Mercury vapor from dental amalgams, an in vitro study.

The aim of this investigation was to examine in vitro the rate of mercury vapor from different types of dental amalgams. Amalgam surfaces of three different states were used, polished, oxidized and corroded. The influence of temperature, tooth brushing and water on the specimens was also examined. The results showed great differences between the polished amalgams stored in air and amalgams corroded in artificial saliva. Single composition types released more mercury than conventional and dispersed ones. Higher temperature raised and water lowered the vapor rates. When the surfaces of the amalgams were brushed with a tooth paste, an instant increase of mercury vapor occurred.