Health Officials Urge States To End Mercury-Containing Dental Fillings
On July 22, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued letters to Medicaid directors in every state, recommending that they phase out coverage for dental fillings that contain mercury. These amalgam fillings, which mix mercury with other metals to treat cavities, would see restricted or discontinued support under state Medicaid programs if the advice is followed.
CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz emphasized the move’s importance, stating that patients deserve assurance their care prioritizes their well-being. He described ending the use of mercury-containing fillings as a clear step toward safer, higher-quality treatment that aligns with broader efforts to improve national health outcomes.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. reinforced the position, arguing that mercury does not belong in children’s mouths or contemporary healthcare. He noted that safer, effective alternatives free of this toxic heavy metal have long been available, and that addressing outdated practices is essential to reducing unnecessary exposure to harmful substances.
The letters highlighted that the Indian Health Service, which serves American Indian communities, already announced plans in February to discontinue mercury fillings by 2027 because of concerns about mercury exposure.
Studies have linked amalgam to elevated mercury levels in the blood, and some patients have reported health issues they associate with the material. The Minamata Convention on Mercury, which the United States signed in 2013, encourages nations to limit amalgam use and pursue alternatives; several countries have already eliminated these fillings.
While organizations such as the American Dental Association maintain that amalgam is safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has pointed to limited long-term data for young children and has cautioned that those under age 6 may face increased risk from mercury.
Common mercury-free options include composite resin, porcelain, and glass ionomer. According to the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, composite resin matches the durability of amalgam, blends with natural tooth color, and carries a moderate cost, making it the most popular substitute.
