The correct answer is Amalgam because it does not inherently possess antibacterial properties. While amalgam contains metals like mercury, silver, and tin, it primarily acts as a durable restorative material without releasing agents that actively inhibit bacterial growth. In contrast, materials like Glass ionomer cement release fluoride ions, providing antibacterial effects, and Zinc oxide eugenol cement contains eugenol, which has known antimicrobial properties. Composite resins may incorporate antibacterial agents to reduce bacterial colonization. Therefore, amalgam’s clinical advantage lies in strength and longevity rather than antibacterial action.

Reference: Textbook of Operative Dentistry, 7th Edition.