How to remove hardened amalgam from an amalgam carrier

If you work in a dental office or university then you most likely have had the occasional situation in which the amalgam has set inside the amalgam carrier. This simple step will help you remove the amalgam easily and quickly, without having to send it back to the manufacturer for a new one.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bunsen Burner or Butane lighter or disposable lighter
• Gloves
• Mask
• Goggles
• Standard sink

1. Put on your personal protective equipment: Mask, Goggles, and Gloves.
2. Take the Amalgam Carrier face the dispensing end of the amalgam carrier with the clogged part facing toward the sink.
3. Light either your Bunsen Burner, Butane lighter, or disposable lighter and place the clogged dispensing end in the blue portion of the flame.
4. Use the plunger, depressing it while keeping the clogged dispensing end in the blue flame. NOTE-make sure to point it away from you as it will literally fly out once the blue flame loosens it!
5. Make sure to point it toward the sink. In a few seconds the amalgam will literally shoot out of the amalgam carrier.
6. Extinguish the flame. Rinse the Amalgam carrier to cool it down.
7. Place the cooled piece of removed amalgam in bio hazard disposal. Please do not place in the trash!
8. Wrap the amalgam carrier in an autoclave pouch and sterilize.

Tips & Warnings

• Always face the amalgam that is being removed away from you.
• Never ingest or touch the amalgam with bare hands.
• Dispose of Amalgam using OSHA guidelines