The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Dentists (KZBV) has criticized the European Union’s ban on dental fillings containing mercury from 2025. “A loss of dental amalgam will make the care of vulnerable patient groups much more difficult,” said KZBV CEO Martin Hendges to the editorial network Germany.
There are currently no alternative materials available “with sufficient evidence” for all forms of care. In order to close this knowledge gap, further research must be carried out and results will only be available in a few years. Mercury is used for amalgam.
Negotiators from Parliament and the EU states agreed on the new requirements last week. Accordingly, dental fillings containing mercury should be largely banned in the EU from 2025 in order to protect health and the environment from the harmful effects of mercury. There should be exceptions if a dentist considers such a filling to be absolutely necessary due to the patient’s medical needs.
“The best-researched dental material”
Hendges said dental amalgam poses no health risks when used properly. In addition, an environmental hazard in Germany is almost impossible because the safety measures have been established and are extensive. “Basically, it can be said that amalgam is the oldest, best-researched dental material and is tolerated without any problems in the vast majority of cases,” said Hendges.
Despite mercury-free alternatives, around 40 tonnes of mercury are still used for dental amalgam in the EU every year, according to Parliament. Current regulations only prohibit such fillings for children under 15 and pregnant and breastfeeding women.
