Tooth Structure
The part of the tooth that is usually visible over the gum is called the crown and the part that is attached to the gum is called the root. Read More »
RESOURCE CENTRE : NEWS AND EVENTS : PRESS RELEASES
NZDA Media Release on Amalgam
The recent announcement by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and its decision not to place any restriction on the use of dental amalgam as a filling material reaffirms the advice the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) has been giving to patients and dentists.
NZDA's Executive Director Dr David Crum stated - our advice has been and continues to be that the current worldwide scientific evidence shows dental amalgam is a safe, important and comparatively cost-effective dental filling material.
Scientific studies published by the American Medical Association in 2006 and by the American Dental Association in 2009 provide contemporary evidence that amalgam is a safe and viable dental filling material. This week's comprehensive and important FDA ruling has placed dental amalgam in the same class as gold and tooth-coloured composite filling materials.
The NZDA strongly supports the process of patients and dentists discussing options related to oral health procedures. Patients have the right to ask about and be advised of the advantages and disadvantages of the various materials used to fill teeth and in consultation with the dentist select the most appropriate option after being informed of any risks, possible side effects, benefits and costs. The NZDA supports discussion between dentists and patients that enable patients to make educated decisions regarding their dental care. For further information please contact:
NZDA Spokesperson on Dental Materials
Dr Graham Symes MDS FRACDS
Ph: 021 491 861
graham@symesdesilva.co.nz