The rules have changed in relation to providing amalgam fillings to non-UK residents. Since 1 January 2025, dental amalgam can only be used in Northern Ireland for patients living in the United Kingdom. Provision of a home address in the UK by a patient can be taken as confirmation that the patient resides in the UK.
The legal requirements are applicable to all dental settings, both Health Service and private, across Northern Ireland. As before, such treatment can only be carried out by a dental practitioner registered for that purpose in Northern Ireland.
The export of dental amalgam from Northern Ireland to outside the UK is prohibited. Also, the import of dental amalgam destined for dental practitioners in Northern Ireland will need to be commensurate to use.
For patients who do not reside in the UK but are eligible for Health Service dental care, dentists should claim payment for alternative restorations by prior approval for a discretionary fee under code 4001.
Practice policies and procedures should therefore be updated to ensure compliance with these requirements.
Learn more about the new rules on the prohibition of dental amalgam for non-UK residents.
Read the letter on the amalgam ban from Caroline Lappin, Chief Dental Officer, Northern Ireland.