The Strength of Corroded Amalgam

Abstract

Investigations have been made into the effect of selective total dissolution of the γ₂ phase in dental amalgams on the tensile strength of the amalgams. The mean reduction in strength for four brands with a relatively low mercury content was 16.4%. The mercury content of the amalgams was positively correlated with the percentage reduction in strength. The results indicate that corrosive dissolution of the γ₂ phase in margins of amalgam fillings with a relatively high content of mercury may reduce their durability significantly.