Problems and benefits associated with restorative materials: side-effects and long-term cost.

The paper reviews data on biological side-effects of dental materials on patients and also on personnel who routinely handle the materials. The incidence of adverse effects is low--in one study indicated to be 1:700 for all types of treatments. For individual types of materials, it will be significantly lower, and for restorative materials, probably in the 1:10,000 to 1:20,000 range. Allergic reactions are the most common type of adverse effect of dental materials. Lichenoid reactions on the oral mucous membrane adjacent to amalgam restorations are the most frequently encountered side-effects for a specific group of restorative materials. Cost analyses were based on reports of longevity of different restorations and the cost of restorations at the time of placement. Amalgam restorative therapy was more cost-effective than composite restorations and gold castings.