Amalgam
Pronunciation: AM-ul-gum
A dental restorative material composed of an alloy of mercury with other metals, traditionally silver, tin, and copper, used to fill cavities.
Full Definition
Dental amalgam is a restorative material formed by mixing liquid mercury with a powdered alloy of silver, tin, copper, and sometimes zinc. It has been used in dentistry for over 150 years due to its durability, ease of placement, and cost-effectiveness. Editors should note that 'amalgam' is always lowercase in general use and should not be conflated with composite resin, which is a tooth-colored alternative. Regulatory documents may reference it in the context of mercury exposure guidelines. The term appears frequently in clinical, regulatory, and patient-consent documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Do not capitalise unless starting a sentence or part of a proprietary product name. Distinguish clearly from 'composite resin' in restorative dentistry contexts.
In Context
- "The patient's existing amalgam restorations were evaluated for corrosion and marginal integrity." — Clinical case report
- "Amalgam remains regulated under the Minamata Convention due to its mercury content." — Regulatory/policy document