The commission based its recommendations on a synthesis of studies published on the subject from 1997 to 2002. Some experts have long believed that the mercury that escapes from these amalgams can, over time, cause a multitude of health problems.

The report¹ mentions in particular that animal studies have shown that mercury can have a negative impact on the immune system. The impact on humans would be similar, if we are to believe the study of employees who, in the course of their work, are exposed to mercury

Other research has established that mercury accumulates and persists in the retina for years, that the thyroid gland is particularly sensitive to its effects, that the level of mercury exposure deemed safe should in fact be reduced by two-thirds and that prolonged exposure to mercury vapors can lead to chronic neurological sequelae.

The Swedish commissioners therefore recommend a rapid end to the use of traditional amalgams, in order to reduce the exposure of patients and dental health professionals to mercury, especially since valid alternatives already exist. It would also eliminate one of the main sources of environmental contamination with mercury.

However, in their report, the Commissioners clearly lean towards caution and avoid adopting an alarmist tone. They write that it is highly unlikely that all people who believe they suffer from problems related to their amalgam fillings actually do. But at the same time, they write that people who experience side effects from their amalgam fillings are unlikely to know the source of their problems.

They also do not recommend replacing all the fillings already in place, since the risks associated with the procedure would be greater than the potential side effects of the fillings.

Jean-Benoit Legault – PasseportSanté.net

D’après The Dental Material Commission — Care and Consideration; 17 septembre 2003.

1. The Dental Material Commission — Care and Consideration. www.dentalmaterial.gov.se/Mercury.pdf