THE PHYSICAL-PROPERTIES OF A GALLIUM ALLOY RESTORATIVE MATERIAL

Objectives. This study was conducted to compare the physical propertie s of a gallium alloy restorative material and a widely used mercury-co ntaining dental amalgam. Methods. Although the specimens were not prep ared according to ISO specifications, specimens of both materials were subjected to ISO standard (ISO 1559; 1986) tests. The results were an alyzed by ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U test and Student's t-test. Results. Th e gallium alloy showed setting expansion which was greater than that f or the other amalgam and greater than the upper limit set by the ISO s tandard. For other properties, gallium alloy performed as well as, and in the case of creep, was superior to that of the amalgam. Significan ce. The gallium alloy proved difficult to manipulate even when using t he PTFE coated instruments recommended by the manufacturer. It is sugg ested that while the material may prove to be a viable alternative to conventional dental amalgam, a considerable improvement in its handlin g characteristics would be required before it would gain widespread ac ceptance for clinical use.