I am going through much dental work just now - bridge, crowns etc. Over the years I've read various articles about amalgam fillings - to remove or not to remove. Anyway, I thought I understood that if they had to be removed strict safety precautions should be in place. I have just had 2 removed and I am sure I swallowed loads of the "bits" - so I certainly experienced no safety precautions whatsover! My friend had one removed last night and a rubber sort of guard was fitted into her mouth to catch the bits - and she swallowed nothing. Can anyone tell me what the latest thoughts are on this. I have to get several more removed and I am a bit worried about swallowing loads more of the bits in the next couple of weeks. And - how much can my system tolerate without it becoming dangerous. Any information will be gratefully received.

Relax you'll be fine. you'll pass the pieces and won't even know it. Amalgams have been removed for years and years and years. and this debate will go on and on and on, but no evidence of anything except some leakage in the tooth. Mercury is in the fillings but is compressed out, and is inert. if you really want to be scared, look at some of the components to composite restorations. some of which are "said" to be carcinogenic, but again no evidence. Amalgam is an alloy, everything holds it together.

if you are really worried about it, ask a rubber dam to be used. that's the rubber thing you were talking about.

There is always amalgam dust which you probably swallow in the removal/ packing process. It wont harm!