Final answer:
A serviceable temporary dental filling should seal the tooth well, be durable under pressure, and be easily removed when necessary. Concerns about the use of mercury in amalgams have led to an increase in use of materials such as composite resins or glass ionomers which have properties more similar to natural teeth.
Step-by-step explanation:
A serviceable temporary filling should ideally possess certain characteristics, including the ability to properly seal the tooth to prevent contamination, withstand the pressure of chewing, and be easily removed when necessary. These fillings are typically used by dentists in situations where permanent work needs to be delayed, or when they are waiting for a long-term restoration to be created. Considerations in the choice of a material for temporary fillings include biocompatibility, ease of manipulation, cost, and thermal expansion properties which should match those of the natural tooth to prevent discomfort and damage.
The use of dental amalgams, which are alloys that may contain silver, tin, and copper, has been a traditional choice due to their durability and ease of use. However, it is important to note that while these amalgams are affordable and have a long history of use, concerns have been raised about the safety of mercury in fillings because of its potential toxicity.
To address these concerns, many dentists are now opting for alternative materials such as composite resins or glass ionomers. These not only have better aesthetic qualities but also have coefficients of expansion that are closer to those of natural teeth, which helps to minimize the risk of cracks and thermal stress during normal food and fluid intake.