Dental Amalgam Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary component used in dental amalgam, besides mercury?

  • Gold-copper alloy
  • Palladium-silver alloy
  • Nickel-titanium alloy
  • Silver-tin alloy (correct)
  • What is the purpose of mercury's liquid state at room temperature in dental amalgam?

  • It promotes a faster setting time.
  • It aids in strengthening the material.
  • It creates a smooth surface for the filling.
  • It allows for easy mixing with the alloy powder. (correct)
  • What is the chemical reaction that occurs between mercury and the alloy in dental amalgam called?

  • Amalgamation (correct)
  • Precipitation
  • Sintering
  • Alloying
  • Why is dental amalgam often not used in areas where appearance is critical?

    <p>Amalgam has a silvery-grey color that stands out in the mouth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'conventional' amalgam refer to?

    <p>Amalgam formulations that conform to the pre-1986 ISO standard. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change in the understanding of dental amalgam material properties occurred after 1986?

    <p>The crucial role of the silver/tin intermetallic compound in strength and durability was realized. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the composition of dental amalgam as specified by the post-1986 ISO standard?

    <p>The standard focuses on maximizing the presence of the silver/tin intermetallic compound (Ag3Sn). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'γ (gamma) phase' refer to in the context of dental amalgam?

    <p>The intermetallic compound Ag3Sn formed during amalgamation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these methods for condensing amalgam is considered the most convenient?

    <p>Encapsulated, preproportioned materials (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential drawback associated with using mechanical condensing tools?

    <p>Potential damage to teeth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for using different shapes and sizes of condensers?

    <p>To accommodate the size and shape of the cavity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to triturate the amalgam for an appropriate amount of time?

    <p>To ensure proper setting of the amalgam (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a diaphragm used with uncapsulated amalgam products?

    <p>To separate the mercury and alloy until ready for trituration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential issue with using a large round condenser when packing amalgam into a box on the surface of a tooth?

    <p>It may not pack the amalgam well into the box walls. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major concern when using ultrasonic condensers?

    <p>They can cause excessive heat generation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does hand trituration of amalgam compare to mechanical trituration in terms of prevalence?

    <p>Mechanical trituration is more prevalent in both developed and developing countries. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using a steel matrix band during the dental restoration process?

    <p>To support the amalgam during condensation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant risk associated with using a matrix in dental restorations?

    <p>It can lead to a marginal lip of unsupported enamel (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is crucial when restoring the proximal surfaces of a tooth?

    <p>Maintaining the contact relationship with adjacent teeth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should the matrix be adapted to prevent the formation of ledges of amalgam?

    <p>By tightly securing the matrix to prevent movement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to enamel when excessive pressure is applied to it during the restoration process?

    <p>It may fracture (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of material is typically used for creating the matrix?

    <p>Stainless steel tape (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cutting instruments mentioned can lead to the creation of unsupported enamel?

    <p>Round-tipped cutting instruments (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be removed prior to adapting the matrix to the tooth?

    <p>Any unsupported enamel margins (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of copper-enriched, γ2 free materials reduces the risk of ditching?

    <p>Lower creep values (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phase is most likely to form the anode in a corrosive couple according to the proposed mechanism?

    <p>Cu–Sn phase (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does contacting a gold restoration have on the rate of corrosion?

    <p>It accelerates the corrosion process (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can the level of corrosion in restorations be minimized?

    <p>By polishing the surfaces of restorations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the difference between corrosion and tarnishing?

    <p>Corrosion involves a loss of integrity of the alloy, whereas tarnishing does not (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following metals, when combined with copper alloys, was noted for having lower creep values?

    <p>Indium (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does tarnishing involve?

    <p>Formation of a surface coating (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the mechanical properties of a material affected by tarnishing?

    <p>They are typically unchanged (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs if condensation of amalgam is started too late?

    <p>The amalgam will fracture rapidly. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is recommended to check occlusal contacts while carving a restoration?

    <p>Rubbing the surface with cotton wool. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of applying too great a condensation pressure on spherical amalgams?

    <p>The alloy particles may roll over each other. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which amalgam type requires lower condensation pressures for achieving homogeneity?

    <p>Spherical amalgams. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with the matrix during the carving process of an amalgam restoration?

    <p>It should be removed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a mercury-rich layer at the surface of the amalgam indicate?

    <p>Complete condensation has been achieved. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the energy expended by the operator influence the quality of an amalgam restoration?

    <p>More energy generally correlates with higher quality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does using a high condensing force at a rapid frequency have on lathe-cut amalgam alloys?

    <p>It improves bonding of increments. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of inserting a wooden or metal wedge between the teeth during the dental process?

    <p>To maintain adaptation of the matrix and separate the teeth slightly (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step comes immediately after proportioning and dispensing in the manipulation of amalgam?

    <p>Trituration (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is weighing the mercury and alloy components considered the most accurate method of dispensation?

    <p>It measures exact amounts for reliable mixtures (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What issue may arise from the volume dispensers used for alloy components during amalgam preparation?

    <p>Inaccurate proportions due to packing of particles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the effect of manipulating the steps of amalgam preparation on the final product?

    <p>It can influence the strength and integrity of the restoration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of having porosity in the set amalgam material?

    <p>Compromises the strength and durability of the restoration (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which step of amalgam preparation is the material shaped to fit the tooth structure?

    <p>Carving (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What dual benefit does the wedge provide when placed between teeth during dental procedures?

    <p>Maintains the matrix adaptation and slightly separates the teeth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Dental Amalgam

    A mixture of mercury and a powdered silver-tin alloy used for dental restorations.

    Amalgamation Reaction

    The chemical reaction between mercury and the silver-tin alloy that forms solid dental amalgam.

    Conventional Amalgam

    Amalgam that meets the pre-1986 compositional standards for dental use.

    γ (Gamma) Phase

    The silver-tin intermetallic compound Ag3Sn formed during the amalgamation reaction.

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    Properties Control

    The management of characteristics like corrosion resistance and setting time in dental amalgam.

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    Cavity Appearance Limitations

    The silver-grey color of dental amalgam limits its use in visible areas of the mouth.

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    Compositional Limits

    Specified amounts of materials in amalgam to ensure proper performance and safety.

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    Restorative Material

    A material used to restore the function and integrity of missing tooth structure.

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    Chemical Adhesive Resins

    Materials used as adhesive between tooth structure and restoration.

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    Steel Matrix Band

    A band applied to a tooth to provide a surface for condensing amalgam.

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    Gingival Margin

    The edge of the gumline around a tooth.

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    Amalgam Packing

    The process of placing amalgam material into a cavity.

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    Proximal Surface Restoration

    Rebuilding a tooth's side that contacts adjacent teeth.

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    Marginal Lip of Unsupported Enamel

    A ledge that can form if enamel is not properly trimmed.

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    Burnishing

    The process of polishing the matrix outward to achieve contact.

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    Impression Compound

    Material used to hold a matrix in place during restoration.

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    Creep in dental materials

    The gradual deformation of materials under constant stress over time, particularly in dental amalgams.

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    Copper-enriched alloys

    Alloys that have a higher concentration of copper, which can influence their mechanical properties.

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    γ2 phase

    A phase in dental amalgams implicated in causing high creep values and increased porosity.

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    Corrosion

    The gradual destruction of materials through chemical reactions with their environment, particularly in metals.

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    Concentration cell corrosion

    Corrosion that occurs due to differences in ion concentration around a metal surface, often leading to accelerated degradation.

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    Polishing dental restorations

    The process of smoothing the surfaces of dental materials to reduce the risk of corrosion.

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    Amalgam types

    Different formulations of dental amalgams, each with unique properties and behaviors during clinical use.

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    Matrix Function

    Holds fractured portions in place during dental procedures.

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    Wooden Wedge Use

    Inserted between teeth to adapt matrix and separate teeth.

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    Mercury-Alloy Proportioning

    Combining mercury and alloy for dental amalgam composition.

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    Trituration

    Mixing mercury and alloy to create a uniform dental amalgam.

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    Condensation

    Compacting dental amalgam into the cavity preparation.

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    Carving in Amalgam

    Shaping the surface of the amalgam after it is packed.

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    Polishing Process

    Finishing the amalgam restoration for smoothness and aesthetics.

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    Volume Dispensers

    Tools used for measuring fixed amounts of mercury or alloy.

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    Mechanical Mixing

    The use of machines to mix mercury and alloy, more common than hand trituration.

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    Amalgamator

    A machine designed to mix encapsulated dental amalgam materials.

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    Encapsulated Materials

    Pre-proportioned mercury and alloy wrapped in a capsule for ease of mixing.

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    Condensing

    The process of compacting amalgam into a cavity using a hand instrument.

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    Amalgam Condenser

    A flat-ended hand instrument used to pack amalgam into cavities.

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    Ultrasonic Condensers

    Machines that use ultrasonic vibration to condense amalgam, but may cause localized heating.

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    Trituration Time

    The recommended mixing duration for amalgam, typically 5-20 seconds.

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    Trituration Delay

    A delay between trituration and condensation can lead to poor amalgam support.

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    Condensation Pressure

    High condensing force is needed for lathe-cut amalgam alloys to achieve best results.

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    Positive Margin

    An amalgam that stands proud of tooth structure indicates proper condensation.

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    Surface Finish

    Rubbing soft amalgam with cotton wool creates a matt finish before hardening.

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    Articulating Tape

    Thin tape used to mark occlusal contacts in hardened amalgam restorations.

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    Spherical Amalgams

    Require lower condensation pressures and are easier to carve than lathe-cut amalgams.

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    Matrix Removal

    A matrix used during amalgam formation must be removed during carving.

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    Homogeneity

    Achieving a uniform mass of amalgam is crucial for its strength and performance.

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    Study Notes

    Dental Amalgam

    • An amalgam is a mixture of two or more metals, with mercury being one. Dental amalgam is primarily mercury combined with a powdered silver-tin alloy.
    • Mercury is a liquid at room temperature, forming a malleable mixture when combined with the alloy.
    • The amalgamation reaction between mercury and the alloy produces a hard, silvery-grey restorative material.
    • Dental amalgam has been a common filling material for years, but its use has decreased due to perceived safety concerns and the development of alternative materials.

    Amalgam Composition

    • Mercury in amalgam is purified via distillation to eliminate impurities that could negatively impact the setting and properties of the amalgam.
    • The alloy composition is controlled by ISO standard (ISO 1559) and specific limits exist for the major components: silver, tin, and copper.
    • Zinc is often present as a scavenger, reacting with oxygen during alloy production to prevent oxidation. Some alloys are zinc-free.
    • Pre-amalgamated alloys contain up to 3% mercury which may result in faster reaction times when mixed. Most alloys do not contain mercury.

    Amalgam Setting Reaction

    • The reaction between mercury and alloy is complex.
    • Mercury diffuses into the alloy particles, and small particles are fully dissolved into the mercury.
    • The alloy structure breaks down during amalgamation.
    • New phases crystallize, forming the set amalgam, although some unreacted alloy remains.
    • The structure of the set amalgam includes cores of unreacted alloy embedded within a matrix of reaction products.

    Amalgam Properties

    • Amalgam properties, like dimensional changes, are specified and tested following ISO standards.
    • Amalgam undergoes a dimensional change during the setting reaction.
    • Common amalgam shows either a slight final expansion or contraction after setting
    • Strength develops slowly, taking up to 24 hours to reach maximum values.
    • Amalgams that contain copper mature more rapidly, including those with higher copper levels.
    • Amalgam's tensile and transverse strength is lower than its compressive strength.

    Amalgam Handling

    • Cavity design significantly influences amalgam restoration success and is crucial for achieving proper retention.
    • Amalgam is condensed using tools and technique which helps prevent damaging tooth structures.
    • Carving removes the mercury-rich surface layer and rebuilds tooth shape and contours.
    • Polishing improves appearance and corrosion resistance; it's delayed until proper mechanical strength is reached.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on dental amalgam's composition, properties, and usage. This quiz covers essential topics such as the role of mercury, the significance of the γ (gamma) phase, and the changes in dental material standards. Perfect for dental students and professionals!

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