Mercury Fillings and Alzheimer's

Dental fillings are commonly used in the process of tooth restoration. These fillings provide structure and integrity to a tooth that has suffered decay or damage. Fillings often use mercury as part of the amalgam or composite material. Much controversy has arisen over whether the mercury in dental amalgams is safe.

High levels of mercury are toxic and can seriously affect the brain and kidneys. People with mercury amalgam fillings have more mercury in their bodies. This added mercury is believed to put individuals at greater risk for mercury poisoning. As the mercury is absorbed by the body, it becomes neurotoxic when it enters the brain. This neurotoxicity is believed by some to be directly linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have found elevated levels of mercury in the autopsies of Alzheimer’s individuals. It is believed mercury’s effects on other parts of the central nervous system may include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

In July of 2009, the Food and Drug Administration issued a final regulation on dental amalgams. In the release, the FDA said that the levels of mercury in dental amalgam fillings were not high enough to cause harm in patients. A 1999 study conducted autopsies on subjects with and without Alzheimer’s disease. The levels of mercury found between each group were no different. At this time the American Dental Association, the Centers for Disease Control, the U.S. Public Health Service and the World Health Organization have not found sufficient evidence to question the safety of mercury fillings.

References:
Department of Health and Human Services: Mercury
American Dental Association: Amalgam (Dental Filling Options)
Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry: Public Health Statement for Mercury
Kip Sullivan: Evidence Implicating Amalgam in Alzheimer’s Disease
Michael J. Wahl, D.D.S.: Amalgam -- Resurrection and Redemption
Food and Drug Administration: FDA Issues Final Regulation on Dental Amalgam
Alzheimer’s Association: Alzheimer Myths