Fundamentals of Dental Materials

dental02.jpg (11342 bytes) Fundamentals of
Dental Materials

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Restorative Materials

1-8. PRECAUTIONS DURING AMALGAM PREPARATION

a. Moisture Contamination.

(1) Four possible adverse effects.

(a) Excessive expansion of the amalgam.

(b) Postoperative pain.

(c) Lowered crushing strength.

(d) Blister formation on the surface of the amalgam.

(2) Avoidance procedures. Moisture can be introduced into amalgam by triturating below the dew point (temperature at which moisture collects on a surface). Moisture can also be introduced by the presence of moisture in the cavity being filled or by accidental contact with saliva. To avoid moisture contamination, all instruments and equipment encountering the amalgam should be dry. The temperature of equipment and materials should be high enough so that no moisture collects. Saliva should be kept out of the cavity preparation during the insertion of the material.

b. Guidance for Amalgam Preparation. Any portion of amalgam that is too dry or has begun to crystallize must be discarded. Its use would result in a weak, nonhomogeneous mass. For large restorations, it may be necessary to prepare two or more mixes. Each mix is prepared as needed.

c. Training of Personnel Required. All dental personnel must be familiar with the potential hazards and the proper handling of mercury.

Primary Content Providers: The U. S. Army, The U.S. Navy
Ancillary Content and Online Version: David L. Heiserman
Publisher: SweetHaven Publishing Services