A review of current status, challenges, and future of the metallic amalgams

Abstract

Despite many improvements that have been made in dental restoration fillers, amalgam is still used in some countries as a suitable choice for tooth restoration, especially in large cavities, due to its relatively low technical sensitivity, remarkable mechanical properties, clinical durability, and low cost. The current review tries to discuss the status, challenges, capabilities, and future of metallic amalgams while attending to solutions to decrease the side effects of mercury in the case of health and aesthetic issues. All aspects of mercury-containing amalgams are reviewed, along with suggestions for reducing or eliminating mercury in the amalgam while maintaining its properties. Some solutions such as using nanostructured amalgams, adding non-metallic nanoparticles, and developing new mercury-free alloys are suggested. These remedies decrease amalgam toxicity and improve the aesthetic issues of dark metallic amalgams.