Dental Fillings Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary metal mixed with silver and tin to create amalgam?

  • Zinc
  • Mercury (correct)
  • Copper
  • Gold

    • For which teeth are amalgam fillings typically offered under the NHS?

  • All teeth equally, depending on patient preference
  • Only temporary teeth in children
  • Back teeth, due to their ability to withstand biting forces (correct)
  • Front teeth, due to their aesthetic appearance

    • Why are white fillings typically offered for front teeth under the NHS system?

  • They are less expensive than amalgam fillings.
  • They provide superior aesthetics compared to amalgam. (correct)
  • They are easier to apply than amalgam fillings.
  • They are stronger than amalgam fillings.

    • What is a key difference in how amalgam and composite fillings interact with the tooth structure?

    <p>Composite bonds chemically to the tooth, while amalgam does not. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a disadvantage of using amalgam fillings?

    <p>They are susceptible to corrosion and can release mercury. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    One reason amalgam fillings may be considered 'destructive' is because:

    <p>Placement requires drilling an undercut, removing healthy tooth structure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor can increase the release of mercury vapors from an amalgam filling?

    <p>Increase in temperature in the mouth (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an advantage of composite fillings over amalgam fillings?

    <p>Reduced tooth removal during placement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What health issues can mercury poisoning cause?

    <p>Tremors, headaches, and kidney problems (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately compares amalgam and composite fillings?

    <p>Amalgam offers higher resistance to biting forces and can last longer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the European Commission recommend phasing down amalgam use in 2016?

    <p>Due to mercury vapour toxicity contributing to broader pollution. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is airborne mercury a significant environmental concern?

    <p>It can spread widely and contaminate land, water, and vegetation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the WHO, how does mercury exposure affect pregnant women?

    <p>It can detrimentally affect the neurological development of the unborn child. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    By what year were all dental offices required to comply with the EPA's rule on dental amalgam waste?

    <p>2020 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key feature of amalgam fillings related to moisture?

    <p>Less sensitive to moisture compared to composite fillings. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor primarily influences the strength of composite fillings?

    <p>Specific placement protocol and correct use. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Amalgam Fillings

    An alloy of mercury, silver, and tin used in dental fillings.

    NHS Amalgam Use

    NHS offers amalgam fillings mainly for back teeth due to strength and durability.

    Amalgam Strength

    Amalgam fillings withstand biting forces and last longer.

    Composite Fillings

    White fillings offered for front teeth, prioritizing aesthetics.

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    Tooth Structure Preservation

    Composite fillings require less tooth removal and bond chemically to the tooth.

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    Amalgam Corrosion

    Amalgam is susceptible to corrosion, which can weaken the filling over time.

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    Mercury Toxicity

    Mercury in amalgam fillings can be toxic, especially when heated.

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    Aesthetic vs. Durability

    Amalgam fillings are not aesthetic, while composite fillings provide better appearance.

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    Mercury Poisoning

    A health issue caused by mercury exposure, leading to tremors, headaches, and kidney problems.

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    Dental Amalgam

    A strong filling material for teeth, composed mainly of mercury and other metals.

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    Longevity of Amalgam

    Amalgam can last 8-10 years due to its robust resistance to biting.

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    Moisture Sensitivity

    Composite fillings require a dry environment during application, unlike amalgam, which is less sensitive to moisture.

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    Environmental Concerns

    The European Commission recommended phasing down amalgam due to its mercury vapour contributing to pollution.

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    Impact on Pregnant Women

    Exposure to airborne mercury is harmful to the neurological development of unborn children.

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    EPA Rule Compliance

    By 2020, all dental offices must comply with EPA regulations on dental amalgam waste management.

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    Study Notes

    Amalgam Fillings

    • Amalgam is an alloy of mercury, silver, and tin, offering increased strength for fillings, particularly in back teeth.
    • Amalgam fillings last longer under biting forces.
    • Aesthetics are not a priority for amalgam fillings in posterior teeth.
    • White fillings, on the other hand, prioritize aesthetics and are offered for anterior teeth.
    • Composites bond chemically to composite materials and not to amalgam.

    Amalgam Disadvantages

    • Amalgam fillings are destructive to tooth structure because they don't bond to the tooth, requiring more drilling and placement in undercuts.
    • Aesthetics are poor.
    • Susceptible to corrosion.
    • Highly toxic mercury material in amalgam.
    • Some patients are sensitive or allergic to mercury.
    • Exposure to increased temperatures in the mouth lead to mercury vapor release, increasing risks of mercury poisoning causing tremors, headaches, and kidney problems.

    Composite Fillings

    • Composite fillings bond well to teeth.
    • Tooth removal is reduced, so more tooth structure is preserved.
    • Aesthetically preferred.
    • Can be just as strong as amalgam when used optimally.

    Amalgam vs. Composite

    • Amalgam is cheaper and quicker in treatment time (one sitting).
    • Amalgam fillings can last 8-10 years and are highly resistant to biting forces.
    • Amalgam is less sensitive to moisture.
    • Composite fillings are more expensive and require longer treatments.
    • Composites require moisture control during treatment.

    Mercury Pollution Concerns

    • 2016 European Commission recommended phasing down amalgam due to toxic mercury vapor.
    • The 2013 Minamata Convention was signed by 140 countries, agreeing to phase down mercury products.
    • In the UK, amalgam use is restricted for under-15s, pregnant, and breastfeeding women.

    Dental Amalgam Waste

    • By 2020, dental offices must be in compliance with EPA rules on amalgam waste.
    • This involves collecting all scrap amalgam for recycling.
    • Non-chlorinated line cleaners (pH 6-8) must be used.
    • Amalgam waste cannot be disposed of in regular or biohazardous waste.
    • Records of amalgam usage must be kept.

    Other Dental Filling Options

    • Composite fillings are an aesthetic alternative to amalgam fillings.
    • Resin composites are white colored and firmly bond to teeth.
    • Glass ionomer cement (GIC) and resin modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) are temporary and semi-permanent fillings.

    Importance of Restorative Cycle

    • Restoration failures or breaks can lead to further tooth loss and repeated treatment cycles.

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    Related Documents

    Amalgam Fillings Information PDF

    Description

    Explore the differences between amalgam and composite fillings in dentistry. This quiz covers the composition, advantages, and disadvantages of both types of fillings. Understand the implications of using amalgam versus composite materials for dental restorations.

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