Dental Services: Northern Ireland

Question

The United Kingdom’s current position is to phase down the use of dental amalgam in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, in line with national plans published in 2019. This includes avoiding the need for fillings through improvements in oral health and prevention, a clinical minimal intervention approach, restrictions on the use of dental amalgam on the treatment of deciduous teeth; in children under 15 years; and in pregnant or breastfeeding women, except when strictly deemed necessary by the practitioner on the ground of specific medical needs of the patient. This position is based on existing research on dental amalgam alternatives, clinical assessments based on clinical, and population need of the UK, impacts of COVID-19 and environmental uncertainties.