CDE Programs: Toxics Link conducted several CDE (Continuing Dental Education) programs in collaboration with the state IDAs. These CDE programs were conducted with an objective of creating awareness among the dental students and practicing dentists, about the mercury toxicity issue and its impact on environment and human health.

Chennai CDE:   It was conducted in Ragas Dental College on 21st July 2017, in collaboration with Madras IDA. Apart from lecture on the Minamata convention, Dental amalgam management in private clinics and global scenario in relation to phasing out of dental amalgam, there was also a panel discussion where the future of dentistry was discussed. The discussion brought about the facts related to the use of alternatives of dental amalgam and the pros and cons of doing so.

Fig1 & 2: Chennai CDE with IDA Madras   

Sharda University CDE: It was conducted on 13th September 2017 in Sharda University.  Delhi, NCR.  This program addressed the undergraduate and post graduate dental students and the faculty members. A panel discussion was held with the senior faculty of the dental college to capture their point of view. Most of the professors were of the view that dental amalgam usage should be reduced and that the current undergraduate syllabus needs to change. This served as a motivation for the young budding dentists to opt for mercury free practice.

Fig 3: Sharda University CDE                                Fig 4: Meeting with dental faculty of Sharda University

National stakeholder meeting: It was conducted on 2nd February 2018. All the major stakeholders in the field of dentistry had gathered to learn about the ill effects of mercury. This meeting also marked the launch of the dental poster for creating awareness amongst the general public who visit the dental clinics. 250 posters were distributed to Clove dental chain of clinics to spread the word.

Fig 5: National Stakeholder meeting on Mercury Free Dentistry