Silver fillings contain about 50% mercury, a neurotoxin. Mercury from fillings contributes 3 to 4 times more mercury to our bodies than do all environmental sources combined. Heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium can weaken the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to infection, cancer, and other diseases.
Weakening of the immune system is particularly dangerous for breast cancer patients struggling with the immunity-inhibiting side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Most integrative medicine physicians agree, however, that there is no immediate need to rush out and have all of your silver fillings removed. The decision to remove your fillings or leave them in place depends entirely on your own comfort level. If you are very anxious about the issue, your overall emotional and physical wellness may be better served by having your silver fillings replaced with a non-toxic composite filling. Discuss this issue with your integrative medicine physician and your dentist.
Any easier decision is not to have any more silver fillings containing mercury placed in your teeth. Even state dental associations have begun informing their patients of the dangers of mercury. Many dental offices no longer offer the silver filling option.
If you elect to leave your current silver filings in place, you should consider taking at least 100 mg of selenium each day, as this will help reduce levels of heavy metal in your body. As with all other decisions about supplements and dietary changes, be sure to first discuss the issue with your integrative medical physician and your oncologist.
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