Open AccessPerceptions of dental therapy students regarding the teaching and training with dental amalgam, in a dental school in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Author(s) -
Sharmila Bissoon,
Rajeshree Moodley
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
sadj
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2519-0105
pISSN - 1029-4864
DOI - 10.17159/10.17159/2519-0105/2021/v76no5a4
Subject(s) - amalgam (chemistry) , dentistry , medicine , dental ceramics , dental restoration , orthodontics , materials science , ceramic , composite material , cubic zirconia , chemistry , electrode
Dental amalgam has been used as a restorative material in dentistry for the past 150 years. This material has been used to restore posterior teeth throughout the world and is also used in South Africa. Dental amalgam has been the material of choice for patients presenting with large tooth decay areas, including the loss of cuspal areas. The reason for this is that dental amalgam was always considered strong and durable. Compared to alternate dental materials, this material could also withstand the significant forces associated with chewing and biting. Dental amalgam is also considered more cost-effective than alternate dental materials such as conventional glass ionomers, resin-modified glass ionomers, resin composite and ceramic restorations, making it more feasible and material of choice in lower economic countries, including South Africa.