Should Pregnant Women Replace Silver Fillings with Resin?

Could you please provide more details about your question regarding silver amalgam fillings?

Recent media reports suggest that pregnant women should opt for resin fillings instead of amalgam to reduce potential harm to the fetus.
I am planning to get pregnant soon, but I have several teeth that have been filled with amalgam due to cavities from a long time ago.
I would like to know if I should have the amalgam fillings removed and replaced with resin before becoming pregnant.
If I do not replace them, will it affect my baby? I would appreciate your response.
Thank you very much!

p, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/20

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The role of silver amalgam in dental restorations has long been a subject of debate.
However, silver amalgam has advantages such as durability, wear resistance, and high hardness.
On the other hand, being a silver-mercury alloy, it is prone to corrosion and micro-leakage over time in the oral environment, which can lead to symptoms such as sensitivity to hot and cold in the restored teeth.
Therefore, whether to remove and replace existing silver amalgam restorations before pregnancy depends on the presence of corrosion, micro-leakage, or fractures that may cause tooth sensitivity.
If any of these conditions are present, it is advisable to consider re-restoration.

Reply Date: 2005/08/20

More Info

When it comes to dental fillings, particularly for pregnant women, there are several factors to consider, especially regarding the use of silver amalgam versus resin-based materials. Silver fillings, which are primarily made of a mixture of metals including mercury, have been a standard choice for dental restorations for many years. However, concerns have arisen regarding the potential risks associated with mercury exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and their developing fetuses.

The primary concern with silver fillings is the mercury content. While the amount of mercury released from amalgam fillings is generally considered to be low and within safe limits, some studies suggest that there may be a risk of mercury accumulation in the body over time. This has led to recommendations that pregnant women consider alternatives, such as composite resin fillings, which do not contain mercury and are perceived as safer for both the mother and the fetus.

If you are considering whether to replace your silver fillings before becoming pregnant, it is essential to evaluate the condition of those fillings. If your silver fillings are intact, without signs of wear, corrosion, or leakage, it may not be necessary to replace them solely based on pregnancy. However, if there are any indications of deterioration, such as sensitivity, decay around the filling, or visible damage, it would be prudent to consult with your dentist about replacing them with a safer material.

The American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have stated that dental care is safe during pregnancy and that necessary dental treatments should not be postponed. If you are planning to become pregnant, it is advisable to have a dental check-up to assess the health of your teeth and fillings. Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations based on your dental health and any specific concerns you may have.

In terms of potential effects on your baby, current research does not conclusively link the presence of silver fillings to adverse outcomes in pregnancy. However, the precautionary principle suggests that minimizing exposure to any potentially harmful substances during pregnancy is wise. Therefore, if you have concerns about the safety of silver fillings, discussing these with your healthcare provider and dentist can help you make an informed decision.

In conclusion, while there is no definitive evidence that silver fillings will harm your baby if left in place during pregnancy, it is essential to consider their condition and your comfort level with having them. If you have doubts or if the fillings are compromised, replacing them with resin-based materials may provide peace of mind and align with current recommendations for minimizing potential risks during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider and dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

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