cavities and replacing those old silver fillings by contacting Boca Raton dentist Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell at 561-394-9000 today.

yourdentalblog