U.S. Rep. Diane E. Watson, D-Calif.,
has reintroduced a bill that would ban the use of mercury in dental
fillings.
The Mercury in Dental Fillings Disclosure and Prevention Act would
prohibit interstate sales of mercury for use in dental fillings after
2008.
In addition, the bill would establish an immediate prohibition on the
use of dental amalgams in pregnant women and children under 18.
"Mercury is the most toxic naturally occurring element on the Earth,"
Rep. Watson said. "Many Americans are still not aware that the vast
majority of dental filling used by dentists - referred to as a silver
filling - contains more than 50 percent mercury."
Watson contends that safer alternatives are available.
The American Dental Association has opposed Watson´s bill in the
past, saying it would deprive patients of an essential treatment that is
proven safe and effective.
Mercury can be toxic, but the process of making amalgam fillings
binds the mercury and makes it stable and safe, according to the ADA.
Banning its use would unnecessarily increase the cost of dental care,
according to the AMA.