Amalgam
DEFINITION“Amalgam is a special type of alloy in which mercury is one of the component”
INDICATIONS: As a permanent restorative material in class I, class II, class V, class VI caries
- Cuspal restorations
- Pin retained restorations
- As a foundation
- Post-endodontic access filling and core
- Die preparation
- Retrograde root canal filling material
- Teeth with questionable prognosis (interim restoration)
- Economic status
ADVANTAGES:
- Ease of use
- High compressive strength
- Excellent wear resistance
- Favorable long-term clinical results
- Economic
- Can be bonded to tooth structure
- Self-sealing ability
DISADVANTAGES:
- Lack of esthetics
- Less conservative
- Non-insulating
- Corrosion and galvanism
- Lack of reinforcement of weakened tooth structure
- Difficulty in restoring proper tooth anatomy