European Union Takes Steps to Phase Out Dental Amalgam

On 8 February 2024, negotiators from the European Parliament and the Council reached a provisional political agreement on the phasing out of dental amalgam. The agreement is in line with the European Commission’s proposal to address the remaining uses of mercury in the European Union, with the overall goal of achieving a mercury-free environment in line with the EU's Zero Pollution Ambition to protect the health of EU citizens and the ecosystem.

About Mercury

Mercury, a highly toxic chemical, poses a significant threat to both human health and the environment. When released into the environment, it enters the food chain and accumulates in fish in particular. Exposure to high levels of mercury can lead to adverse effects on the brain, lungs, kidneys, and immune system.

Despite the availability of viable mercury-free alternatives, approximately 40 tonnes of mercury is still used annually for dental amalgam in the EU. This continued use is due to existing legislation that only prohibits the use of dental amalgam for treating teeth in children under 15 years old, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Key Points of the Agreement

1. Ban on dental amalgam: Dental amalgam, which contains mercury, will no longer be permitted for use in the EU starting from 1 January 2025, except where deemed strictly necessary for specific medical needs.

2. Derogation period: A derogation allowing the use of dental amalgam will be in place until 30 June 2026 for EU countries that have not adapted their reimbursement systems to cover alternatives. This is to avoid negative impacts on low-income individuals who may face socio-economic challenges as a result of the phase-out.

3. Export ban: The export of dental amalgam will be banned from 1 January 2025 and the manufacture and import into the EU will be banned from 1 July 2026.

Satisfaction of the rapporteur

Marlene Mortler, rapporteur from the European People's Party (EPP) in Germany, expressed her satisfaction with the agreement, stressing the importance of banning dental amalgam while ensuring excemptios for medically necessary cases. Mortler underlined the need to consider the socio-economic consequences and stressed the commitment to prevent the export of mercury-containing to non-EU countries.

Next Steps

The next steps include the adoption of the agreement by the European Parliament and the Council. Once adopted, the new law will be published in the EU’s Official Journal and will enter into force 20 days later.