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Amalgam: Its history and perils.

¹Division of Health Services Research, Department of Health Promotion and Policy, Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, University of Maryland, 21201, USA.

Journal of the California Dental Association

|August 10, 2006

Summary

Dental amalgam, despite historical controversy over mercury, remains an effective tooth-saving restorative material with minimal side effects. This historical debate highlights its long-standing use in dentistry.

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Area of Science:

Dental Materials Science
History of Dentistry

Background:

The use of dental amalgam as a restorative material has a long history.
Early 19th-century dentistry saw significant debate regarding amalgam versus gold fillings.

Observation:

Concerns about mercury's health effects led to a major controversy in the 1840s, known as the "amalgam war."
This division threatened the unity of dental professional organizations, impacting the American Society of Dental Surgeons.

Findings:

Despite early opposition and health concerns, amalgam proved to be a durable and effective restorative material.
A "New Departure" movement in the 1880s favored amalgam for its ease of use over gold foil condensation.

Implications:

Dental amalgam has a proven track record of saving teeth with few adverse effects.
Understanding the historical context of amalgam use informs current dental material selection and patient education.

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