Silver amalgam in the age of adhesive dentistry

Education With the advent of composite resin, amalgam is no longer indicated as first treatment option. And so began a successive change in dentistry restorations which disregards the research as the longevity of a restoration. The controversy over mercury contamination emphasized this practice. Thus, this literature review study aims to guide the professional and the public about the risks of using and removal of amalgam. This material today should not be an indication of posterior restorations, but also the exchange of this for aesthetic principles and mercury contamination through the restorations does not justify this exchange. For this mercury contamination occurs mainly during manipulation and removal of the amalgam, making it necessary to observe the actual indication for such replacement, not exposing the patient / professional / risk to the environment only by the "aesthetic" factor.