Dental warning for pregnant women

Amalgam may pass through the placenta

Dentists are being advised not to give mothers-to-be fillings made out of mercury amalgam unless absolutely necessary.

The warning from the Department of Health has been prompted by fears that the mercury could get into the bloodstream and be passed to the unborn child and cause it medical problems.

Amalgam fillings have been in use for 150 years

Scientists have advised that there is a theoretical risk of poisoning. But the government is stressing that there is no hard evidence that the fillings can cause harm.

The UK's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Jeremy Metters, says the warning is just a precautionary step.

In a letter to dentists, he wrote: "There is no evidence of any harm to a foetus but, until further research is carried out, it may be prudent to avoid, where clinically reasonable, the placement or removal of amalgam fillings during pregnancy."

Robert Hempleman: has not used amalgam for six years

The government's action was welcomed by west London dentist Robert Hempleman.

He wants ministers to go further and have mercury fillings phased out altogether. "Mercury is a highly toxic poison," he said.

"A growing number of researchers from across the world have linked it as a possible contributory cause - if not a main factor - in a series of modern diseases, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis and general debilitating diseases."