08/27/2025
Right after the Surgeon General made a statement on Mercury fillings, The Florida Dental Assiciation made theirs… read for yourself:
Aug. 26, 2025
Dear Dr. Perez,
The Florida Dental Association (FDA) distributed the following statement from its president, Dr. John Paul, in direct response to the news release sent by Florida State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo about the use of dental amalgam for fillings.
The FDA urges that all dental decisions and treatment options be made by patients and their dentists. Existing evidence shows that dental amalgam is not harmful to the general population, and the FDA supports dental amalgam as a safe, long-lasting and effective option for filling cavities.
An amalgam filling can sometimes be the difference between saving a tooth and losing a tooth. Other filling materials, such as composite, don’t work in every situation (ex. If a patient can’t control their saliva).
Additionally, Florida’s Medicaid program, as well as private dental insurance, only covers the cost of amalgam fillings. Reimbursement rates do not cover the additional cost of doing a composite filling procedure.
Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which material is best for them based on factors including the size and location of the cavity, dental history and cost.
The FDA also recommends that existing amalgam fillings in good condition should not be removed or replaced unless considered medically necessary by a health care professional.
The FDA is proud to serve as the voice of Florida’s dentists with the media and the public. This issue may be brought to you by your patients and the FDA wanted all members to be aware. If you are approached by media outlets, please reach out to FDA Director of Communications and Marketing Renee Thompson who can offer assistance and support.