Atlas · Plate XVI · Supportive Treatment Services · 01
Restorative materials
Amalgam combines about 50% mercury with a silver, tin and copper alloy and can be polished after 24 hours. Composite is a resin matrix, filler and silane coupling agent that shrinks as it cures in about 2 mm layers. Glass ionomer bonds chemically and releases fluoride. Zinc oxide-eugenol soothes the pulp but blocks composite curing.
High-yield facts · 9
- Dental amalgam is about 50% mercury combined with a silver, tin and copper alloy; high-copper alloys resist corrosion and creep.T2
- Amalgam can be polished 24 hours or more after placement.T2
- Composite resin = resin matrix (e.g., Bis-GMA), inorganic filler, and a silane coupling agent; it shrinks as it polymerizes.T2
- Composites are light cured in increments of about 2 mm.T2
- Glass ionomer bonds chemically to tooth structure, releases fluoride and recharges from topical fluoride; resin-modified GI adds light curing.T2
- Zinc oxide-eugenol is sedative to the pulp; eugenol inhibits composite polymerization.T2
- Zinc phosphate is mixed on a cool glass slab in small increments because the reaction gives off heat.T2
- Polycarboxylate cement bonds chemically to tooth structure.T2
- Polish amalgam with fine abrasives; polish composite with aluminum oxide paste or composite-specific systems, never coarse prophy paste.T2
Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.