The chemical forms of mercury in aged and fresh dental amalgam surfaces.

Author: George GN, Singh SP, Hoover J, Pickering IJ.

Source: Chem Res Toxicol.

Year: 2009

Comment:

This study notes, "Whatever the cause, human exposure to mercury lost from fillings is still of concern."

Abstract / Excerpt:

“Mercury-containing dental amalgam is known to be a source of human exposure to mercury. We have explored the use of electron yield Hg L(III) X-ray absorption spectroscopy to characterize the chemical nature of dental amalgam surfaces. We find that the method is practical and that it shows extensive mercury depletion in the surface of the aged amalgam with significant differences between old and fresh amalgam surfaces. Whereas the fresh amalgam gives spectra that are typical of metallic mercury, the aged amalgam is predominantly beta-mercuric sulfide. The toxicological implications of these results are discussed.”

Citation:

George GN, Singh SP, Hoover J, Pickering IJ. The chemical forms of mercury in aged and fresh dental amalgam surfaces. Chem Res Toxicol. 2009; 22(11):1761-4.