Reduction of microleakage around new amalgam restorations.

Microleakage is a problem of all fresh amalgam restorations and is clinically undetectable. Because microleakage may be responsible for pulp irritation, pulp inflammation, necrosis, and recurrent caries, it is essential to prevent and control it. Correct cavity margin preparations, proper amalgam manipulation, proper condensation, and burnishing can minimize microleakage in amalgam restorations. The use of conventional varnish or dentin adhesive on cavity walls before the insertion of the amalgam is the best method to reduce microleakage. Most well-manipulated and well-placed amalgams do not exhibit microleakage after a time.