GAP Australasian-Dentist-May June 2019

Category AustrAlAsiAn Dentist 105 “At theunitednations, iwas fortunate to have conversations with experts on the issue and it was helpful understanding the big picture relating to dental amalgam and the Minamata Convention.” Dr sardon has come to accept that phasing down the use of dental amalgam is, for now, the most realistic approach and even this will require a shift in mindset. “Dental amalgam use will be reduced, but still, users need to ensure that an environmentally sound management is in place at all stages of its lifecycle, including: source separation; collection; transportation; treatment; storage; and disposal.” “even dentists that are not using dental amalgam but are removing it should make sure measures are in place to stop dental amalgam waste from reaching into the environment.” Although Australia signed on the agreement in 2013, it has yet to ratify the Minamata Convention. Meanwhile, 107 out of 128 signatories have already ratified the global treaty, including both developed and developing nations. According to the Australian Government website, ratifying parties commit their countries to “address proFIle mercury throughout its lifecycle ...including its unintentional release from industrial activity, though to end-of-life aspects including waste, contaminated sites, and long-term storage.” regulated under the Convention, dental amalgams must be phased down through a number of measures, including: u using cost and clinically effective mercury-free alternatives for dental restoration u Only using dental amalgam in its encapsulated form u Promoting the use of best environmental practices in dental facilities. “i think that Australia is in the position to mirror the actions taken by other developed countries. For example, a recent eu regulation restricts dentists to only use dental amalgam capsules, mandates the proper handling and collection of dental amalgam, and requires facilities to have amalgam separators installed. it also prohibits the use of dental amalgam in deciduous teeth, in children under 15 years old, and in pregnant or breastfeeding women unless strictly necessary.” “the government can lead the way by ratifying the treaty and putting forward Global Workshop on Promoting dental amalgam phase down measures under the Minamata Convention and other initiatives, for “especially women, children, and, through them, future generations” Bangkok, Thailand regulations like this one, but we also need the involvement of several stakeholders to achieve a successful phase down approach.” suffice to say, other stakeholders need to pull their own weight on the matter as well. these include: Academia, nGOs, Colleges, Manufacturers, Waste Management Companies, and of course, the dental workforce. “i believe that Australia has the capacity to take on board the treaty. Changing established attitudes and practices – especially one involving making financial commitments – is always difficult but still worth prodding.” the issue affects not just dentists, Dr sardon reminds us, but the Australian population as a whole – and needs to be supported by the general public. “Mercury in the environment can be transported and transferred globally through air, water, and soil which means that we are all at risk when it is not properly handled.” “We need to act now. this issue is bigger than us and the challenges shouldn’t stop us from organising efforts to build momentum for change, one organisation and one person at a time.” u Contact 0414 836 296 | independentdentist.com.au | merv@independentdentist.com.au Want to be a part of a group of like-minded dentists, who still think dental care is a service meant to help the health of our patients rather than a commodity, acquired at the cheapest price? It is difficult as an individual practice to differentiate yourself from the slick marketing of large budget third party providers. Independent Dentists need to work together to compete in a challenging practising environment. Join IDN today