Identification of organic eluates from four polymer-based dental filling materials

Elution from polymer-based dental filling materials may have a potential impact on the biocompatibility of the materials. Since information from the manufacturers about ingredients in the materials often is incomplete, analyses of eluates from the materials are necessary for a better knowledge about possible harmful compounds. The aim of this study was to identify organic eluates from polymerized samples of two composites, one compomer and one resin-reinforced glass ionomer cement. Samples were immersed in ethanol or Ringer's solution. Organic leachables were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Identification was confirmed with reference substances, if available. Among components detected were monomers, co-monomers, initiators, stabilizers, decomposition products and contaminants. Thirty-two substances were identified and 17 were confirmed with reference substances. From elution in Ringer's we identified 13 eluates from Tetric Ceram, 10 from Z250, 21 from Dyract and six from Fuji II LC; HEMA, HC and CQ were found in all samples. From elution in ethanol 12 eluates from Tetric Ceram, 18 eluates from Z250, 19 from Dyract and 10 from Fuji II LC were identified. The diversity of eluates from the four materials under study is demonstrated. Owing to variation between the materials, the biocompatibility including the allergenic potential may be different.