[Amalgam and pain-a discussion of the amalgam controversy.]

Amalgam, which has long been used as a restorative material, has recently become the target of more and more criticism. An assessment of amalgam requires consideration of different aspects of toxicology, allergology, electrochemistry, psychology, and dentistry. Up to now, there is no scientific evidence that the physical properties of amalgam can lead to pain. Amalgam fillings with insufficiently formed chewing surfaces can cause myofacial pain, but the same can be said of restorations performed with any other material. Almost all preventive or therapeutic dental treatment can have adverse effects, and an attempt to eliminate all risks could well eliminate established methods in dentistry as well. This paper presents the ramifications of an amalgam ban, which is being called for by various groups, in some detail.