Issues of importance in phasing out dental amalgam

Abstract

Dental amalgam contains about 50% of mercury in elemental form. It has been used for over 150 years for dental restoration due to its mechanical properties and the long term familiarity of dentists with its use. Despite these facts, there have been increasing awareness and recognition of implications caused by mercury release to the environment. Therefore in ensuring minimal environmental contamination by mercury released from dental amalgam, phasing down its use is advocated.