Amalgam Capsules

Description

Amalgam capsules hold factory-measured alloy powder and mercury in a single-use capsule, separated from each other by a thin membrane. Fitted into an amalgamator and run, the membrane ruptures and the two components are mixed mechanically to give amalgam at a workable plastic consistency. The main benefit of the pre-dosed form is that it removes the need to handle bulk mercury and eliminates weighing error; because every mix has the same ratio, the mechanical behaviour of the restoration is reproducible as well. The material is used mainly for Class I and Class II cavities in posterior teeth, where occlusal load is highest. It should be carried into the cavity in small increments with an amalgam carrier and each increment condensed separately, since inadequate condensation leaves internal voids and leads to marginal fracture. Trituration time and speed depend on the amalgamator setting; going outside the time stated by the manufacturer gives a mix that is either too dry or too wet. Spent capsules and amalgam scrap must not go into general waste but into an amalgam separator or a dedicated waste container.

Specifications