Proper Management of Amalgam Powder Embedded in the Alveolus

Abstract

The presence of foreign bodies in the mandible is not listed as a risk factor or absolute contraindication for implant rehabilitation. However, possible complications caused by foreign bodies, such as infection and cyst formation, could lead to implant failure. The authors report a case of dental implant placed 4 months after the surgical removal of embedded amalgam in the mandibular alveolus using a trephine bur and bone grafting with mineralized freeze-dried bone allograft. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at each appointment to assess factors such as pain, implant mobility, probing depth, and marginal bone loss around the implant. Within 3 years of implant placement, there were no clinical signs and symptoms and no obvious radiographic marginal bone loss. Dental implant installation appears to be safe following the elimination of foreign materials, so long as anatomic and biological factors and appropriate implant choice, are taken into consideration.