Intraoral corrosion resulting from coupling dental implants and restorative metallic systems

Materials used for the construction of dental restorations and implants include a wide range of metals and alloys, ceramics and carbons, and polymers. When metals and alloys are placed in direct contact in the oral cavity, a galvanic cell can be formed that may compromise the longevity of one or more of the materials in the couple. In vitro electrochemical corrosion analyses have proven to be a valuable tool for providing guidance on the selection of metallic materials. These analyses can provide basic data on electrochemical potentials, current rates, and the evaluation of galvanic corrosion conditions. This article seeks to provide the clinician with information that can be valuable in the selection of metallic materials that may be placed in direct contact with one another in the oral cavity.