Interface analysis of new tooth filling materials

Abstract

Surface analytical methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning force microscopy (SFM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to study the surface properties of amalgam substitutes as tooth filling materials. In particular the corrosion resistance of new gallium restorative materials was determined. To give relevant practical data, the measurements were performed before and after storing the alloys in artificial saliva to simulate physiological oral conditions. Subsequently an analysis of the artificial saliva was carried out with atomic emission spectroscopy with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES). Selective corrosion of different phases and a high gallium release could be determined.