10/11/2025
A historic decision has been made in Geneva.
More than 150 countries, under the Minamata Convention on Mercury, have agreed to completely phase out mercury-based dental amalgam by 2034 — a landmark step in global health and environmental protection.
Mercury, once a mainstay of dental restorations for over 175 years, is now officially recognized by the World Health Organization as one of the top 10 chemicals of major public health concern — toxic to the nervous, immune, and renal systems, and a pollutant that persists in nature.
The agreement sets a science-based, time-bound goal to eliminate mercury in dentistry, replacing it with safer, modern alternatives such as composite resins, glass ionomers, and ceramic restorations. It marks a decisive shift toward mercury-free oral care and a safer, more sustainable dental future.
While some nations pushed for an earlier 2030 ban, consensus was reached for 2034 — balancing global access, affordability, and readiness of alternatives. The move follows growing international bans on mercury in batteries, cosmetics, and medical devices.