Conclusion Of Dental Amalgam

2053 Words5 Pages

Hussain J.
Abstract:
The word ‘amalgam’ is derived from a Medieval Latin word ‘amalgama’. It means a combination or mixture of different things. In dentistry, it’s called dental amalgam as it has a combination of metals (mainly Silver, Mercury Tin and Copper). They are commonly known as silver fillings because of their silver-like appearance. (1,2)
It is an excellent tooth filling material which is used to restore decayed teeth. It has been one of the most popular and efficient filling material of choice by the dentists for more than one hundred years around the globe because of its strength, high longevity, ease of use and inexpensive material. (1,2)
Dental amalgam consists of two components: liquid (Mercury) and Powdered alloy (Mixture of Silver tin copper zinc iridium or palladium). Elemental mercury constitutes approx. 50% of the total weight. The chemical reaction allows it to binds all other components together to form a firm, safe and stable mass of filling material and allows it to be easily manipulated into the oral cavity.(1,2)
When the individual is not concerned about the esthetics, dental amalgam can be used in individuals of nearly all ages, stress bearing areas (posterior teeth,) …show more content…

Liquid mercury is mixed with alloy powder to produce a doable mass, by a process called trituration. While, the chemical reaction taken place between the particles of alloy and mercury is known as Amalgamation. Its advantages include: easy to insertion into the oral cavity, high resistance to fracture, prevention from marginal leakage and a relatively long life. The disadvantages of dental amalgam include: conspicuous appearance, high corrosion and galvanism, and brittle nature because metals are a good conductors of heat so there may be a little sensitivity to change in temperature of oral cavity. Despite of its pros and cons, dental amalgam toxicity is still a concern in this modern era.

Open Document