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
  1. Cuspal restorations
  2. Pin retained restorations
  3. As a foundation
  4. Post-endodontic access filling and core
  5. Die preparation
  6. Retrograde root canal filling material
  7. Teeth with questionable prognosis (interim restoration)
  8. Economic status
ADVANTAGES:
  1. Ease of use
  2. High compressive strength
  3. Excellent wear resistance
  4. Favorable long-term clinical results
  5. Economic
  6. Can be bonded to tooth structure
  7. Self-sealing ability
DISADVANTAGES:
  1. Lack of esthetics
  2. Less conservative
  3. Non-insulating
  4. Corrosion and galvanism
  5. Lack of reinforcement of weakened tooth structure
  6. Difficulty in restoring proper tooth anatomy