Prevalence of mercury hypersensitivity in dental students.

Author: Miller EG, Perry WL, Wagner MJ.

Source: J Prosthet Dent.

Year: 1987

Comment:

While this study links the number of amalgam fillings to allergic reactions, it suggests that this is not significant.  It also reports that of 171 dental students patch tested, 32% were positive for mercury allergy. The percentage of positive tests correlated with the students’ own amalgam scores and with the length of time they had been in dental school.

Abstract / Excerpt:

For approximately 150 years, mercury in amalgam has been used as a dental restorative material. Throughout this time the potential toxicity of this metal to patients (1-5) and dental professionals (4-9) has been studied and debated. In these reports and many others, problems with mercury contamination and toxicity were uncovered. Although the extent of the problems may be controversial, the overall impact has led to increased emphasis on mercury hygiene in dental schools and in private practice (10-11).”

Citation:

Miller, EG, Perry WL, Wagner MJ. Prevalence of mercury hypersensitivity in dental students. J Dent Res. 1987; 58(2):235-7.