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Problems and benefits associated with restorative materials: side-effects and long-term cost
1College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610.
Advances in Dental Research
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Dental materials generally have a low incidence of adverse biological effects, with allergic reactions being the most common. Amalgam restorations are found to be more cost-effective than composite or gold alternatives.
Area of Science:
- Dental Materials Science
- Biocompatibility
- Oral Health
Background:
- Dental materials can cause biological side-effects in patients and dental personnel.
- Adverse effects are infrequent, with an overall incidence of approximately 1:700 treatments.
- Specific restorative materials exhibit even lower incidences, potentially 1:10,000 to 1:20,000.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review biological side-effects of dental materials.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of different restorative materials.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biological side-effects.
- Cost analysis based on restoration longevity and initial placement costs.
Main Results:
- Allergic reactions are the most common adverse effect.
- Lichenoid reactions near amalgam restorations are frequently observed.
- Amalgam therapy is more cost-effective than composite restorations and gold castings.
Conclusions:
- Biological risks associated with dental materials are low.
- Amalgam restorations present a cost-effective treatment option.