In brief: BDA’s statement on EU amalgam ban, research linking flossing with decreased stroke risk, and Los Angeles County relief fund

Amalgam was banned in the UK—what now?

Last year, the European Parliament voted to ban dental amalgam in the UK beginning January 1, 2025. Although the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still considers amalgam fillings to be safe for children over the age of six, the European Commission's rapid phase-out of this material is coming much sooner than many expected.¹

Prohibiting the manufacture and export of dental amalgam will severely affect countries in the United Kingdom, particularly Northern Ireland-whose residents have the highest proportion of filled teeth. Right now, there are no alternative restorative materials that can match or exceed amalgam in terms of longevity and placement speed. This may cause significant economic challenges for UK dentists and dental practices.¹

The British Dental Association (BDA) is rallying for a revision of this ban, asserting that this phase-out is "neither feasible nor justifiable."

Flossing once a week decreases stroke risk, study finds

Flossing may be a commonly overlooked part of oral health-care routines, but it can reduce the risk of an ischemic stroke. Recent research suggests flossing once a week can reduce stroke risk by 22% by preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria and plaque, which can cause inflammation, blood clots, and heart disease.²

Regular flossers are also 44% less likely to have a cardioembolic stroke and 12% less likely to be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which can cause heart palpitations.

Another recent study by the American Stroke Association noted that a common type of bacteria that is found in the mouth and gut causes tooth decay as well as an increased stroke risk. Patients can target this harmful oral bacterium by adopting healthy habits, reducing sugar intake, and maintaining a regular oral care routine.²

California Dental Association launches Southern California wildlife relief fund

In the wake of the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, the California Dental Association (CDA) has opened a relief fund for those affected and displaced by this tragedy. They are accepting tax-deductible donations that will directly support the safety and recovery of dental professionals impacted by the fires. 100% of proceeds go towards supporting this cause.3

The CDA Foundation is dedicated to creating lasting, positive change for dental staff and the vulnerable population. Click here if you are interested in donating or learning more.

References

1. The amalgam ban: What you need to know. British Dental Association. January 17, 2025. https://www.bda.org/news-and-opinion/news/the-amalgam-ban-what-you-need-to-know/

2. Flossing your teeth once a week 'cuts risk of stroke by one fifth.' The Times. January 30, 2025. https://www.thetimes.com/uk/healthcare/article/flossing-your-teeth-once-a-week-cuts-risk-of-stroke-by-one-fifth-d8lcqbb3q?region=global

3. Southern California wildfire relief fund. California Dental Association. January 2025. https://www.cda.org/about/cda-foundation/