American Dental Association Health Foundation scientists have been working with government researchers to develop a mercury-free tooth-filling alternative to silver fillings.

Although the continued use of silver fillings had been endorsed by the American Dental Association, the US Public Health Service and World Health Organization, unsubstantiated claims about silver fillings have created concern among some people.

Researches hope the alternative materials will share the unique quality of mercury to bind together the silver and tin used to create silver fillings, while also duplicating amalgam's relative low cost and improve on its durability. The idea for the material grew out of research being conducted in metallurgy laboratories at the National Institutes of Standards and Technology, where researchers were working to develop high-strength metal using copper tungsten for industrial applications. The main challenge, finding a way to condense the experimental alloy at room temperature using existing dental instruments, was solved by compressing soft silver powder directly into a cavity preperation. The new mercury-free material is nearing the development point where it can be tested for safety and effectiveness. Although, given amalgam's record on safety, longevity, durability and low cost, scientists see no indication that the new material will provide both dentists and patients with additional choices in filling materials. (Source:ADA OnLine)