The release, absorption and possible health effects of mercury from dental amalgam: a review of recent findings.

Recently many articles have appeared on the subject of mercury from dental amalgam and some of these have questioned its safety as a dental material. This article reviews critically the evidence on mercury release from dental amalgam restorations, its absorption, accumulation and excretion by the body, and its possible relationship to ill-effects. Finally, brief recommendations are given for the handling and usage of dental amalgam.