Key Takeaways: Amalgam
Amalgams are use to make dental fillings, to bind to precious metals so they can be isolated later, and to produce mirror coatings. As with elements in other alloys, a small amount of mercury may be released by contact with an amalgam.
What is amalgam used for?
Dental amalgam is a dental filling material used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay.
Is amalgam still used in dentistry?
Amalgam has been used in dentistry since about 150 years and is still being used due to its low cost, ease of application, strength, durability, and bacteriostatic effect.
