How and When Did the Use of Silver/Mercury Fillings Begin?
Beginning in the 7th century, the Chinese used a “silver paste” containing mercury (Hg) to fill decayed teeth. This silvery liquid is extracted from cinnabar ore. At room temperature Hg dissolves powders of other metals such as silver, tin, and copper. By the early 1800’s, the use of a Hg/silver paste as a tooth filling material was being popularized in England and France. By 1830, it was eventually introduced into North America. This early mixture expanded after setting. It frequently fractured teeth or it protruding above the cavity preparation prevented proper jaw closure. Even at then, some dentists were concerned about mercurial poisoning. The reason? It was already widely recognized that Hg exposure resulted in many overt side effects, including dementia and loss of motor coordination. In 1845, as a reflection of these concerns, the American Society of Dental Surgeons and several affiliated regional dental societies adopted a resolution that its members sign a pledge NOT TO USE a
