History of Mercury in Dentistry

Forrai, Judit and Spielman, Andrew I. (2025) History of Mercury in Dentistry. KALEIDOSCOPE: MŰVELŐDÉS- TUDOMÁNY- ÉS ORVOSTÖRTÉNETI FOLYÓIRAT, 15 (30). pp. 394-399. ISSN 2062-2597

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Abstract

Mercury has been used in dentistry for centuries, notably in amalgam, a mixture of mercury with other metals for tooth restoration. While ancient civilisations like the Chinese and Hindus used mercury-based materials, modern dental amalgam emerged in 19th-century Europe. Figures like Jean d’Arcet and G.V. Black helped refine its composition and usage. Amalgam faced controversy during the “Amalgam Wars” in the U.S., leading to its temporary ban in the middle of the 19th-century. Despite improvements in safety and formulation, concerns over mercury’s toxicity linked to systemic health effects have led to its decline. Today, amalgam is largely replaced by safer materials, with removal guided by SMART protocols.

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