London, associate dean for research and basic sciences at the College of Dental Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina (Charleston), testified that any decision about the use of amalgam as a restorative material should be based on sound science and empirical evidence-based research.
“Dental amalgam has a well-documented history of safety and efficacy in dentistry,” said London, quoting AADR’s official policy position on dental amalgam, which was instituted in 1996 and last revised in 2004. “Its advantages include ease of handling, durability and relatively low cost. Dental amalgam has numerous indications for use, especially for restorations in stress-bearing areas. Its main disadvantages are poor esthetics and the necessity for sound tooth structures to be removed in order for retention to be obtained. Its use in restorative procedures is still indicated.”
In conclusion, London stated, “Dental amalgam is the most thoroughly researched and tested restorative material among all those in use today. To date, no scientific peer reviewed study has proved a link between amalgam restorations and any medical disorder. As dental researchers and dental educators, we will continue to investigate dental amalgam and other restorative materials.”
The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) is a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members in the United States. Its mission is: (1) to advance research and increase knowledge for the improvement of oral health; (2) to support and represent the oral health research community; and (3) to facilitate the communication and application of research findings.
SOURCE: American Association for Dental Research and U.S. Newswire