Dental amalgam has been a cornerstone of restorative dentistry for over 150 years, prized for its durability, strength, and cost-effectiveness. However, as we approach 2025, the landscape of dental materials is undergoing a significant transformation. Environmental concerns, regulatory changes, and shifting patient preferences are reshaping the dental amalgam industry.
This article delves into the evolving world of dental restorative materials, exploring top suppliers, innovative alternatives, and the factors driving change. We’ll examine how leading manufacturers are adapting their offerings to meet new demands while maintaining the high standards of quality and performance that dental professionals expect. Whether you’re a dentist, patient, or industry professional, understanding these trends is crucial for making informed decisions about dental care in the coming years.
Overview
Dental amalgam usage is declining globally in 2025 due to aesthetic preferences and environmental concerns, despite its continued importance in certain clinical situations. The European Union banned dental amalgam on January 1, 2025, with exceptions for specific medical needs, and will prohibit manufacturing and import from July 1, 2026. However, the global dental restorative supplies market, including amalgam, is projected to reach $6 billion by 2030, growing at a 5% CAGR.
The market’s growth is driven by an aging population, increasing dental issues, advancements in dental materials, rising health awareness, and expanding dental tourism. While Europe has taken a strong stance against amalgam, other regions continue to use it, creating varied market dynamics worldwide. As the industry evolves, alternative materials and techniques are reshaping restorative dentistry globally, with the market expected to reach $24.0 billion in 2025.
Top Dental Amalgam Suppliers
Southern Dental Industries Limited (SDI)
Southern Dental Industries Limited (SDI) is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of dental materials, with a significant presence in the dental amalgam market.
Website: www.sdi.com.au
Business Type: Research, development, manufacturing, and marketing of specialist dental materials
Headquarters: Bayswater, Victoria, Australia
Main Markets: Over 100 countries worldwide, with offices and warehouses in the USA, Germany, and Brazil
Establishment Year: 1972
Certificates/Awards: Listed on the Australian Stock Exchange since 1985
Southern Dental Industries (SDI) stands out as a global leader in dental materials manufacturing, with a 50-year track record of excellence. Their comprehensive range includes cutting-edge dental composites, glass ionomers, adhesives, and whitening solutions, reflecting SDI’s unwavering commitment to innovation and meeting the dynamic needs of dental professionals globally.
SDI’s state-of-the-art production facility in Victoria, Australia, ensures top-tier quality control and compliance with international benchmarks. The company’s expansive distribution network reaches practitioners in over 100 countries, solidifying SDI’s position as a premier provider of dental supplies worldwide. Recent launches like Luna 2 and Pola for Aligners showcase SDI’s agility in adapting to market shifts. SDI’s vertically integrated model, spanning R&D to marketing, enables the maintenance of superior quality while staying price-competitive. Notably, SDI plans to phase out dental amalgam production by 2028, demonstrating responsiveness to industry evolution and environmental stewardship.
Ivoclar
Ivoclar is a global leader in the dental industry, renowned for its innovative dental products and systems for dentists and dental technicians. While not primarily focused on dental amalgam, the company has positioned itself as a pioneer in developing alternative materials and solutions for modern dentistry.
Website: ivoclar.com
Business Type: Manufacturer of dental products and systems
Headquarters: Schaan, Liechtenstein
Main Markets: Global presence, serving approximately 130 countries worldwide
Establishment Year: 1923
Certificates/Awards: Various industry recognitions (specific awards not mentioned in the search results)
Ivoclar has emerged as a leader in dental innovation, offering a diverse range of products in digital dentistry, direct restoratives, fixed prosthetics, and removable prosthetics. With a robust research and development team of over 240 professionals, Ivoclar collaborates with universities and scientific institutions globally to drive advancements in dental technology.
The company’s strength lies in its ability to deliver integrated solutions for high-quality dental applications. Ivoclar has consistently set industry standards with groundbreaking products such as the IPS Empress porcelain system and the IPS e.max lithium disilicate glass-ceramic. These innovations have established benchmarks in the field, particularly in direct restoratives, where the Tetric line of composite materials is recognized for its superior physical properties and aesthetics.
Ivoclar’s commitment to digital solutions is exemplified by its Ivotion Denture System and the PrograWorld product range, which enhance the workflow from impression-taking to restoration fabrication. With around 3,600 employees and operations in 30 countries, Ivoclar boasts significant production capacity and global reach. Its value proposition centers on a century of expertise, continuous innovation, and a dedication to improving oral health worldwide, making it a trusted partner for dental professionals seeking high-quality, aesthetic solutions.
Silmet
Silmet is a leading manufacturer and global supplier of dental amalgam and other dental restorative materials, with a strong presence in the international dental industry.
Website: www.silmetdental.com
Business Type: Dental materials manufacturing and distribution
Headquarters: Sillamäe, Estonia
Main Markets: Global, with significant presence in Europe and international markets
Establishment Year: 1967
Certificates/Awards: EU Certificate for dental amalgam production (valid until December 31, 2028)
Silmet stands as a global leader in dental restorative materials, offering an extensive array of products including its renowned dental amalgam. The company’s cutting-edge facilities boast a multi-chambered amalgam production plant, advanced quality control systems, and state-of-the-art production lines for amalgam capsules and Non-Gamma dispersion amalgams.
Over 50 years of industry expertise has enabled Silmet to develop a comprehensive portfolio of dental materials. Their flagship Spherodon M series of amalgam alloys, containing up to 45.5% silver, exemplifies their commitment to quality. Silmet’s offerings extend beyond amalgam to include a wide range of consumable dental restoratives, meeting the diverse needs of dental professionals worldwide.
Silmet’s innovative approach is highlighted by its Private Label and Co-Branding services, fostering collaborations with prominent European dental brands like Nordiska and BMS Dental. This strategy has solidified Silmet’s market position and expanded its global footprint, establishing the company as a key player in the dental materials industry.
The company distinguishes itself through its ability to deliver cost-effective, durable dental amalgam products while adapting to evolving market demands and regulatory requirements. Silmet’s manufacturing prowess and flexible business model allow it to provide customized solutions to both dental professionals and distributors, reinforcing its status as a trusted partner in the global dental supply chain.
Henry Schein
Henry Schein is a leading global distributor of dental supplies and equipment, including dental amalgam products, serving as a trusted partner for dental professionals worldwide.
Website: www.henryschein.com
Business Type: Distributor of dental and medical supplies, equipment, and services
Headquarters: Melville, New York, United States
Main Markets: Global presence in 33 countries and territories
Establishment Year: 1932
Certificates/Awards: Named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for 13 consecutive years; Equality 100 Award recipient for LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion for 8 consecutive years
Henry Schein dominates the dental supply industry as North America’s premier provider, boasting a vast catalog of 300,000+ branded and private label products. With five strategically located mega distribution centers spanning over 2 million square feet, the company achieves an impressive 96% fill rate and next-day delivery for 93% of its clientele.
As a leading dental materials supplier, Henry Schein offers a wide array of high-quality dental alloys and amalgams from top manufacturers. Leveraging its market position, the company secures competitive pricing and passes savings directly to dental practices. This value-driven approach, combined with advanced logistics handling 43 million annual shipments, positions Henry Schein as a trusted partner for dental professionals. Beyond supplies, the company provides cutting-edge technology solutions, practice management software, and comprehensive business services, empowering dentists to streamline operations and elevate patient care. With 90+ years of industry experience, Henry Schein continues to innovate, adapt to market shifts, and support the evolving needs of modern dental practices.
DMG America
DMG America is a leading provider of high-quality dental materials and innovative solutions for dental professionals across North America. The company has established itself as a trusted partner in the dental industry, offering a wide range of products that streamline daily routines and enhance patient care.
Website: www.dmg-america.com
Business Type: Manufacturer and distributor of professional dental materials
Headquarters: Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, USA
Main Markets: United States and Canada
Establishment Year: 1982 (as Zenith Dental, rebranded to DMG America in 2008)
Certificates/Awards: ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 13485:2003 certifications
DMG America, a leading dental materials innovator, has revolutionized the North American market with its cutting-edge technologies and clinically proven products. The company’s extensive portfolio, developed through rigorous research and testing, encompasses a wide range of dental solutions, from temporary and permanent restorative materials to impression products and preventive care offerings.
At the forefront of DMG America’s success is its pioneering automix technology, exemplified by Luxatemp, the industry’s first cartridge-based provisional restorative material. This breakthrough paved the way for other game-changing products like LuxaCore, a top-tier core build-up material, and Icon, the inaugural solution for treating early-stage caries without drilling. DMG America’s unwavering commitment to quality is reflected in its advanced manufacturing processes, stringent quality control, and ISO certifications. By continuously investing in R&D, the company creates sophisticated dental solutions that enhance efficiency and expand possibilities for practitioners. DMG America’s unique blend of German engineering prowess and deep understanding of North American dental practices, coupled with its “Quality meets future” ethos, ensures dental professionals have access to state-of-the-art materials and techniques that optimize patient care and practice performance.
Comparison of Dental Amalgam Suppliers
| Supplier | Market Focus | Production Status | Alternative Products | Environmental Stance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SDI | Global | Ceasing by 2028 | Developing alternatives | Transitioning away from amalgam |
| Ivoclar Vivadent | US Only | Ongoing for US | Offers alternatives | Limited production |
| Silmet | Global | Ongoing | Co-branding services | Continues production |
| Henry Schein | Global | Ongoing | Diverse product range | Ethical company recognition |
| DMG America | US Only | Ongoing for US | Offers alternatives | Discontinued in other markets |
Composite resin fillings and their advantages
Tooth-colored composite restorations have gained significant popularity in modern dentistry, offering a blend of aesthetic and functional benefits that make them a top choice for both patients and dental professionals. These innovative fillings present numerous advantages over traditional amalgam options, revolutionizing dental care practices.
Benefits of Composite Dental Fillings
Natural Appearance
A key advantage of composite fillings is their ability to match natural tooth color seamlessly. This feature allows for virtually invisible restorations, especially crucial in visible areas of the mouth. Patients can smile confidently, knowing their dental work remains undetectable.
Tooth-Preserving Technique
Composite fillings require minimal removal of healthy tooth structure, preserving more of the natural tooth compared to amalgam alternatives. This conservative approach maintains tooth strength and integrity while reducing the risk of weakening the overall structure.
Enhanced Tooth Bonding
These fillings create a strong, direct bond with the tooth surface, forming a tight seal that can reinforce the tooth. This robust connection helps minimize the risk of future decay around the restoration and improves its longevity.
Multi-Purpose Applications
Composite restorations excel in versatility, serving various dental needs. They’re suitable for:
- Cavity repair in front and back teeth
- Aesthetic enhancements like tooth reshaping and gap closure
- Fixing minor chips and cracks
- Post-root canal tooth sealing
- Replacing existing fillings
Reduced Temperature Sensitivity
Patients typically experience less post-treatment sensitivity with composite fillings compared to amalgam options. The material acts as an insulator, shielding the tooth from temperature fluctuations and minimizing discomfort from hot or cold foods and beverages.
Rapid Hardening Process
Composite materials harden quickly, often within seconds, due to specialized curing light technology. This swift setting allows for immediate tooth use and shorter dental appointments.
Potential Fluoride Benefits
Some composite materials are engineered to release fluoride, aiding in tooth remineralization and offering protection against future decay. This feature contributes to long-term oral health maintenance.
Weighing the Options
While composite fillings offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks such as a possibly shorter lifespan and higher cost compared to amalgam options. However, the combination of aesthetic appeal, minimally invasive application, strong bonding, and reduced sensitivity makes composite restorations an excellent choice for many dental procedures, providing a modern solution that prioritizes both appearance and function in dental care.
The environmental impact of dental materials
Dental materials’ ecological footprint has become a critical focus in modern dentistry. As the field progresses towards sustainable dental practices, understanding the environmental effects of various dental products is essential.
Mercury-containing dental amalgam poses significant ecological risks. Its disposal can lead to water contamination and harm aquatic ecosystems. For every 90,000 kg of mercury used in restorations, approximately 100 kg enters the environment. To address this, dental offices now employ ISO 11143-compliant amalgam separators and implement proper waste management protocols.
While perceived as more eco-friendly, resin-based composites (RBCs) contribute to microplastic pollution and can release harmful components into landfills. Ceramic dental materials, including porcelain and zirconia, present challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature and the environmental costs of mining and manufacturing.
The industry is embracing eco-conscious alternatives such as bioactive glass and resin-modified glass ionomers, which offer reduced environmental impact and promote dental tissue healing. Research into energy-efficient ceramics and the use of recycled materials is ongoing. Some practices have adopted biodegradable dental products like bamboo toothbrushes.
Effective waste management plays a crucial role in minimizing dental materials’ environmental impact. Dental offices are implementing recycling programs for various materials and transitioning to digital dentistry to reduce paper and film X-ray usage. The industry is shifting towards biodegradable, recyclable, and BPA-free materials, while also focusing on energy efficiency and water conservation in dental practices.
By addressing these environmental concerns, the dental industry is working towards a more sustainable future that balances patient care with ecological responsibility.
Conclusion
The dental amalgam industry is at a crossroads, with major suppliers like SDI planning to phase out production while others continue to serve specific markets. As we move towards 2025, the focus is shifting towards alternative restorative materials and environmentally friendly options. Dentists and patients alike should stay informed about these changes and consider the available alternatives when making decisions about dental restorations.
