The July 2004 issue of the Journal of the California Dental Association focuses on Amalgam and Dental Wastewater.

Understanding the Impacts of Amalgam and Dental Wastewater
An introduction to the issue.
Richard T. Kao, DDS, PhD

Mercury in Our Environment
The benefits and toxicological consequences of society’s use of mercury.
Thomas Barron

Cost-Effectiveness of Removing Amalgam From Dental Wastewater
Assessing the use of mercury in amalgam and the discharge from dental facilities to surface waters via publicly owned treatment works and air emissions from incinerators.
Jay A. Vandeven and Steve McGinnis

Understanding the Mercury Reduction Issue: The Impact of Mercury on the Environment and Human Health
Examining the toxicology of mercury and the impact of amalgam on health and the environment.
Richard T. Kao, DDS, PhD

Dental Amalgam: Regulating Its Use and Disposal
The impact of environmental laws on dental practices.
Teresa J. Pichay

The Use of CDA Best Management Practices and Amalgam Separators to Improve the Management of Dental Wastewater
Dentistry should heed the growing concerns about mercury from dental offices and put their environmental concerns into action.
Amy Knepshield Condrin, MPH

The Effect of Amalgam Separators on Mercury Loading to Wastewater Treatment Plants
Separators can have a positive effect in reducing the amount of mercury reaching wastewater treatment plants.
Mark E. Stone, DDS

Are There Acceptable Alternatives to Amalgam?
A review of recent studies on the longevity and biocompatibility of dental amalgam alternatives.
J. Rodway Mackert, Jr., DMD, PhD; and Michael J. Wahl, DDS

The Editor/
A Time of Progress
By Jack F. Conley, DDS

Impressions/
National Museum of Dentistry Comes to California

Dr. Bob/
The Wonder Years
By Robert E. Horseman, DDS