Mercury is a widespread environmental pollutant, and some forms of mercury can pose a threat to ecosystems. As a successful filling material, dental amalgam has obtained good clinical evidence for its efficacy. Although the amount of dental amalgam accounts for a small proportion of the total amount of mercury used, it is also one of the sources of mercury pollution. At present, the dental industry has recognized the need to further reduce the amount of mercury (including silver amalgam) used and safely manage mercury waste. With the increasing emphasis on caries prevention, the continuous research and development of new dental materials and the continuous improvement of material quality, safety, service life and adhesion properties, the goal of gradually reducing the use of dental amalgam is easier to achieve.