Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to al... more Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to all living beings and the environment in all its forms. As a global pollutant, it demands urgent attention and effective measures to mitigate its toxic effects. The Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, adopted in 2013 and enforced in 2017, stands as a vital instrument in combating this pervasive toxin. Presently, 144 countries have ratified the treaty, embodying the collective commitment to the mantra "Make Mercury History." As countries work diligently to eliminate mercury from various products and processes, such as thermometers, batteries, lighting, and cosmetics, dental amalgam remains a notable concern. Being one of the top mercury-containing products globally, dental amalgam has drawn attention for its phasedown approach within the treaty. The dental sector alone accounts for an estimated 340 tonnes of mercury usage each year. Alarmingly, mercury derived from dental amalg...
Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to al... more Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to all living beings and the environment in all its forms. As a global pollutant, it demands urgent attention and effective measures to mitigate its toxic effects. The Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, adopted in 2013 and enforced in 2017, stands as a vital instrument in combating this pervasive toxin. Presently, 144 countries have ratified the treaty, embodying the collective commitment to the mantra "Make Mercury History." As countries work diligently to eliminate mercury from various products and processes, such as thermometers, batteries, lighting, and cosmetics, dental amalgam remains a notable concern. Being one of the top mercury-containing products globally, dental amalgam has drawn attention for its phasedown approach within the treaty. The dental sector alone accounts for an estimated 340 tonnes of mercury usage each year. Alarmingly, mercury derived from dental amalgam infiltrates the black market, ultimately entering the artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector, the primary source of global mercury pollution. Furthermore, dental amalgam plays a significant role in municipal wastewater mercury contamination, as it has been identified as the largest source of this toxic element in such environments. Considering its pervasive nature, diverse pathways of contamination, and its ability to bioaccumulate in both humans and the environment, it is evident that the toxic legacy of dental amalgam will persist long after the placement of the last amalgam filling. The pressing issue of mercury toxicity makes it imperative for action to be taken through the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty. As we strive to "Make Mercury History" for the well-being of all living organisms, mercury dental amalgam must be proactively addressed to prevent its continued contribution to global mercury pollution.
Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even ... more Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even though mercury is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”. While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However, a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury History” in the dental sector.
Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even ... more Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even though mercury is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”. While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However, a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury History” in the dental sector.
Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting f... more Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting from the illegal diversion of dental mercury into the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, to crematoria emissions from the deceased and sewage sludge that is sold to farmers. These significant mercury sources result in air, water, and food contamination that consequently have a negative impact on human health. Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment. Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on M...
The term "biocompatibility" has been gaining recognition, not only in medicine, but particularly ... more The term "biocompatibility" has been gaining recognition, not only in medicine, but particularly in dentistry. It basically means, biocompatible materials should not have a negative impact on the recipient. Currently, there are literally thousands of different components that makeup the materials that are used in common dental procedures, with more being developed each year. Scientific literature is now reporting on the importance of using the most biocompatible material for the patient. Research is finding that not only using the least reactive material is important, but also how that material may interact with other materials that may have already been implanted into the oral cavity. Unfortunately, even today, dental procedures are often designed simply for the functionality of the treatment, or for cosmetic purposes, even though it is well established that all foreign materials introduced into the human body will elicit an immune response. Therefore, materials that are being used, which are not investigated for reactivity prior to treatment, pose a potential risk of toxicity, or allergic reaction to the individual patient. Since the mouth is considered the most hostile environment in the human body, it is critical to understand and evaluate the long-term effects of dental materials, since these materials are often used due their lasting durability.
The controversy between pharmaceutical drugs and supplements is ever present in global society, e... more The controversy between pharmaceutical drugs and supplements is ever present in global society, especially now, in the media during the current Covid-19 virus. One of the most important, yet, provocative supplements is vitamin C. While historically, its positive benefits have long been known, during the last decades the push for pharmaceutical drugs, instead of supplements like vitamin C, has created a heated debate against this, and other very affordable supplements.
Whole body health is directly linked to oral health. While the “Focal Infection Theory”, had been... more Whole body health is directly linked to oral health. While the “Focal Infection Theory”, had been dismissed, many common procedures such as root canals, dental implants, nickel braces, and ordinary tooth extractions are being investigated as the causation of diseases. For example, current research has shown that 30-40% of chronic maxillary sinusitis cases are caused by oral conditions, dental infections and dental extractions may be a predisposing risk factor for conceivable life- threatening infections of the head and neck. This short communication investigates the importance of oral health and why medical and dental professionals need to join forces for the best patient outcomes.
Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting f... more Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting from the illegal diversion of dental mercury into the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, to crematoria emissions from the deceased and sewage sludge that is sold to farmers. These significant mercury sources result in air, water, and food contamination that consequently have a negative impact on human health. Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment. Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty,” “Sewage Sludge,” “Cremation,” and “Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining.” Data were included on the most populous countries of China, India, the United States, Brazil, and the European Union collectively. We also included data on cremation statistics and current global trends, looking at populations where cremation is a common practice, such as Japan and India. Discussion. Dental amalgam represents a significant, but understudied area of global mercury pollution that includes cremation, sewage sludge, burial, and small-scale gold mining. Conclusions. Mercury used in products and processes, including dental amalgams, is a global pollutant. Even after the last mercury dental amalgam is placed, its toxic legacy will continue for decades, because of its pervasive bioaccumulation in the environment. Government regulatory agencies should make it mandatory to utilize available technologies, not only in developing countries, but also in developed countries, to reduce mercury contamination. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests. Keywords. mercury dental amalgam, Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, sewage sludge, cremation, artisanal and small-scale gold mining
1 | INTRODUC TI ON Titanium is widely distributed and constitutes 0.44% of the earth's crust. The... more 1 | INTRODUC TI ON Titanium is widely distributed and constitutes 0.44% of the earth's crust. The metal is found combined in practically all rocks, sand, clay, and other soils. It is also present in plants, animals, natural waters, deep-sea dredg-ings, meteorites, and stars. Ti's atomic number is 22. 1 Ultrafine Ti dioxide (TiO 2) is commonly used in a number of applications, including food additives , food packaging material, sunscreens, cosmetic creams, and as a component of surgical implants. There are rising concerns over exposure to TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) during critical windows, such as pregnancy and lactation, for women and men of reproductive age, and last but not least, childhood exposure to high cumulative doses. 2 We have included in our discussion various source points of Ti and how its use with other metals may lead to increased health risks due to galvanic corrosion. 2 | TITANIUM DIOXIDE NANOPARTICLE S (TI O 2 NPS) The cytotoxic effect of Ti particles is size dependent, since they must be smaller than that of cells. 3 TiO 2 exists naturally, mainly in the form of three crystalline structures: rutile, anatasa, and brookite. In Ti implants, the passivant oxide layer is made up of anatasa and rutile or anatasa alone. 4 Ti in dentistry is widely used as an implant in the form of membranes, grids, reduction plates, screws, and distrac-tors, among other applications. In 2009, about 300 000 patients in the United States received dental implants. Since no metal or alloy is entirely inert, in vivo corrosion can occur. 4 Khan et al 5 compared the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of zinc oxide NPs (ZnO) and TiO 2 NPs using various concentrations. Both NPs were found to create reactive oxygen species (ROS) concomitant with the depletion of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), chloramphenicol acetyl trans-ferase (CAT), and lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. Both NPs exerted roughly equal oxidative stress in terms of the above stress markers. This study affirmed that ROS generation is the main mechanism to cause various types of toxicities by ZnO and TiO 2 NPs. These results clearly suggest that both ZnO and TiO 2 NPs are significantly cytotoxic, and also genotoxic at all concentrations with respect to untreated samples or controls. While comparing with ionic forms, no significant difference was found. 5 Ghosh et al 6 evaluated the toxic effects of commercial TiO 2 NPs by using a series of Abstract Historically, titanium (Ti) has maintained the reputation of being an inert and relatively biocompatible metal, suitable for use in both medical and dental prosthesis. There are many published articles supporting these views, but there is recent scientific evidence that Ti, or its corrosive by-products, may cause harmful reactions in humans. It is important for all medical and dental professionals to understand the implications, complexities, and all potential pathways of exposure to this metal. These exposures are not only from the environment but also through various commonly used products in medicine that are often completely overlooked. These external (in-termittent) and internal (constant) exposures have an impact on whole-body health. This review examines possible harmful effects, risks, and often ignored potential complications of Ti exposure to human health. K E Y W O R D S electromagnetic frequency, nanoparticles, titanium dental implants This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.
Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to al... more Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to all living beings and the environment in all its forms. As a global pollutant, it demands urgent attention and effective measures to mitigate its toxic effects. The Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, adopted in 2013 and enforced in 2017, stands as a vital instrument in combating this pervasive toxin. Presently, 144 countries have ratified the treaty, embodying the collective commitment to the mantra "Make Mercury History." As countries work diligently to eliminate mercury from various products and processes, such as thermometers, batteries, lighting, and cosmetics, dental amalgam remains a notable concern. Being one of the top mercury-containing products globally, dental amalgam has drawn attention for its phasedown approach within the treaty. The dental sector alone accounts for an estimated 340 tonnes of mercury usage each year. Alarmingly, mercury derived from dental amalg...
Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to al... more Mercury, known as the most toxic non-radioactive element to man, poses a significant threat to all living beings and the environment in all its forms. As a global pollutant, it demands urgent attention and effective measures to mitigate its toxic effects. The Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, adopted in 2013 and enforced in 2017, stands as a vital instrument in combating this pervasive toxin. Presently, 144 countries have ratified the treaty, embodying the collective commitment to the mantra "Make Mercury History." As countries work diligently to eliminate mercury from various products and processes, such as thermometers, batteries, lighting, and cosmetics, dental amalgam remains a notable concern. Being one of the top mercury-containing products globally, dental amalgam has drawn attention for its phasedown approach within the treaty. The dental sector alone accounts for an estimated 340 tonnes of mercury usage each year. Alarmingly, mercury derived from dental amalgam infiltrates the black market, ultimately entering the artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector, the primary source of global mercury pollution. Furthermore, dental amalgam plays a significant role in municipal wastewater mercury contamination, as it has been identified as the largest source of this toxic element in such environments. Considering its pervasive nature, diverse pathways of contamination, and its ability to bioaccumulate in both humans and the environment, it is evident that the toxic legacy of dental amalgam will persist long after the placement of the last amalgam filling. The pressing issue of mercury toxicity makes it imperative for action to be taken through the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty. As we strive to "Make Mercury History" for the well-being of all living organisms, mercury dental amalgam must be proactively addressed to prevent its continued contribution to global mercury pollution.
Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even ... more Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even though mercury is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”. While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However, a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury History” in the dental sector.
Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even ... more Mercury dental amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material for almost 200 years. Even though mercury is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”. While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However, a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury History” in the dental sector.
Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting f... more Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting from the illegal diversion of dental mercury into the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, to crematoria emissions from the deceased and sewage sludge that is sold to farmers. These significant mercury sources result in air, water, and food contamination that consequently have a negative impact on human health. Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment. Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on M...
The term "biocompatibility" has been gaining recognition, not only in medicine, but particularly ... more The term "biocompatibility" has been gaining recognition, not only in medicine, but particularly in dentistry. It basically means, biocompatible materials should not have a negative impact on the recipient. Currently, there are literally thousands of different components that makeup the materials that are used in common dental procedures, with more being developed each year. Scientific literature is now reporting on the importance of using the most biocompatible material for the patient. Research is finding that not only using the least reactive material is important, but also how that material may interact with other materials that may have already been implanted into the oral cavity. Unfortunately, even today, dental procedures are often designed simply for the functionality of the treatment, or for cosmetic purposes, even though it is well established that all foreign materials introduced into the human body will elicit an immune response. Therefore, materials that are being used, which are not investigated for reactivity prior to treatment, pose a potential risk of toxicity, or allergic reaction to the individual patient. Since the mouth is considered the most hostile environment in the human body, it is critical to understand and evaluate the long-term effects of dental materials, since these materials are often used due their lasting durability.
The controversy between pharmaceutical drugs and supplements is ever present in global society, e... more The controversy between pharmaceutical drugs and supplements is ever present in global society, especially now, in the media during the current Covid-19 virus. One of the most important, yet, provocative supplements is vitamin C. While historically, its positive benefits have long been known, during the last decades the push for pharmaceutical drugs, instead of supplements like vitamin C, has created a heated debate against this, and other very affordable supplements.
Whole body health is directly linked to oral health. While the “Focal Infection Theory”, had been... more Whole body health is directly linked to oral health. While the “Focal Infection Theory”, had been dismissed, many common procedures such as root canals, dental implants, nickel braces, and ordinary tooth extractions are being investigated as the causation of diseases. For example, current research has shown that 30-40% of chronic maxillary sinusitis cases are caused by oral conditions, dental infections and dental extractions may be a predisposing risk factor for conceivable life- threatening infections of the head and neck. This short communication investigates the importance of oral health and why medical and dental professionals need to join forces for the best patient outcomes.
Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting f... more Background. Mercury in dental amalgam is a hidden source of global mercury pollution, resulting from the illegal diversion of dental mercury into the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, to crematoria emissions from the deceased and sewage sludge that is sold to farmers. These significant mercury sources result in air, water, and food contamination that consequently have a negative impact on human health. Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment. Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty,” “Sewage Sludge,” “Cremation,” and “Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining.” Data were included on the most populous countries of China, India, the United States, Brazil, and the European Union collectively. We also included data on cremation statistics and current global trends, looking at populations where cremation is a common practice, such as Japan and India. Discussion. Dental amalgam represents a significant, but understudied area of global mercury pollution that includes cremation, sewage sludge, burial, and small-scale gold mining. Conclusions. Mercury used in products and processes, including dental amalgams, is a global pollutant. Even after the last mercury dental amalgam is placed, its toxic legacy will continue for decades, because of its pervasive bioaccumulation in the environment. Government regulatory agencies should make it mandatory to utilize available technologies, not only in developing countries, but also in developed countries, to reduce mercury contamination. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests. Keywords. mercury dental amalgam, Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, sewage sludge, cremation, artisanal and small-scale gold mining
1 | INTRODUC TI ON Titanium is widely distributed and constitutes 0.44% of the earth's crust. The... more 1 | INTRODUC TI ON Titanium is widely distributed and constitutes 0.44% of the earth's crust. The metal is found combined in practically all rocks, sand, clay, and other soils. It is also present in plants, animals, natural waters, deep-sea dredg-ings, meteorites, and stars. Ti's atomic number is 22. 1 Ultrafine Ti dioxide (TiO 2) is commonly used in a number of applications, including food additives , food packaging material, sunscreens, cosmetic creams, and as a component of surgical implants. There are rising concerns over exposure to TiO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) during critical windows, such as pregnancy and lactation, for women and men of reproductive age, and last but not least, childhood exposure to high cumulative doses. 2 We have included in our discussion various source points of Ti and how its use with other metals may lead to increased health risks due to galvanic corrosion. 2 | TITANIUM DIOXIDE NANOPARTICLE S (TI O 2 NPS) The cytotoxic effect of Ti particles is size dependent, since they must be smaller than that of cells. 3 TiO 2 exists naturally, mainly in the form of three crystalline structures: rutile, anatasa, and brookite. In Ti implants, the passivant oxide layer is made up of anatasa and rutile or anatasa alone. 4 Ti in dentistry is widely used as an implant in the form of membranes, grids, reduction plates, screws, and distrac-tors, among other applications. In 2009, about 300 000 patients in the United States received dental implants. Since no metal or alloy is entirely inert, in vivo corrosion can occur. 4 Khan et al 5 compared the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of zinc oxide NPs (ZnO) and TiO 2 NPs using various concentrations. Both NPs were found to create reactive oxygen species (ROS) concomitant with the depletion of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) levels and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), chloramphenicol acetyl trans-ferase (CAT), and lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. Both NPs exerted roughly equal oxidative stress in terms of the above stress markers. This study affirmed that ROS generation is the main mechanism to cause various types of toxicities by ZnO and TiO 2 NPs. These results clearly suggest that both ZnO and TiO 2 NPs are significantly cytotoxic, and also genotoxic at all concentrations with respect to untreated samples or controls. While comparing with ionic forms, no significant difference was found. 5 Ghosh et al 6 evaluated the toxic effects of commercial TiO 2 NPs by using a series of Abstract Historically, titanium (Ti) has maintained the reputation of being an inert and relatively biocompatible metal, suitable for use in both medical and dental prosthesis. There are many published articles supporting these views, but there is recent scientific evidence that Ti, or its corrosive by-products, may cause harmful reactions in humans. It is important for all medical and dental professionals to understand the implications, complexities, and all potential pathways of exposure to this metal. These exposures are not only from the environment but also through various commonly used products in medicine that are often completely overlooked. These external (in-termittent) and internal (constant) exposures have an impact on whole-body health. This review examines possible harmful effects, risks, and often ignored potential complications of Ti exposure to human health. K E Y W O R D S electromagnetic frequency, nanoparticles, titanium dental implants This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.
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Papers by Anita Tibau
is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety
since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of
mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into
force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only
product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”.
While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human
health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into
force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the
use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However,
a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant
findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury
History” in the dental sector.
Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment.
Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty,” “Sewage Sludge,” “Cremation,” and “Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining.” Data were included on the most populous countries of China, India, the United States, Brazil, and the European Union collectively. We also included data on cremation statistics and current global trends, looking at populations where cremation is a common practice, such as Japan and India.
Discussion. Dental amalgam represents a significant, but understudied area of global mercury pollution that includes cremation, sewage sludge, burial, and small-scale gold mining. Conclusions. Mercury used in products and processes, including dental amalgams, is a global pollutant. Even after the last mercury dental amalgam is placed, its toxic legacy will continue for decades, because of its pervasive bioaccumulation in the environment. Government regulatory agencies should make it mandatory to utilize available technologies, not only in developing countries, but also in developed countries, to reduce mercury contamination. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests.
Keywords. mercury dental amalgam, Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, sewage sludge, cremation, artisanal and small-scale gold mining
is the most toxic non-radioactive material known to man, there has been an ongoing controversy about its safety
since it was first introduced for use in dentistry. In 2013, a global treaty was adopted to address the dangers of
mercury-containing products and processes called the Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, which went into
force in 2017. This global mercury treaty listed mercury dental amalgam as a “phase-down” product. It is the only
product in the treaty that is implanted in the human body and the only product listed simply as “phase-down”.
While many evidence-based scientific papers have reported that mercury dental amalgam negatively affects human
health, it is still the most commonly used dental restorative material in the world. Since the treaty has gone into
force, many developed countries, countries with emerging economies, and developing countries have banned the
use of mercury dental amalgam in the spirit of the treaty whose mantra is “Make Mercury History”. However,
a date certain to ban mercury dental amalgam’s use globally has not yet been achieved. The latest significant
findings on human exposure to mercury dental amalgam using the “Gold Standard” National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey (NHANES) database, may finally be the catalyst that will achieve the goal and “Make Mercury
History” in the dental sector.
Objectives. The aim of the present study was to investigate and report on all of the various pathways mercury in dental amalgam can enter the environment.
Methods. The present study searched the electronic data bases of PubMed and Google Scholar. Peer reviewed journals and references of studies included for full-text review were examined for potentially relevant studies. Articles published between 2000 to 2018 were searched and specifically screened for articles that referenced “Dental Amalgam,” and the following key words in various combinations: “Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty,” “Sewage Sludge,” “Cremation,” and “Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining.” Data were included on the most populous countries of China, India, the United States, Brazil, and the European Union collectively. We also included data on cremation statistics and current global trends, looking at populations where cremation is a common practice, such as Japan and India.
Discussion. Dental amalgam represents a significant, but understudied area of global mercury pollution that includes cremation, sewage sludge, burial, and small-scale gold mining. Conclusions. Mercury used in products and processes, including dental amalgams, is a global pollutant. Even after the last mercury dental amalgam is placed, its toxic legacy will continue for decades, because of its pervasive bioaccumulation in the environment. Government regulatory agencies should make it mandatory to utilize available technologies, not only in developing countries, but also in developed countries, to reduce mercury contamination. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests.
Keywords. mercury dental amalgam, Minamata Convention on Mercury Treaty, sewage sludge, cremation, artisanal and small-scale gold mining