Dental amalgam, used in dentistry for over 160 years, contains about 50% mercury and was once preferred for its strength, low cost, and ease of use. However, growing awareness of mercury’s toxicity has led to global efforts to phase it out. By 2030, the use of dental amalgam is set to be completely eradicated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that even small amounts of mercury can cause serious health and environmental harm, including developmental defects in children. The UNEP Global Mercury Assessment (2013) reported that dental amalgam accounts for 21% of global mercury consumption. Since mercury is highly toxic and non-degradable, continued use leads to its dangerous accumulation in the environment.

Studies since the 1980s have shown that mercury vapor continuously releases from amalgam fillings—especially after chewing. A single 0.4 cm² filling........

© Greater Kashmir