Management of idiopathic subgingival amalgam hypertrophy--the common amalgam overhang.
An amalgam overhang is defined as an extension of amalgam restorative material beyond the confines of a cavity preparation. The pseudo pathology term "idiopathic subgingival amalgam hypertrophy" is used in the title for shock effect and as a scare tactic to catch the attention of our readers. From various studies, it is apparent that such overhangs are alarmingly common. The overhang is largely iatrogenic, caused by poor operator skill exacerbated by unusual dental morphology. Creep may also play a role in the gingival overhang of large amalgam restorations. Maybe we, as clinicians, are becoming complacent and lax in our techniques and matrixing while restoring such a routine restoration. This article revisits the pros and cons of different methods of amalgam overhang management with clinical cases for illustration.
Chan
Daniel C N
DC
University of Washington, Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Box 356365, D-322 Health Sciences Bldg, Seattle, WA 98195-6365, USA. dcnchan@u.washington.edu
Chung
Albert K H
AK
D003723:Dental Amalgam; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent; D005881:Gingiva / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D006984:Hypertrophy; D011859:Radiography; D014070:Tooth / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D003723:Dental Amalgam