We work to promote patient safety

The Nordic Institute of Dental Materials (NIOM) works to ensure that dental biomaterials are safe and effective. We undertake research, participate in standardisation and provide clinically relevant advice to the dental health services and health authorities in the Nordic countries.

NIOM offers research-based consultancy and accredited testing according to international standards. Our independent test laboratory delivers accurate and independent data accepted for third-party evaluations of dental materials and instruments.

We are responsible for promoting a continuing Nordic collaboration in the field of dental biomaterials. NIOM maintains a distinct Nordic profile through broad contacts with the Nordic dental educational institutions and research centers. Our research and consulting are required to be scientifically founded and applicable to clinical dentistry.

NIOM leads and provides the secretariat for the National Network Group for Research and Innovation in Oral Health. The group includes representatives from Norway’s universities and colleges that train oral-health professionals, regional competence centres, NIOM, county municipalities and private dentists, with observers from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Directorate of Health. It was established by the Ministry of Health and Care Services to advance the strategy ‘Together for a Knowledge Lift in Oral Health – Research and Innovation Strategy in the Dental Health Field (2017-2027)’.

Furthermore, the Dental Biomaterials Adverse Reaction Unit, which is a part of NIOM, assesses reports of adverse reactions in Norway and works to gain stronger collaboration with clinical and regulatory actors, aiming to share expertise on material safety across the Nordic region.