New warnings about silver dental fillings from the food and drug administration stating they can cause health problems for some people. This is despite years of statements from the American Dental Association and FDA stating the material, called dental amalgam is safe.

A recent update from the FDA states patients should avoid them when they can. Among those who should be avoiding fillings are pregnant women, women planning to become pregnant, women who are nursing and children, especially those under six years of age. Additionally, adults with kidney problems and those with neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease should avoid these fillings as well.

Amalgam has been used because of the strength of the material and the lower cost when compared to other materials. Recent studies have shown amalgam can release small amounts mercury vapors. While mercury vapors are not a threat to the health of most people, they can be to those sensitive to mercury or who have any of the aforementioned conditions.

The FDA is not recommending those with fillings have them removed and replaced if they are still good. Doing so can increase mercury exposure and hurt the healthy tooth structure. For more of the latest on news pertaining to the CKD community, be sure to check out our YouTube.