Half of Romanians aged over 40 have dental treatments with heavy metal fillings

Cristian Hatis
Sat, 22 Feb 2025 09:46:22 +0000
Life, health

More than half of Romanians over the age of 40 who have had cavities treated over the years reported at least one intervention with a heavy metal amalgam – based on Mercury, Beryllium, Nickel or Copper, a dangerous technique used mainly between the 1980s and early 2000s.

According to a decision of the European Parliament in 2024, heavy metal-based fillings have been banned from January 1, 2025 across the European Union due to the increased risk to human health. Yet around 40 tons of mercury was still being used in dental treatments in the EU last year.

Mercury is a highly toxic chemical that poses a threat to both human health and the environment. Exposure to high levels of mercury can cause damage to the brain, lungs, kidneys and immune system, the LIFE Group data shows.

According to Cristina Obreja M.D., Copper – increases oxidative stress, affecting cellular health, Nickel – is a powerful allergen that can cause serious reactions, Beryllium, Cadmium, Arsenic or Chromium – are carcinogenic substances, while Mercury in amalgam fillings evaporates, enters the bloodstream, attacks the kidneys and nervous system.

Laser treatment of a cavity in LIFE Dental Spa or VIVO Dental clinics varies between 60 and 120 EUR, depending on the area or the promotional packages available. Dental treatment, when it’s too late to improve the problem, can cost the patient up to EUR 1000 for a single tooth.

Over a third of students are affected by numerical illiteracy