The World Health Organization recently launched new guidelines to improve dental care while protecting our fragile global environment today. These evidence-based recommendations help countries manage dental caries using sustainable methods that prioritize patient safety and clinical quality. Furthermore, the guideline Environmentally friendly and less invasive oral health care for preventing and managing dental caries presents a comprehensive package of safe, effective, and mercury-free clinical interventions for patients of all ages.
This landmark publication reflects the latest scientific evidence on prevention and non-invasive care for billions of people worldwide.
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Combatting the World’s Most Common Disease
Dental caries remains the most common noncommunicable disease globally, currently affecting an estimated 2.7 billion people across every continent. This disease often begins in early childhood and disproportionately impacts underserved populations who lack access to quality medical care.
Historically, dental professionals relied heavily on restorative treatments using dental amalgam, which contains mercury and poses significant health risks. Consequently, the new WHO guidelines advocate for a shift toward safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional dental fillings.
Phasing Out Mercury for Planetary Health
The new recommendations respond to global commitments to phase out mercury use under the critical Minamata Convention on Mercury. By promoting mercury-free products, the WHO supports countries in meeting their international obligations while strengthening broader oral health agendas.
Importantly, these less invasive clinical procedures effectively stop and manage dental caries while providing a more sustainable alternative today. Experts believe that oral health care must continue to evolve to support both human well-being and planetary health.
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Achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030
The guideline advances the implementation of the WHO Global Oral Health Action Plan 2023–2030 for all member countries. This plan calls for universal access to essential, preventive, and curative oral health services as part of primary care. By prioritizing prevention and scaling up minimally invasive interventions, the WHO provides a strong technical foundation for global health. Ultimately, these recommendations align dental care with broader commitments on climate action and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
recommendations grounded in the best available scientific evidence
The guideline provides eight recommendations and two best practice statements, supported by robust evidence that includes systematic reviews on clinical performance, toxicology, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact. Key areas of focus include:
- population-wide preventive interventions, including a strong recommendation for fluoride varnish, and targeted interventions such as pit and fissure sealants for children at high risk of caries;
- non-invasive management, such as fluoride varnish for initial caries lesions and biannual silver diamine fluoride to stop moderate caries lesions;
- mercury-free restorations, with guidance on the use of glass ionomer cements and resin-based composites;
- safety requirements with protocols for handling resin-based materials to protect patients and health personnel; and
- special considerations for vulnerable groups, including individuals with allergies, and limiting BPA (bisphenol A) derivative products among children, adolescents, and pregnant or breastfeeding women.
The guideline also provides actionable guidance for governments, ministries of health and environment, professional associations and front-line health workers to:
- integrate mercury-free products and non-invasive or minimally invasive interventions into national oral health policies and practices;
- strengthen training, curricula and clinical protocols;
- reduce environmental impact through improved waste management, sustainable procurement and supply chains; and
- expand access to oral health services through primary health care and community-based delivery models.
In addition, the guideline identifies key research gaps, particularly in the long‑term effectiveness and cost‑effectiveness of interventions, monitoring of occupational exposure and environmental impact of mercury‑free materials. It calls for strengthened global collaboration to advance evidence and drive innovation in oral health care.
Expert Q&A: Sustainable Dentistry
Q: Why is the WHO moving away from traditional dental amalgam?
A: Dental amalgam contains mercury, which poses documented risks to human health and the environment during use and disposal.
Q: What does “minimally invasive management” mean for a patient?
A: It involves using techniques that preserve more of the natural tooth structure while effectively stopping the decay process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main goal of the new WHO dental guidelines?
The goal is to promote environmentally sustainable and less invasive dental care that ensures patient safety and environmental protection.
How many people are currently affected by dental caries?
Approximately 2.7 billion people worldwide suffer from dental caries, making it the most common noncommunicable disease on Earth.
What is the Minamata Convention on Mercury?
It is an international treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from the adverse effects of mercury.
How do the new guidelines support Universal Health Coverage?
They provide a technical framework to integrate essential, affordable, and safe oral health services into national primary healthcare systems.
Is mercury-free dental care as effective as traditional methods?
Yes, the WHO states that strong evidence shows mercury-free products can effectively prevent, stop, and manage dental caries.