Affiliation:
1. Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Subharti Dental College and Hospital, Swami Vivekananda Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India,
Abstract
Ever since its introduction, mercury has been widely used in dental practice because of its durability, ease of handling and placement, low cost, lower technical sensitivity compared to other restorative materials, antibacterial effect, etc. When esthetics are not an issue, it can be used in people of all ages, in stressed areas and with poor oral hygiene. However, concerns have been raised that amalgam causes mercury toxicity. At present, there is much controversy about the safety of dental amalgam and it has been shown to pose an occupational risk to patients, dentists, and their assistants. This review has attempted to summarize the past controversies and the current status of this restorative material in routine dental practice. It also discusses various alternatives to its use in terms of safety and esthetics.
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