Dental Amalgam to Be Phased Out Worldwide by 2034

A major global agreement has officially set 2034 as the year dental amalgam will be fully phased out worldwide, ending its manufacture, import, and export. The decision was finalized during the Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP6) to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, with strong leadership from the FDI World Dental Federation (FDI) and the International Association for Dental, Oral & Craniofacial Research (IADR).

A Ban With a Key Exception for Patient Care

Although the phase-out is now confirmed, the agreement includes an important exception:Even after 2034, dentists may still use amalgam when they determine it is medically necessary for a patient.

This clause was strongly advocated for by FDI and IADR to ensure that patient well-being remains the priority, especially in cases where alternative restorative materials are not yet accessible, affordable, or clinically appropriate.

Why 2034? Advocacy Extended the Original Timeline

Over four days of intense negotiation, FDI and IADR presented multiple statements emphasizing:

• The continued importance of amalgam in restorative dentistry

• The critical need for prevention-focused oral health policies

• The urgency of investing in affordable, effective, sustainable mercury-free alternatives

• The responsibility of improving waste-management practices to reduce environmental mercury exposure

Thanks to this coordinated advocacy, the original proposal to ban amalgam by 2030 was pushed back to 2034, giving countries more time to adapt.

Europe Has Already Moved Ahead

In fact, some regions acted even faster. The European Parliament voted in early 2024 to ban dental amalgam entirely and the total phase-out across the EU took effect on January 1st of this year.

Why the Transition Matters

According to Enzo Bondioni, Executive Director of FDI:

“This outcome gives our members the time and clarity needed to prepare national policies. Above all, it ensures continuity of care and supports global oral health equity during this transition.”

The nine-year adjustment period offers governments and dental systems the opportunity to:

• Update clinical guidelines

• Train professionals in new materials

• Strengthen public-health strategies

• Invest in research and innovation

As of September 2025, the Minamata Convention includes 153 participating countries, each responsible for implementing the new framework.

Science Will Guide the Future of Restorative Dentistry

Dr. Christopher Fox, CEO of IADR, highlighted the essential role of research:

“Science must drive global health policy. This outcome reflects the progress we’ve made in developing mercury-free alternatives, and we remain committed to supporting continued innovation so that no one is left behind.”

The next decade is expected to accelerate the development of new restorative materials that balance performance, affordability, and environmental safety.