If you silver fillings, you have a filling that is about 50% mercury, 20% silver and 30% a mix of tin, zinc and copper.  Any of these materials may cause adverse reactions in sensitive people, even though some of them are necessary for the cells to function properly, but the element that is in highest proportion also happens to be the most highly neurotoxic.  For this very reason, there is a faction of dentists dedicated to mercury filling removal.

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Each individual reacts to mercury exposure differently and some people are able to tolerate higher levels before symptoms of exposure are evident or are able to clear mercury from the body more effectively, but anyone will suffer when exposed to mercury levels beyond their individual threshold.

Silver fillings appear solid and stable, but the truth is mercury, although technically a metal, acts more like a liquid than a solid.  A small pool of mercury will evaporate, and do so more quickly at higher temperatures.  The process of evaporation is known as off-gassing and causes fillings to release miniscule amounts of mercury that are inhaled and swallowed, to be absorbed by the lungs and digestive tract.  From there it is taken up by the blood stream and accumulates in the organs. To test for your levels of mercury, contact your local holistic dental provider for a lab kit.

There are tests that determine the level of mercury in the body, but do not rely on just blood or urine tests, as they only reflect the mercury levels in the blood and accumulated mercury in the kidneys, respectively.  There are a lot of alternative filling materials, but none of them are best for every patient.  If you decide to have your fillings replaced, your dentist may recommend testing to help determine which material is best for you.  Your dentist may also recommend a course of chelating supplements to support your body in removing mercury that may be built up in your organs and tissues.

Fillings are only one source of mercury exposure.  You can also be exposed by eating certain types of fish or engaging in certain occupations.  Any time you can minimize your exposure, such as replacing mercury fillings with a better alternative, will be beneficial.  The size of the surface area of your filling will also influence how much mercury you are exposed to from your fillings.  Evaporation takes place on the surface, so the greater the surface area, the greater your exposure will be.  The longer you have your fillings, the greater your exposure will be also, as mercury collects in the tissues.

Finally, if you are exposed to any other toxic heavy metals, the health impact may be several times higher than exposure to either one alone.

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