トルコの歯科医師におけるアマルガムとその安全な除去技術に関する認識：横断研究

Mercury toxicity from amalgam restorations is discussed as both a physician-patient issue and an environmental concern. This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to evaluate the awareness of dentists in Turkey regarding safe amalgam removal protocols.

A 42-question online survey addressing sociodemographic characteristics, educational background, and knowledge of amalgam, removal procedures and their alternatives was conducted between May and September 2024, reaching a sample size of 269 participants. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25.0 for Windows, and a P-value 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Participants reported a 97.2% rate of undergraduate amalgam training, including both theoretical and clinical components; however, only 23.6% were currently using amalgam in practice. Additionally, 39.7% stated their knowledge about safe removal was insufficient or uncertain, and just 45.6% expressed concern about mercury's environmental impact.

Governments and professional organisations should actively promote environmentally responsible practices through strategies focused on education, awareness, and sustainability to protect public health and natural resources.