Amalgam

Overview of dental amalgam used in dentistry

  [[File:File:Dental amalgam.jpg|frameless|alt=]]

Type	Dental material
Properties	|-| | Density || |-| | Melting point || |-| | Boiling point || |-| | Thermal conductivity || |-| | Electrical resistivity ||
Uses	Dental fillings
Discovered by	[[]]
Year discovered

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Dental amalgam is a liquid mercury and metal alloy mixture used in dentistry to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. Dental amalgam is a common material used for dental restorations and has been used for over 150 years in millions of patients around the world.

Composition

Dental amalgam is composed of a mixture of metals. The typical composition includes:

• Mercury (Hg) - approximately 50%
• Silver (Ag) - 22-32%
• Tin (Sn) - 14%
• Copper (Cu) - 8%
• Zinc (Zn) - 1%

The mercury is used to bind the alloy particles together into a strong, durable, and solid filling.

Properties

Dental amalgam is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for filling large cavities in the molars where chewing forces are greatest. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other restorative materials such as composite resin or gold.

Advantages

• Durability: Amalgam fillings are long-lasting and can withstand significant chewing forces.
• Cost-effective: Generally less expensive than other types of fillings.
• Ease of use: Amalgam is easy to manipulate and place in the cavity.

Disadvantages

• Aesthetics: Amalgam is silver-colored and does not match the natural color of teeth.
• Mercury content: Concerns have been raised about the potential health effects of mercury exposure, although studies have shown that the levels of mercury in dental amalgam are not harmful to patients.
• Potential for expansion: Amalgam can expand over time, which may lead to tooth fracture.

Health and Safety

The use of mercury in dental amalgam has been a topic of debate. The World Health Organization and other health agencies have stated that dental amalgam is safe for use in dental restorations. However, some countries have restricted its use, especially in children and pregnant women, due to concerns about mercury exposure.

Environmental Impact

Mercury from dental amalgam can enter the environment through dental office waste. Many countries have regulations in place to minimize mercury release, such as the use of amalgam separators in dental offices.

Alternatives

Alternatives to dental amalgam include:

• Composite resin
• Glass ionomer cement
• Ceramic
• Gold

Also see

• Dental restoration
• Tooth decay
• Composite material
• Mercury (element)