UPDATE

In continuation with the ongoing negotiations with the Dental Council of India (DCI), Toxics Link met DCI President Dr. Dibyendu Majumdar and DCI Secretary Dr. S.K. Ojha, in Delhi on 19^th March 2015. The meeting was quite fruitful withDr. Majumdar acknowledging the need for environmentally sound disposal of mercury waste from all the dental set ups. Though many dental practitioners have now shifted to alternates; the disposal of amalgam waste is a big challenge, especially when it comes to the removal of old fillings.

There is increased awareness on the risks of use of mercury with respect to occupational hazard and environmental hazard but there is no Indian policy which addresses the release and control of mercury emissions from the dental sector. The discussion was on the emission of mercury from the dental clinics and colleges, for which again adequate measures are required.

It was suggested to the DCI during the meeting that, the DCI may incorporate the composite fillings in the BDS curriculum practical courses and the amalgam disposal mechanism as well to teach the students at the BDS level. Till now composites were just taught in the theory.

The meeting with President of DCI West Bengal chapter, Dr. Saibal Sen was also very successful. Dr. Sen agreed to restrict the amalgam filling to extreme cases of Class II cavity in population; however he also felt that, amalgam fillings must not be put into the teeth of vulnerable population including children, pregnant woman and nursing and lactating mother.