Occupational Dental Mercury Harm

This lesson will focus on occupational dental mercury exposures which have been linked to a range of serious health issues, yet many dentists are unaware of the extensive warnings provided by amalgam manufacturers in their Safety Data Sheets. These warnings highlight the risks associated with mercury exposure from silver amalgam tooth restorations. Research has shown that dentists exposed to mercury may experience adverse health effects, including an increased risk of multiple sclerosis and tremors, as noted in a JADA study. Additionally, genetic polymorphisms have been found to influence mercury levels in hair, blood, and urine among ADA study participants, suggesting that individual susceptibility plays a role in mercury toxicity. Health impacts among dental personnel also extend to pregnancy outcomes, with evidence indicating that mercury exposure may adversely affect pregnancy among dental staff. Mercury has also been associated with elevated blood pressure and cognitive symptoms, particularly among dental assistants, who have reported neurological issues. In Norway, dental nurses have successfully won legal battles, receiving millions in damages after presenting neurotoxic symptoms linked to their occupational mercury exposure, underscoring the long-term risks to dental professionals.