Dentistry

Impact of Amalgam Fillings on the Environment: Mercury Levels and Sustainability

Rosa Kipi^* Department of Dentistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
^*Correspondence: Rosa Kipi, Department of Dentistry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland, Email:

Received: 01-Mar-2024, Manuscript No. DCR-24-25101; Editor assigned: 04-Mar-2024, Pre QC No. DCR-24-25101; Reviewed: 18-Mar-2024, QC No. DCR-24-25101; Revised: 25-Mar-2024, Manuscript No. DCR-24-25101; Published: 01-Apr-2024, DOI: 10.35248/2161-1122.23.14.679

Description

Dental amalgam fillings have been a common choice for restoring teeth for over a century due to their durability and cost effectiveness. However, concerns have arisen regarding their environmental impact, particularly due to the presence of mercury an effective neurotoxin. It explores the environmental implications of dental amalgam fillings, the concerns surrounding mercury, and sustainable alternatives. Mercury, a significant component of dental amalgam, poses significant environmental risks. Even small amounts of mercury can contaminate soil, water bodies, and the atmosphere, leading to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. Mercury emissions from dental amalgam fillings contribute to air pollution when dental clinics release mercury-containing wastewater or when amalgam waste is incinerated. These emissions can travel long distances, affecting ecosystems far from their source and posing a global environmental test. The primary concern with dental amalgam fillings lies in the mercury content. While dental amalgam is considered safe for most patients when properly placed and maintained, it releases small amounts of mercury vapor over time, particularly during placement, removal, and chewing. Although the levels of mercury exposure from amalgam fillings are typically below established safety thresholds, certain populations, such as pregnant women, children, and individuals with mercury sensitivity, may be more vulnerable to its effects. The disposal of amalgam waste presents a significant trial. Without proper management, such as the use of amalgam separators in dental clinics or the implementation of recycling programs, mercury from discarded fillings can find its way into the environment.

In response to environmental and health concerns, there has been a growing interest in sustainable dental practices and alternatives to traditional amalgam fillings. One such alternative is composite resin, a tooth-colored material that bonds directly to the tooth and does not contain mercury. Composite resin fillings offer aesthetic benefits and are increasingly preferred by patients seeking mercury-free options. Advances in dental technology have led to the development of other alternatives, such as glass ionomer and ceramic fillings, which also eliminate the use of mercury. These materials are biocompatible and offer comparable durability to dental amalgam, providing viable options for patients concerned about environmental impact. Efforts to improve waste management in dental clinics are essential for reducing mercury pollution. The installation of amalgam separators, which capture mercury-containing particles before they enter wastewater systems, can significantly reduce environmental contamination. Additionally, promoting recycling programs for amalgam waste allows for the recovery of mercury and other metals, minimizing their environmental footprint. While dental amalgam fillings have been a staple in restorative dentistry for decades, their environmental impact and mercury content raise valid concerns regarding sustainability and public health. As awareness grows, there is a shift towards mercury-free alternatives and sustainable practices within the dental industry.