OVERVIEW

Mercury in Dentistry: The Facts is organized by The American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA).

Accreditation:
CE Credits: 2

Course Description:
In the dental workplace mercury is encountered in amalgam restorative material. Although mercury is a naturally occurring substance, it is a toxic substance and can cause harmful effects at unsafe levels. The proper handling of mercury in the dental office is therefore an important occupational safety issue for the dental team. There has been considerable debate over the use of mercury as a component in dental amalgam restorations. Numerous governmental and private studies continue to show amalgam, when properly handled, to be safe to both the patient and dental team. Most of this debate centers on concerns of safety in the use of the material as it pertains to the patient. This course addresses not only patient and environmental safety, but also the occupational safety issues for the dental team.

Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the dental professional should be able to:
• Explain the current position of dental organizations and governmental agencies on dental amalgam.
• List several sources of mercury contamination.
• Identify some of the factors that affect the concentration of mercury vapor in the air.
• Distinguish between mercurial poisoning and mercurial hypersensitivity.
• Name several symptoms of mercury toxicity.
• Summarize the recommendations for proper mercury hygiene.
• Describe the function of amalgam separators.
• Clarify the facts of dental amalgam use.
• Discuss the pros and cons of dental amalgam restorations with co-workers and patients.

Original Release Date: 2011; Review Date: 2017; Expiration Date: 2020

Additional details will be posted as soon as information is available.