Dentists' restorative decision-making and implications for an 'amalgamless' profession. Part 3: Dentists' attitudes

Area of Science:

• Dental Materials Science
• Public Health Policy
• Environmental Health

Background:

• The Minamata Convention mandates global reductions in mercury use, impacting dental restorative materials.
• This international agreement necessitates a shift in future dental practice concerning direct restorative materials.
• Limited research exists on dentists' perspectives regarding these impending changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Australian dentists' attitudes towards the phase-down of mercury-containing dental amalgam.
• To explore factors influencing dentists' responses to potential changes in restorative material use.
• To identify knowledge gaps and concerns among dental professionals regarding amalgam reduction.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to dentists affiliated with the Australian Dental Association and the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.
• Data collected from the survey were subjected to statistical analysis.
• The survey assessed attitudes towards amalgam phase-down based on usage, qualification year, and academic affiliation.

Main Results:

• 408 dentists responded to the survey.
• Attitudes towards amalgam phase-down varied based on individual amalgam use, year of dental qualification, and academic association.
• 30% of respondents reported not using amalgam, with an average amalgam use of 18% across all direct restorative procedures.

Conclusions:

• Dentists harbor concerns about the implications of phasing down dental amalgam.
• A significant portion of dentists remain undecided, suggesting a potential lack of understanding of the issues.
• Policy-makers must disseminate clear information to address dentists' concerns and inform decision-making regarding restorative materials.