AMALGAM PHASE OUT SUGGESTED BY WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
AMALGAM PHASE OUT SUGGESTED BY WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION The World Health Organization (WHO), working in conjunction with the United Nations Environmental Program, has released a report that endorses a gradual global phase out of the use of mercury containing amalgam
AMALGAM PHASE OUT SUGGESTED BY WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
The World Health Organization (WHO), working in conjunction with the United Nations Environmental Program, has released a report that endorses a gradual global phase out of the use of mercury-containing amalgam restorations. The report, entitled “Future Use of Materials for Dental Restorations,” cites mercury as one of 10 chemicals that are not only a public health concern, but an environmental one as well.There is divided opinion on whether or not amalgam fillings pose a health threat. As recently as 2010, the American Dental Association (ADA) released a statement asserting: “Numerous rigorously reviewed scientific studies have indicated that dental amalgam is a safe, effective option for treating dental decay.”
Amalgam has long been used in restorations, particularly in posterior restorations, due to its strength, but despite increased use of composites, it is unlikely that amalgam will disappear from the world’s dental offices any time soon. Daniel M. Meyer, DDS, the ADA’s senior vice president of science and professional affairs, and a participant in the WHO meeting that led to the report, tells Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, “We anticipate that amalgam will still be around for the foreseeable future, especially in undeveloped countries.”
Meyer acknowledges that another goal cited in the report is to explore ways of improving clinical technologies, therapeutics, and alternative restorations. But he says the primary focus is really on prevention. “In the interest of public health and well being,” says Meyer, “the goal is to prevent disease in the first place, rather than simply treating it and the consequences of disease.”
Tightening environmental regulations concerning waste management have already caused some dentists to move away from the use of amalgam. Additionally, insurance coverage for mercury-free restorations has been increasing. This is due to the fact that they are no longer simply dismissed as cosmetic options for patients who opt for tooth-colored restorations over amalgam.
