Mercury from dental amalgams: exposure and effects
There is no doubt that dental mercury should be taken into consideration as a possible etiological factor when considering neurological, immunological and endocrinological diseases of unknown etiology. Protective measures during amalgam removal and prospects for alternative dental materials are discussed.
Particulate inhalation during the removal of amalgam restorations
The use of a rubber dam, together with water spray and high-velocity evacuation, was responsible for a further significant reduction of exposure to particles when compared with water spray and high-velocity evacuation alone. The dentist, however, was exposed to moderate levels of fully respirable particles for all conditions tested. It is therefore recommended that all dental personnel wear face masks while removing existing amalgam restorations.
Mercury vapour released during the removal of old amalgam restorations
To reduce the exposure of the dentist and the assistant to volatile mercury it is essential to establish high volume aspiration of the patient’s mouth in addition to effective water cooling of the bur.
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