[Someone1234]

In theory. But grinding teeth, chewing, or even brushing can cause flakes to break away. The biggest risk is actually during installation of the amalgam, particularly for dental professionals.

The real crux of the issue is that there are safer effective alternatives. So even if we call the risk "low," it is a needless risk. It only a matter of "when" not "if" these filings are against safety regulations.

[narrator]

Also drinking hot liquids can release small amounts of mercury vapor.

[patrioticaction]

They used to mix the mercury and metals on their bare hands back in the early 20th century before placing it in the tooth.