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[Mercury release from amalgam into saliva. An in-vitro study]
1Klinik für Zahnerhaltung, Präventiv- und Kinderzahnmedizin, Universität Bern.
Schweizer Monatsschrift Fur Zahnmedizin = Revue Mensuelle Suisse D'Odonto-Stomatologie = Rivista Mensile Svizzera Di Odontologia E Stomatologia
|January 1, 1993
Summary
This study measured mercury release from dental amalgam fillings into saliva. No correlation was found between mercury levels and saliva
Area of Science:
- Dental materials science
- Environmental toxicology
- Oral health research
Background:
- Dental amalgam fillings are a common source of mercury exposure.
- Understanding mercury release dynamics is crucial for assessing potential health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify mercury release into unstimulated human saliva.
- To determine if mercury release is associated with salivary flow rate, buffer capacity, or pH.
Main Methods:
- Saliva samples were collected from 18 participants (11 with amalgam, 7 without).
- Mercury levels in saliva were measured.
- Surface area of amalgam fillings was assessed.
- Statistical analysis (multiple regression) was performed to identify correlations.
Main Results:
- Mercury release was significantly higher in individuals with amalgam fillings (11.6 ng/min) compared to those without (2.1 ng/min).
- No significant association was found between mercury release and salivary flow rate, buffer capacity, or pH.
Conclusions:
- Dental amalgam fillings demonstrably release mercury into saliva.
- Salivary characteristics (flow rate, buffer capacity, pH) do not appear to influence the rate of mercury release from amalgam.