The Indian Health Service is ending its use of dental amalgam in 2027, according to a Feb. 9 news release from HHS.
Here are five things to know:
- The Indian Health Service and tribal dental programs will transition to using mercury-free restorative materials.
- Historically, dental amalgams have been used for multi-surface restorations in molars and premolars due to its strength, durability and affordability.
- Growing efforts to reduce the use of materials that contain mercury, along with environmental and health concerns, prompted the change.
- The agency has been decreasing its use of dental amalgam since 2007.
- IHS is also increasing its prevention efforts to reduce the need for restorative procedures.
