In our previous blog ‘More on Dental Amalgam and the Adverse Effects of Mercury Exposure’ we talked in depth about the harmful effects of mercury exposure from dental fillings on human health. Specifically, we mentioned the neurological effects and psychological effects it can have. It’s no secret that mercury exposure can lead to adverse health issues. But did you know that a recent study has discovered a link between arthritis and dental mercury exposure in adults?
What is Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that affects an estimated 22.7% of the U.S. population. It is characterized by severe joint pain, with the most common symptoms being swelling and tenderness of the joints. There are several types of arthritis. The most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to the CDC, arthritis is the primary cause of working disability among adults in the U.S.
The Toxicity of Mercury
In this video study researcher David Geier remarks “In terms of mercury, there is no safe, safe dose of mercury.” And his sentiment rings true.
Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that is naturally occurring. Humans are typically exposed to mercury through one of two means: fish or dental amalgam. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) has advocated against the use of mercury containing dental amalgam in the dental practice since 1985. Despite the known toxicity of mercury, mercury containing dental amalgam has been the primary method to fill cavities for more than 150 years.
Testing the Arthritis and Dental Mercury Connection
Though the exact cause of arthritis remains unknown, investigators suggest that toxins like mercury could contribute to development of arthritis. This study (with findings published through the National Center for Biotechnology Information in May of this year) set out to test the relationship between mercury based dental amalgam filling and arthritis diagnosis among U.S. adults. Researchers David and Mark Geier analyzed the data set from the 2013-2015 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. They examined the data from participants who had been exposed to mercury through dental amalgam fillings and those without mercury dental fillings (who had other materials instead).
The study found that adults with between 4 and 7 mercury dental amalgam filling surfaces had the highest incidence of arthritis.
Though anecdotal, this study could be used to draw a connection between arthritis and dental mercury exposure.
Federal Recognition of the Dangers of Mercury in Dentistry
In September of 2020 the FDA issued a list of recommendations regarding exposure from mercury-contains dental amalgam to high-risk groups. The list recommends that women who are nursing, pregnant, or plan to become pregnant are “at a greater risk for potential harmful health effects”. In addition, children under 6, those with pre-existing neurological diseases, those with impaired kidney function, and those with a high mercury allergy are also cited to be at a greater risk.
While this recognition is good, it fails to highlight the possible health effects that mercury-containing dental amalgam can have on everyone, not just those who are deemed “more” at risk.
As a holistic dental practice, it is part of our mission at Ecologic Dentistry to use the least toxic materials possible to protect you from exposure to toxic substances. For those who already have Mercury Amalgam fillings and need to remove them, we offer mercury amalgam filling removal utilizing the S.M.A.R.T. (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) developed by the IAOMT. This method allows us to remove mercury in a way that is safe for both you and our dental team.
If you need to have your dental amalgam removed, contact us and schedule an appointment today!