Mercury exposure and the toxicity among dental workers: A systematic review

Abstract

Mercury (Hg), which is the major component of dental amalgam, has the ability to evaporate, enters human system through inhalation and causes serious toxicity among dental workers. Although amalgam containing Hg had been banned completely in several countries, it is still widely used and considered safe in low economical countries due to absence of other cost-effective alternative. In this systematic review, 26 research articles were selected in line with the scope of study through keyword screening. The findings revealed that dental workers associated with filling, restoration or removal of amalgam tasks are in greater risk for many complications, especially reduced neuropsychological function. This is caused by increased Hg vapour level in the ambient air of dental clinics, from the amalgam, and ultimately inhaled by the personnel. This review also outlined factors that determine the severity of Hg toxicity such as gender, servicing period, facilities occupied at clinics and training provided.