What process does trituration refer to in dentistry?

Trituration in dentistry specifically refers to the process of mixing dental alloy with mercury to form dental amalgam. This is a critical step in the procedure for preparing amalgam restorations, which are commonly used for fillings in posterior teeth due to their durability and ability to withstand the forces of chewing. The trituration process ensures that the components are evenly mixed to achieve a consistent material that can be properly shaped and bonded to the tooth structure.

In contrast, mixing dental alloy with resin, preparing a bonding agent for enamel, or creating a dental impression each pertain to different procedures or materials in dentistry and do not involve the specific combination of dental alloy and mercury characteristic of trituration.