The world is about to ban mercury-based dental fillings, ending a practice that has lasted for nearly two centuries.
By 2034, countries across the globe will phase out dental amalgam, a material once commonly used to fill cavities, as part of a major international effort to reduce mercury pollution. The decision was finalized at a summit in Geneva, where over 150 nations participating in the Minamata Convention on Mercury agreed to the deadline, calling it a critical move for public health and environmental safety.
Mercury is considered highly toxic, and while it’s already banned in products like thermometers, batteries, and cosmetics in many places, its use in dental work has oddly persisted. That’s now changing. Some nations, particularly from Africa, pushed for a faster 2030 cutoff and called for a halt to mercury amalgam production and trade. But after negotiation, 2034 was accepted as a compromise. Opposition came from countries like the UK, Iran, and India, who argued that health systems needed more time to transition. Still, the agreement is being praised as a realistic and science-driven plan.
Beyond fillings, the Geneva conference approved 21 measures targeting mercury across industries. One major area of concern was skin-lightening cosmetics, which often contain mercury to reduce melanin production. These products are dangerous, illegal in many countries, and increasingly sold online. Delegates agreed to strengthen enforcement and tackle the illegal trade fueling their spread.
Source: Lanese, N. (2025, November 9). World Agrees to Phase Out Mercury Fillings by 2034. Popular Mechanics.
