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04
Are Metal Fillings Safe for Kids? What Parents Need to Know About Mercury
Mercury, metal, amalgam—these words shouldn’t come up when we’re talking about our kids’ smiles. And yet, many parents are surprised to learn that traditional dental fillings can contain mercury and other heavy metals.
As holistic dentists and moms and a grandma, this is personal. We’ve spent decades studying the effects of dental materials on the body—and have made it our mission to offer safe, non-toxic, and effective alternatives for children’s dental care.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the risks of metal fillings in kids, why they’re still used in some dental offices, and what natural, mercury-free options are available for your child.
What Are Metal Fillings Made Of?
Traditional amalgam fillings—also known as silver fillings—are made from a mix of metals, including:
- Mercury (about 50%)
- Silver
- Tin
- Copper
- Other trace metals
Mercury is used to bind the other metals together, creating a durable and long-lasting material. But durable doesn’t mean safe.
While the American Dental Association still considers amalgam safe for some populations, growing research suggests mercury vapor released from these fillings may pose serious health risks, especially for:
- Pregnant women
- Children under the age of 6
- People with kidney issues or mercury allergies
And yet, metal fillings are still sometimes used in pediatric dentistry.
Why Mercury Exposure Matters for Children
Children are especially vulnerable to neurological impairment from mercury exposure because their brains and nervous systems are still developing. Even low levels of mercury vapor have been linked to:
- Behavior changes
- Memory and attention issues
- Learning difficulties
- Lowered IQ
These risks are why many countries, including those in the EU, ban amalgam use in children. In the U.S., the FDA recommends avoiding mercury fillings in high-risk populations—but they haven’t outlawed them completely.
When it comes to your child’s oral health, even small exposures add up over time.
Are Metal Fillings Even Necessary?
No. Not anymore.
Thanks to advances in biocompatible dental materials, your child has safer options. At Total Care Kids, we never place amalgam. Instead, we use:
✅ Composite Resin Fillings
- Made from resin and powdered glass
- Match the natural tooth color
- Bond directly to the tooth structure
- Mercury-free
These metal-free fillings for children are not only safer but also more conservative. That means we remove less of your child’s healthy tooth structure—protecting their natural smile for the long term.
What About Durability?
Some parents ask whether composite or glass ionomer fillings are as durable as amalgam.
Here’s what I tell them: if your child practices good dental hygiene, eats a whole-foods-based diet, and receives regular dental care, tooth-colored fillings can last just as long—without the risks of mercury exposure.
And if we can catch cavities early, we may not need fillings at all.
Our Holistic Approach to Kids’ Dental Restorations
At Total Care Kids, we take a whole-body, minimally invasive approach to pediatric dentistry:
- We avoid harmful materials like mercury
- We use advanced technology to detect decay early
- We offer preventive care including ozone to stop cavities before they start
- We choose filling materials that support the child’s long-term health
Our goal isn’t just to fill cavities—it’s to protect the whole child.
Final Thoughts: Know What’s Going In Your Child’s Mouth
If another dental office suggests a silver filling for your child, ask questions:
- Does the filling contain mercury?
- Is there a mercury-free alternative?
- What’s the plan for future dental needs?
You deserve to make informed decisions about your child’s dental care—and we’re here to help.
Next Chapter: Do Kids Need Rooto Canals?
Ready for Safe, Natural Dental Care for Your Child?
At your child’s first comprehensive holistic dental visit, you’ll receive far more than a routine checkup. We take time to understand the whole child—so we can support their healthiest smile and overall wellness.
Your visit will include:
Age Appropriate X-Ray for airway, jaw, and structural insight
Dental photographs to evaluate development and detect early issues
Full gum and oral health assessment using gentle intraoral scanning
Comprehensive exam by a Total Care Kids who specializes in pediatric wellness
Airway, sleep, and oxygen evaluation to uncover root causes behind oral or behavioral concerns
At the end of your visit, you’ll receive a personalized report of findings with treatment recommendations tailored to your child. Our care coordinator will walk you through next steps, scheduling, and financial options—so you feel fully supported from the start.
