Author: Health Canada
Source: Minister of Supply and Services Canada.
Year: 1996
Comment:
This landmark document explores various aspects of dental amalgam. While it suggests dental amalgam is overall a safe material, it also provides suggestions for reconsidering dental amalgam use in pregnant women, individuals with kidney problems, and those who are hypersensitive. It also encourages consideration of proper handling of dental amalgam waste, informed consent for patients, placement of amalgam with other medical devices such as braces, and occupational hazards.
Abstract / Excerpt:
“I. Background
1. Concerns over amalgam safety
Dental amalgam has been used in North America for more than 150 years, yet there have been recurrent concerns over its safety. In 1845, the American Society of Dental Surgeons adopted a resolution requiring its members not to use amalgam because mercury, the major component, was known to be extremely toxic. However, membership in the Society declined and it disappeared in 1856.”
Citation:
Health Canada. The Safety of Dental Amalgam. Ottawa, Ontario: Minister of Health; 1996.