NIOM was established in 1972, as a joint Nordic institute located close to Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo.

A programme for testing and certification of dental biomaterials on the Nordic market was established, and the first lists of certified materials were published in 1974.

Today, the Institute maintains its competency in the accredited testing of dental biomaterials, and promotes this activity with manufacturers and regulatory bodies.

The provision of an accredited laboratory service to industry, health authorities and other parties remains one of NIOM's core activities.

The institute collaborates with universities and research centres in dentistry, medicine and materials science in the Nordic countries and worldwide.

Research underpins both standardization activities and the information and recommendations provided to health authorities, the dental profession and the public.

Consultancies cover questions related to properties, performance, safety and development of dental biomaterials.