Amalgam and safety Flashcards Preview

Year 1 Sem 2 Tooth conservation > Amalgam and safety > Flashcards

Flashcards in Amalgam and safety Deck (5)
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1
Q

Explain the potential health effects of high levels of mercury

A

• Affect kidneys and nervous system, producing signs such as mood swings, memory loss and development of tremors
• Grinding teeth, chewing and toothbrushing all increase the amount of mercury released
• Some of the vapour is breathed out, but some is breathed in, or dissolves in saliva and is swallowed. This may accumulate in certain organs, particularly kidneys
• However, the Hg level is very low, so the amount of Hg absorbed
into the body is very small
• The amount of mercury released from fillings is greatest when fillings are being inserted or removed

2
Q

Outline the recommendations for the clinical use of dental amalgam

A
  • Avoid the placement or removal of dental amalgam restorations during pregnancy (first trimester), when the mother is breastfeeding, and its use in those patients with kidney disease
  • Amalgam is a material suitable for larger restorations of posterior permanent teeth in children, young adults and adults
  • No conclusive, scientific validated evidence currently exists to justify the removal of dental amalgam restorations to relieve certain systemic symptoms, or treat particular medical conditions (other than proven allergy)
  • Only pre-capsulated amalgam is to be used
3
Q

How should the clinical setting look like when placing amalgam?

A
  • Adequate ventilation
  • Carpet should not be used as a floor covering
  • Single use capsules
  • Amalgamator should have a completely enclosed activating arm
  • Mercury should not be touched with hands
  • Wear mask
  • Use rubber dam (especially for removal of old amalgams)
  • Store amalgam scraps under water in a sealed container
  • Use of high speed evacuation
4
Q

Describe the waste management of dental amalgam

A
  • Dental amalgam adds to the level of mercury in the environment when it is not disposed of properly
  • Stock amalgam capsules in a variety of sizes (different spills) to reduce waste
  • After mixing amalgam, place the empty capsules and scrap amalgam in airtight containers that are marked “Amalgam Waste for Recycling” or “Amalgam Capsule Waste for Recycling”
  • Make sure the container lids are well sealed
  • When the container is full, it is recommended that mercury waste be returned to metal or precious metal recyclers for reclamation
5
Q

Explain what influences the success of amalgam restorations

A

Clinician factors
• Advise patient on prevention
• Material handling

Patient factors
• Oral hygiene, diet, fluoride
• Regular check ups

Material
• Amalgam selection: high copper