Are Mercury Fillings Banned? The U.S., Europe, and 2035
A Global Shift Away From Mercury
Mercury fillings are not banned in the United States. The European Union banned most uses of dental amalgam starting January 1, 2025, and in November 2025 countries under the Minamata Convention adopted a global ban on the manufacture, import, and export of dental amalgam, taking effect in 2035. In the U.S., the FDA recommends avoiding amalgam for certain higher-risk groups.
Where Amalgam Stands Today
| Region | Status | Effective |
|---|---|---|
| European Union | Amalgam banned for dental use, with narrow exceptions when a dentist deems it strictly necessary | Jan. 1, 2025 |
| Worldwide (Minamata Convention) | Global ban on manufacture, import, and export of dental amalgam | 2035 |
| United States | Not banned. FDA recommends avoiding new amalgam for higher-risk groups when appropriate | 2020 guidance |
| Atlanta Dental Wellness | We do not place mercury amalgam fillings | Current |
Why Regulators Are Moving Away From Amalgam
Much of the regulatory change is driven by environmental concerns. Mercury from dental offices can enter wastewater and the environment. Mercury-free materials have also improved, making alternatives practical for most fillings.
What This Means for Your Existing Fillings
Bans on new amalgam do not mean existing fillings must be removed. The FDA advises against removing sound fillings unless medically necessary. If you have concerns, a tooth-by-tooth evaluation can help you decide, and removal, when chosen, should use protective steps such as the SMART protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers address common questions patients ask about mercury filling regulations. Your examination and health history may lead to different advice for you.
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No. Dental amalgam is still legal in the United States, although the FDA recommends avoiding it for certain higher-risk groups.
Many U.S. dentists, including Atlanta Dental Wellness, no longer place amalgam.
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Yes, some dentists still place amalgam, though its use has declined as tooth-colored materials have improved.
You can ask any dentist whether they place amalgam before treatment.
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The European Union banned most dental amalgam use starting January 1, 2025.
Narrow exceptions remain when a dentist deems amalgam strictly necessary for a specific patient.
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The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a global treaty to reduce mercury use and pollution.
In November 2025, parties adopted a ban on the manufacture, import, and export of dental amalgam, effective in 2035.
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Much of the change is driven by environmental concerns about mercury pollution, along with improved mercury-free alternatives.
Health concerns for higher-risk groups are also part of the discussion.
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No. Bans apply to new fillings, not existing ones. Sound fillings do not need to be removed unless there is a clinical or medical reason.
We can evaluate your fillings and explain your options.
Mercury-Free Dentistry in Atlanta
If you want to understand your existing fillings or choose mercury-free care, schedule a visit with Atlanta Dental Wellness in Atlanta.
