The basic dental filling mixture was comprised of approximately 50 percent liquid mercury combined with silver and other metals. Mercury is used in amalgam fillings because it allows the filling material to be pliable as well as hardens easily on completion and is durable over time. According to Dr. Paul Gilbert, graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and longtime master practitioner of the Academy of General Dentistry, "... mercury is the most toxic, non-radioactive substance on Earth surpassed only by ... plutonium." The side effects and ensuing diseases from exposure to mercury mimic the symptoms of mercury poisoning.
Reproductive Problems
Difficulty conceiving, miscarriage, birth defects, infertility, pre-menstrual syndrome, hot flashes, early and problematic menopause are among the effects possible from exposure to mercury.
Enzymatic/Hormonal Effects
Chronic fatigue syndrome, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Grave's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, autoimmune diseases, lupus, psoriasis, endocrine disorders, leaky gut syndrome, multiple chemical sensitivities and environmental sensitivities have been blamed on material in the fillings.
Neurological Impacts
Mercury fillings have been linked to disorders related to the brain and nerve dysfunctions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, autism, memory loss, myasthenia gravis, dizziness and vertigo.
Oral Effects
Oral galvanism is an allergic reaction where an electric current is released in the mouth because the mercury-based fillings have become like a battery after exposure to saliva. This results in feelings of shocks in the teeth and throughout the mouth, especially when other metals are introduced to the mouth such as eating utensils. Among other effects in the mouth are gingivitis, periodontal disease, the need for multiple root canals, oral lichen planus and tooth loss.
Mental Changes
Psychological disorders that have been blamed on the mercury in fillings include commission of crimes of rage, a desire to kill, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression.
Respiratory Ailments
Mercury vapor is breathed in as it escapes from the fillings, and the result can be asthma, emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Reduced Vision
Mercury amalgam fillings are thought to have a role in near- and farsightedness, eye floaters and glaucoma.
Systemwide Damage
Mercury is suspected of having a role in heart disease and all forms of cancer.
