Potential health effects of amalgam fillings: a structured literature review

Abstract

Recently, there have been health and environmental concerns placed on mercury (Hg) and mercury containing compounds. This is because mercury can be toxic even at very low levels, and can accumulate in living organisms. Nonetheless, mercury has widespread uses and is often a component of many things, including dental fillings. A literature review was conducted to answer the following research question: Does mercury exposure from dental amalgam-fillings produce visibly toxic effects on the body? Two databases, SCOPUS and PubMed were used to identify and obtain all related articles published within the last fifteen years. Thirty-one relevant pieces of literature were found within the global context. The literature review focused on the general population rather than a specific age group. Studies that qualified for the literature review include those that contained the relevant information in English about: the effects of mercury on the body as a result of amalgam-filling surfaces; mercury concentrations in individuals with amalgam-fillings; amalgam-filling risk assessments; and mercury concentration thresholds prior to causing adverse effects. The study focused on toxicity levels of mercury exposure caused by dental amalgam-filling in the general population to infer if there were potential health risks. We limited our literature review to journals, articles, and reviews that were easily accessible and free. Overall, studies indicated a definitive increase in mercury levels in individuals with amalgam fillings, but there was no direct link made to adverse health outcomes.