part 4 Flashcards
What should be used when removing old amalgam restorations or finishing a new one?
Water spray and high volume suction
These methods help minimize exposure to harmful particles and vapors.
What protective equipment is recommended to reduce hazards associated with flying particles and inhalation from mercury vapors?
Protective glasses and disposable masks
These items help safeguard against inhalation and eye exposure during procedures.
What should be worn to avoid contamination from mercury?
Protective gloves
Gloves are essential when handling materials containing mercury.
What should be avoided when dealing with mercury in amalgam?
Heating Hg
Heating mercury can increase the release of toxic vapors.
What is the T.L.V (Threshold Limit Value) for mercury vapor exposure?
0.05 mg/m³ of air
This is the safe exposure limit for an average worker over an 8-hour workday, five days a week.
Which route of mercury toxicity is considered the most dangerous?
Lungs
Inhalation of mercury vapors poses the highest risk of toxicity.
What are the three main routes of mercury toxicity?
- Lungs
- Skin contact
- GIT (gastrointestinal tract)
Each route has varying levels of risk and exposure.
What are the two methods of proportioning alloy and mercury in amalgam manipulation?
- By weight
- By volume
Weight is more accurate, while volume is more convenient.
What is the process of trituration in amalgam manipulation?
Mixing the alloy and mercury by agitation
Trituration ensures a uniform consistency of the amalgam.
What are the two methods of trituration?
- Manual (using mortar & pestle)
- Mechanical (using an amalgamator)
Mechanical trituration tends to produce a more uniform mixture.
What are the objectives of the trituration process?
- To coat or wet the particles of alloy with mercury
- To produce a smooth plastic mass of amalgam for condensation
Proper trituration is critical for effective amalgam properties.
What are the effects of overtrituration in amalgam manipulation?
- Contraction of amalgam
- Higher incidence of creep
Overtrituration can negatively affect the integrity of the restoration.
What are the effects of undertrituration?
- Inadequate setting of alloy
- Decreased strength
- Increased incidence of corrosion
Undertrituration compromises the quality of the amalgam restoration.
What is mulling in the context of amalgam manipulation?
Continuation of trituration using a squeeze cloth
Mulling aims to produce a homogeneous mass of amalgam.
What is the purpose of condensation in amalgam manipulation?
- To adopt restoration into the cavity walls more intimately
- To regulate the residual mercury content
Effective condensation ensures the restoration fits well and minimizes mercury exposure.
