1.   Critics for years have argued that people with mercury fillings can become ill, but the scientific community still considers the fillings safe to use.

2.   Dentists who frequently remove mercury fillings, such as Dr. Ron Dressler of Norcross, usually do so for patients who are referred by doctors who treat chronic pain.

3.   Lawmakers are starting to say that patients have a right to hear about the pros and cons of mercury fillings.

4.   Like other holistic dentists, Lee offers his patients a choice besides mercury fillings.

5.   The average American has seven mercury fillings, Ziff said.

6.   The U.S. Public Health Service says there is no evidence to support claims of adverse effects from mercury fillings except in cases of allergy.