Nimmo A, Werley MS, Martin JS, Tansy MF. Particulate inhalation during the removal of amalgam restorations. The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. 1990 Feb 1;63(2):228-33.

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.

Read the abstract