dental material of amalgam

Question 1

amalgam

Answer 1

Alloy of mercury (Hg) with any other metal

Question 2

Alloy made by mixing mercury with silver-tin alloy (Ag-Sn)

Answer 2

dental amalgam

Question 3

advantage of amalgam

Answer 3

High mechanical properties - compressive strength, rigidity and wear resistance
Packable insertion to provide
Positive proximal contact
Intimate cavity adaptation
Carvable with hand instruments after insertion to provide optimal contour, surface and
occlusion
Self sealing properties overtime
Excellent clinical longevity

Question 4

disadvantage of amalgam

Answer 4

Not tooth colored. Therefore, not an esthetic option
Low tensile strength. Brittle in thin sections under masticatory forces
It does not bond to the tooth structure
Utilizes mercury. Occupational and environmental “good practices” are
necessary

Question 5

why amalgam ?

Answer 5

Insurance claims show that molars restored with amalgam
require endo treatment significantly less frequently than
with CR
▪ Subgingival CR restorations alter the microflora in
favor of a more pathogenic mix, while amalgam
restos do not
▪ Amalgam costs significantly less and lasts longer
▪ Replacement of CR fillings lead to significantly
larger preps due to similarity in color

Question 6

Moisture control is required, moisture contamination
during insertion also results in
voids, greater corrosion and
a weaker, inferior restoration. T/F

Answer 6

True

Question 7

The metallic bonds of mercury to the amalgam mixture can only be broken under high pressure or high heat. T/F

Answer 7

True

Question 8

never air spray amalgam waste. T/F

Answer 8

True