A to Z of MS
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A to Z of MS Dental amalgam
Due to the similarity between the effects of mercury poisoning and symptoms of multiple sclerosis, there have been some claims that mercury leaking from the dental amalgam used in fillings damages the immune system and can cause or worsen MS.
It is true that mercury poisoning can damage the nervous system and produces some symptoms seen in MS, such as tremor and weakness, however the damage is inflicted in a different way and the course of the disorder is different. Research has not been able to establish a positive link between dental amalgam and an impact on MS or to demonstrate the benefits of replacing fillings with alternatives that don't use mercury.
Whilst removal and replacement with non amalgam fillings by a dentist is not harmful if properly carried out, the process can be expensive.
Reference
Bates MN, et al.
Health effects of dental amalgam exposure: a retrospective cohort study.
International Journal of Epidemiology 2004;33(4):894-902.
abstract
Aminzadeh KK, Etminan M.
Dental amalgam and multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of Public Health Dentistry 2007;67(1):64-66.
abstract