What are amalgam capsules?
What are amalgam capsules?
A round-ended hollow plastic cylinder containing amalgam alloy, mercury, and a mixing pestle. It is mechanically activated to bring the mercury into contact with the alloy and then vibrated in an amalgamator. The capsules are visually coded to designate different quantities (spills) of alloy and mercury.
What is dental amalgam used for?
Sometimes referred to as “silver filling,” dental amalgam is a silver-colored material used to fill (restore) teeth that have cavities. Dental amalgam is made of two nearly equal parts: Liquid mercury. A powder containing silver, tin, copper, zinc and other metals.
Which amalgam is used for dental filling?
Dental amalgam is a dental filling material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. Dental amalgam is a mixture of metals, consisting of liquid (elemental) mercury and a powdered alloy composed of silver, tin, and copper. Approximately half (50%) of dental amalgam is elemental mercury by weight.
What is amalgam carrier?
Amalgam carriers are instruments used to fill dental cavities with amalgam. These act like syringes, carrying in their tubular tip the amalgam that is inserted and pressed in the dental cavity by pressing on a lever, which activates the piston inside the tube or the back end of the amalgam carrier.
What is the working time of amalgam?
The setting time of amalgam depends on the composition of the alloy, the shape and size of the particle and the mixing time. 90 % of the final hardness will be reached after 10 – 12 hours.
Is dental amalgam safe?
Study after study shows amalgam is safe and effective for filling cavities. The American Dental Association, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organization all agree that based on extensive scientific evidence, dental amalgam is a safe and effective cavity-filling material.
Why was amalgam discontinued?
Amalgam restorations are being replaced because of alleged adverse health effects and inferior aesthetic appearance. All alternative restorative materials and procedures, however, have certain limitations.
Is dental amalgam still used today?
Currently, there are millions of amalgam dental fillings in use and they continue to be placed in dental schools, clinics and hospitals all over the world. They are considered safe and stable, yet their use continues to be debated, says dentist Nathan Janowicz, DMD.
How do you insert amalgam?
Load the amalgam carrier with amalgam from the well; place the amalgam into the occlusal segment of the prepared cavity. Begin condensation using a small condenser to condense a portion of the amalgam into the proximal box area. Place pressure and condense into all line angles, as well as against the matrix band.