Why We Say No to Mercury Fillings — and Yes to Your Health
At Atlantic Coast Dentistry, our priority is simple: protect your health with safe, modern, evidence‑based care. That’s why we do not use mercury fillings — and we never will.
Many people have heard the term “silver fillings.” It sounds harmless, but the name is misleading. These fillings are actually made with mercury, a metal that can affect the brain, kidneys, and overall health. Mercury is a toxin, and we don’t believe it belongs in anyone’s mouth.
What Are Mercury Fillings?
Mercury fillings (also called amalgam fillings) are made from a blend of metals. About half of the material is mercury; the rest is silver, tin, and copper. They were widely used for decades because they were inexpensive and durable — but modern research and modern materials have changed the standard of care.
What we now know:
- Mercury can slowly release over time, and the highest exposure happens during placement or removal.
- Everyday actions like chewing, brushing, or grinding can release small amounts of mercury vapor.
- That vapor can enter the body and may pose greater risks for children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions.
Some organizations still consider amalgam “safe for most people,” but we take a more cautious, protective approach. Your health is too important to gamble with. The Florida Department of Health has recently acknowledged potential risks, and the European Union has fully banned mercury fillings. In the U.S., use has already dropped from about 21% of fillings in 2017 to roughly 4% today — and continues to decline.
Why Insurance Companies Still Push Mercury Fillings
Insurance companies often prefer the cheapest option, not the safest one. Mercury fillings cost less to produce, so many plans try to reimburse at the lower rate.
That can mean:
- Only partial coverage for safer, tooth‑colored fillings
- A difference between what insurance wants to pay and the actual cost of modern materials
We understand how frustrating that is. But we won’t let an insurance company decide what goes into your body. Our responsibility is to you — not to their spreadsheets.
What We Use Instead
We use advanced, mercury‑free materials that are:
- Safe for your body
- Strong and long‑lasting
- Matched to your natural tooth color for a seamless look
These materials cost more to manufacture, but they protect your health and blend beautifully with your smile.
We’re On Your Side
Dental care can be a big investment, and we’re always transparent about costs, coverage, and options. We’ll walk you through what your insurance includes — and what it doesn’t — so you can make informed decisions without surprises.
But one thing we won’t do is compromise your safety to save a few dollars. Our job is to advocate for you, even when that means pushing back against outdated insurance policies.
If you have questions about mercury fillings, safer alternatives, or how your insurance handles them, we’re here to help. Your health matters — and we’re proud to provide care that reflects that.