What is a key disadvantage of excessive trituration of amalgam?

Excessive trituration of amalgam can indeed lead to a brittle restoration. During the trituration process, the amalgam particles are vigorously mixed and subjected to mechanical forces. If this process goes on for too long or is done excessively, it can result in a change in the morphology of the alloy particles. The mixture can become overworked, leading to an improper amalgamation where the interparticle spaces might be too small, leading to inadequate bonding.

This brittleness in the final restoration is problematic, as it can compromise the integrity and longevity of the filling. Brittle restorations are more likely to fracture under occlusal forces, which diminishes the overall effectiveness of the dental restoration in the long term. Therefore, it's crucial to adhere to recommended trituration times to ensure the optimal physical properties of the amalgam and ultimately the success of the restoration.