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“The release of mercury from an amalgam surface in natural saliva during cyclic loading, as well as under static conditions, simulating the clinical conditions of chewing and rest, has been studied using a nuclear tracer technique. Cyclic loading strongly promoted degradation of the amalgam surface in the saliva environment. Corrosion products were found to be loosely bound on the amalgam surface and could be removed by brushing similar to toothbrushing. Most of the mercury released from the surface was present in amalgam particles, produced during the cyclic loading procedure. The daily release of ionic mercury was estimated to be approximately 3 micrograms/cm2, according to the model experiment. Extrapolating the present findings to clinical conditions, man’s ionic mercury intake from dental restorations may be at the same level as the total mercury intake from food and drink.”

“Acute as well as chronic exposure to metals might lead to many different symptoms of disease, for which the name metal syndrome is proposed.”

“The highest levels of mercury in breath measured in this study (fig 1a) are comparable with threshold limit values established in some countries, and exceed the probable safe limits for continuous exposure of the general population, as suggested by some workers. We therefore conclude that the levels of elemental mercury in breath derived from silver-tin amalgam fillings represent a significant and undesirable contribution to mans ‘normal’ body burden of mercury. Further development and use of alternatives to amalgam restorations should be encouraged and the potential benefits of antidotes to toxic heavy metals, such as selenium and vitamin E dietary supplements should be clinically evaluated (Frost 1981, Kosta et al 1975, Magos and Webb 1980, Ganther 1980).”

“Amalgam has proved to be among the most versatile and durable of all restorative materials used in the treatment of dental disease. Hospital controls are essential to ensure that it is handled and controlled properly. Each practitioner and staff member should realize the potential hazards associated with mercury, and practice good mercury hygienic measures and control procedures.”

“After careful review of the literature, one can conclude the use of mercury in dental amalgam is safe, but with reservations. The major exposure of mercury to dentists, staff and patients in the dental environment is due to poor mercury hygiene. However, this problem is not widespread and is extremely easy to control.”

“Preliminary data suggest that dental amalgam and dental nickel alloys can adversely affect the quantity of T-lymphocytes. Human T-lymphocytes can recognize specific antigens, execute effector functions, and regulate the type and intensity of virtually all cellular and humoral immune responses. Normal immune function depends on a proper quantity, quality, and ratio of T-lymphocyte helper and suppressor subsets. Further research may determine the frequency and magnitude of T-lymphocyte reduction and alteration by dental materials.”

“This study was conducted in an effort to evaluate the mercury hygiene of the participating offices and offer suggestions for improvement where necessary. In addition, data were collected regarding various characteristics of each office such as the presence of carpeting, the use of premeasured or reusable amalgam capsules, and the use of enclosed amalgamators.”

“ABSTRACT: Mercury levels in blood and in mouth air before and after chewing were measured in 47 persons with and 14 persons without dental amalgam restorations. Questionnaires relating to exogenous sources of mercury exposure were administered to both groups. Differences in the mouth air mercury levels before and after chewing were statistically significant in the group with amalgams, but not in the group without amalgams. Analysis of the data from the questionnaires indicated that little or no exogenous exposure to mercury occurred among the two groups. Blood mercury concentrations were positively correlated with the number and surface area of amalgam restorations and were significantly lower in the group without dental amalgams.”

Not provided.