What is the best practice for managing extracted teeth containing amalgam restorations?

The best practice for managing extracted teeth containing amalgam restorations is to recycle them as hazardous waste. Amalgam is known to contain mercury, which is classified as a hazardous material. Proper management is essential to protect public health and the environment.

By recycling amalgam waste, dental practices can minimize the release of mercury into the environment. Many dental offices are encouraged to utilize a waste management program that includes the recycling of amalgam, preventing it from ending up in landfills where it could leach into the water supply. Thus, handling extracted teeth with amalgam restorations as hazardous waste ensures compliance with environmental regulations and promotes responsible waste management practices in the dental field.