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Initial versus subsequent release of elements from dental casting alloys.
J C Wataha1, P E Lockwood, S K Nelson
1Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, Augusta, Georgia 30912-1260, USA.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|November 17, 1999
Summary
Elemental release from dental alloys varies. Short-term tests may not accurately predict long-term effects or cytotoxicity due to changing release rates over time.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Toxicology
Background:
- Elemental release from dental casting alloys is linked to adverse biological effects.
- Previous studies indicate a decrease in elemental release after an initial high release phase (>1 month).
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify elemental release from various dental casting alloys weekly for 4 weeks.
- To compare elemental release rates over short-term intervals.
- To investigate the relationship between elemental release and cytotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Dental alloy samples were immersed in cell-culture medium, changed weekly.
- Elemental release was quantified using atomic absorption spectrometry.
- Cytotoxicity of the released elements in the medium was assessed.
Main Results:
- Single-phase alloys showed higher initial elemental release in the first week, but not consistently for all elements.
- Multi-phase alloys exhibited steady or increasing elemental release compared to the first week.
- Cytotoxicity correlations were complex, influenced by the type and ratio of released elements.
Conclusions:
- Short-term elemental release tests (<1 week) may be insufficient for predicting longer-term outcomes.
- The changing rates of elemental release necessitate caution when interpreting short-term toxicity data.
- Understanding release kinetics is crucial for assessing the biological impact of dental alloys.