Inhalation of mercury-contaminated particulate matter by dentists: an overlooked occupational risk.

Author: Richardson GM.

Source: Human and Ecological Risk Assessment

Year: 2003

Comment:

This study identifies occupational mercury exposure of dentists as a reason to limit dental amalgam use.

Abstract / Excerpt:

“Dentists are exposed to mercury (Hg) during the removal of amalgam fillings. Recent research on dentists and other occupational groups report neurological impairment at Hg exposure levels below the current occupational TLV® (25 µg/m3) and/or the occupational BEI® (35 µg/ Hg/g creatinine in urine). Surveys of Hg° in the general office air of dental offices fail to measure the high levels of Hg-laden respirable amalgam particulate matter sprayed into the dentist’s breathing zone during the removal of old amalgam fillings. This respirable particulate matter represents the vast majority of daily Hg exposure in practicing dentists. Despite this, no research is available on the pharmacokinetic fate of inhaled particulate amalgam Hg in humans. What indirect data does exist demonstrates that absorption from the lung occurs but that fecal excretion may predominate. As a result, urine analysis for Hg may be ineffective as a means of occupational monitoring. Various countries are moving to limit the use of amalgam as a dental restorative material in order to protect dental patients from Hg exposure. However, dentists’ occupational exposure should also be considered as a justification for reduced amalgam use.”

Citation:

Richardson GM.  Inhalation of mercury-contaminated particulate matter by dentists: an overlooked occupational risk. Human and Ecological Risk Assessment. 2003; 9(6):1519-1531.