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What are the main indications for use of amalgam?
The range of indications for amalgam includes class I cavities, when the occlusal carious lesions do not permit “extended fissure sealing,” and similar class II cavities. Amalgam is not usable for class III and IV cavities in visible areas of the anterior teeth for aesthetic reasons.
When should amalgam not be used?
It is highlighting a European Union (EU) directive, which now insists amalgam should not be used in the treatment of deciduous teeth, in children under 15 years old, and in pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless it is deemed strictly necessary by a dentist based on the specific medical needs of the patient.
Is amalgam stronger than teeth?
Amalgam itself is a stronger material than composite but it is not an advantage to use a stronger material than tooth itself. It is common for teeth with amalgam restorations have crack lines due to prep design and the amalgam itself being stronger than the tooth structure.
Are amalgam fillings banned?
The United States is also considering the ban. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) already ordered the ban, considering the possible harm of these fillings. In the document FDA released, amalgam fillings ban in European countries like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden.
Why amalgam is banned?
There has been much discussion about the health and environmental risks of mercury fillings in the United States as well as Europe for some time. This new broader ban was instituted because mercury is considered in those countries to be a dangerous environmental toxin as well as a potential health risk.
Is amalgam banned in UK?
However, the use of dental amalgam has recently been banned in the UK in children under 15. In Sweden, the use of mercury was banned in 2009 – that’s TEN years ago.
What are the different uses of dental amalgam?
Use of Dental Amalgam 1 Use with a Cavity Varnish. For many years, amalgam has been used with a cavity varnish. 2 Selection of the Amalgam Alloy. It is recommended that dentists use only ADA accepted, high-copper alloys. 3 Effect of Moisture on Dental Amalgam. 4 Finishing and Polishing of Dental Amalgam. …
How is amalgam putty used in dental fillings?
Next, under appropriate safety conditions, the dentist mixes the encapsulated powdered alloy with the liquid mercury to form an amalgam putty. This softened amalgam putty is placed and shaped in the prepared cavity, where it rapidly hardens into a solid filling.
What happens if you remove an amalgam filling?
Removing intact amalgam fillings results in unnecessary loss of healthy tooth structure and a temporary increase in exposure due to additional mercury vapor released during the removal process. The durability of any tooth restoration depends on many factors besides dental filling material.
Can a person be allergic to dental amalgam fillings?
Dental amalgam might cause these individuals to develop oral lesions or other sensitivity reactions. If you are allergic or otherwise sensitive to any of the metals in dental amalgam, you should not get amalgam fillings. You can discuss other treatment options with your dentist. Why is mercury used in dental amalgam?