Final answer:
Ditching of amalgam at the margin indicates a gap between the filling and the tooth, which can lead to decay. This issue requires attention from dental professionals to prevent further problems. Amalgam fillings are made with metals including silver and mercury and are valued for their durability and ease of use.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ditching of amalgam at the margin is an indication of a potential issue with a dental filling; when the amalgam does not properly adhere to the edges of the cavity preparation, it can create a gap or "ditch" that could be judged as cariosus (prone to caries or decay). The product in question, dental amalgam, is a material used for fillings that is composed of a mixture of metals, including silver and mercury. Over time, amalgam fillings may fail due to a variety of reasons such as shrinkage, wear, or recurrent decay leading to gaps at the margins.
Dental professionals take extreme care to ensure that there is no ditching when placing amalgam fillings because it compromises the seal of the filling and possibly the health of the tooth. This gap can harbor bacteria, leading to further decay or failure of the filling, which is why a ditched margin is often indicative of a carious lesion. Replacing the failing amalgam or repairing the margin is necessary to restore the integrity of the tooth and prevent further decay.