AQW 9145/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 19/03/2024
Answered On Date: 04/04/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the impact of a ban on amalgam fillings in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail how he can prevent this ban from being implemented here.

Answer:

I am very concerned about the practical implications of the revised law. I think they will be significant and persisting both in terms of cost and capacity.

In 2022/23 dentists placed 201k amalgam fillings. Approximately 31% of Health Service fillings are amalgam and this number rises to 64% for posterior teeth, where the larger fillings are needed.

In particular, I am concerned about the impact on capacity, which is already struggling as a result of the pandemic, as non-amalgam fillings can take two or three times longer to place, depending on a number of factors.

We have estimated the cost as being £3.6m to the Department per annum and £2.75m in total for patients. However, increases in the price of amalgam and non-amalgam are anticipated, so the overall costs could be more.

The law will come into effect in Northern Ireland in January 2025 without the successful deployment of the Stormont Brake. The Democratic Scrutiny Committee have an important role in assessing the significance of any impact of the changes in the law. My Department has briefed them of our concerns, will be providing further evidence to them in April 2024 and will continue to support them as much as possible.