Dentists face one of the biggest changes in 150 years as amalgam fillings are phased out
Liverpool dentist Dr Tracey Bell says that due to environmental and health concerns Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Germany have already banned or restricted the use of amalgam
When many of us smile a little flash of silver is often visible – they are the amalgam fillings that dentists have been using for 150 years.
However, they will soon become a thing of the past. Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Germany have already banned or restricted their use and now France and the UK are following suit.
Amalgam fillings are popular with dentists on the grounds of being cheap, strong and long-lasting but Liverpool city centre dentist Dr Tracey Bell says change is coming in the next few days.
The British Dental association and the Council of European Dentists are working together to bring about a full ban on the use of dental amalgam by 2030. This is not so much down to specific health concerns about mercury but more about the environmental damage it can cause.
However, mercury can cross to placenta and dentists often advise pregnant women to avoid non-essential dental treatments.
Dr Bell said: “From July 1, 2018, dental amalgam should not be used in the treatment of deciduous teeth in children under 15 or pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless deemed strictly necessary by the dentist based on the specific needs of the patient.
“Your dentist should advise you on the alternatives and help you choose a type of filling that is safe and durable.”
She added there were now a range of alternatives to amalgam, including white fillings and also porcelain and gold fillings, which can prove very hard-wearing and effective when large fillings are required, as well as CERAC fillings (which are created using computer-aided design).
She says the team at Tracey Bell Liverpool will be on hand to advise patients under 15 and pregnant or breastfeeding women who attend their Mount Street clinic.
In addition to advising on the most suitable type of fillings, the Tracey Bell dental team also offers preventative treatments, helping children to avoid tooth decay and encouraging patients of all ages to schedule regular hygienist appointments.