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   During several hours of negotiation sessions, The FDA has agreed to change its website on amalgam---dramatically. Gone, gone, gone are all of FDA’s claims that no science exists that amalgam is unsafe, or that other countries have acted or environmental reasons only, Instead, see http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/amalgams.html —FDA has moved to a neutral position, while recognizing the serious health concerns posed by amalgam in particular for children and unborn children, for pregnant women, for those with mercury immuno-sensitivity or high mercury body burdens.

The following are excerpts from FDAwebsite on Amalgam Fillings:

1. What is dental amalgam? Dental amalgam is the silver-colored material used to fill teeth that have cavities. Dental amalgam
is made of two nearly equal parts: liquid mercury and a powder containing silver, tin, copper, zinc and other metals. Mercury concentration in dental amalgams is generally about 50% by weight

3. What are the safety concerns about dental amalgam? Dental amalgams contain mercury, which may have neurotoxic effects on the nervous systems of developing children and fetuses. When amalgam fillings are placed in teeth or removed from teeth, they release mercury vapor (into the body). Mercury vapor is also released during chewing…mercury vapor can cause health problems, including neurological disorders, in children and fetuses.

4. Are there other dental filling materials that can be used instead of amalgam? Yes, there are several other types of dental fillings. Resin composites are tooth-colored materials made from powdered glass and resin compounds. Newer composites are stronger, although they still tend to wear more than metal-based materials and generally need earlier replacement. Porcelain, gold, and other metals are also used as filling materials. Gold and porcelain are used for inlays, veneers, crowns, and
bridges.

5. Should I have my amalgam fillings removed and replaced with these other materials? If I have a cavity, should I choose
to get amalgam fillings? FDA does not recommend that you have your amalgam fillings removed. If you are concerned about the possible health effects of amalgam fillings, you should talk with your qualified health care practitioner…amalgam could pose a
health risk.

6. Should pregnant women and young children use or avoid amalgam fillings? Some other countries follow a "precautionary
principle" and avoid the use of dental amalgam in pregnant women. Advice about dental amalgams from regulatory agencies in other countries is available below.

Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyhvsv/environ/merc-eng.php
France: http://afssaps.sante.fr/ang/pdf/amalgam.pdf
Sweden: http://www.kemi.se/templates/Page.aspx?id=5233

Pregnant women and persons who may have a health condition that makes them more sensitive to mercury exposure, including individuals with existing high levels of mercury bioburden, should not avoid seeking dental care, but should discuss options with their health practitioner… You may call Dr. Bernie Villadiego at 818-341-1345 if you have any questions concerning
dental amalgam mercury fillings or visit his website at www.powerofthesmile.com.