Allergies to amalgam are extremely rare. From 1905 to 1990, fewer than 50 cases of allergic responses to amalgam were reported in the scientific literature. Reported cases of amalgam allergy include reactions such as swollen lips and rashes in the oral, head and neck region. Sometimes, localized lesions appear in the oral cavity. Any type of allergic reaction to amalgam would be seen within hours to days after contact with this metal mixture.
Most allergic reactions resolve within several days without dental or medical intervention.
On rare occasion, amalgam fillings may need to be replaced with another type of filling material to avoid an allergic reaction. An allergist or dermatologist should perform this test. Blood or hair tests cannot easily detect potential allergies and can be quite expensive. If you feel you are currently having an allergic reaction to any dental material, you should see your dentist. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment.