Media Release

10 June 2008

Ministry of Health statement on amalgam and other dental filling materials

Dr Robin Whyman, chief dental officer, said the Ministry of Health's positon on the use of amalgam for dental fillings had not changed.

"Despite some recent American media reports on the use of amalgam fillings, our advice remains unchanged and is very much in line with information currently provided by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite some claims that dental amalgam has been shown to adversely affect the health of pregnant women and of younger children, the FDA have actually said that their recent advisory panel did not believe there was enough information to answer that question at that time and the FDA is now undergoing a further process to look again at the scientific literature.

"We continually monitor the latest research and literature on amalgam and other dental filling materials, and based on the evidence to date we have no reason to change our policy. Our focus is very much on preventing dental decay, however, when fillings are required, an informed consent process is standard practice.

"Dental therapists obtain written or oral permission from parents or caregivers before carrying out work on children and it is usual for dentists to discuss treatment options with their adolescent and adult patients," Dr Whyman said.

The Medsafe website has further information on amalgam and other dental filling materials.

The FDA website features a Question and Answer section on dental amalgam - http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/amalgams.html

For further information, please contact Karalyn van Deursen (Media Advisor) (021) 832 459