The debate over using poisonous mercury in fillings have been going on for years

Requests for mercury filling removals are becoming more and more common as author Terry Pratchett blames his Alzheimer’s on his mercury fillings, labelling them as “toxic waste”. Dental amalgam fillings, which contain 50% mercury are under new scrutiny, although there is little evidence to support Pratchett’s claims.

Thousands of people have claimed their mercury fillings have caused them to suffer from MS, chronic fatique and gut problems, and it has been know for years that mercury is a highly toxic, poisonous substance.

Sweden, Norway, Austria and Denmark have banned all products containing mercury, including fillings, but the British Department of Health still maintains fillings containing mercury are not harmful, except for those who are allergic. Although it does recommend pregnant women avoid having them inserted or removed, similarly pregnant women are advised not to eat too much fish due to possible residues of mercury.

A survey of patients who had symptoms of chronic fatigue and MS, found that 72 per cent reported their symptoms were much improved or gone after they had their amalgam fillings removed and detoxified.

Despite the trend moving towards white fillings last year two million mercury fillings were fitted in the UK alone.