Scanning electron microscopic evaluation of clinically cemented cast gold restorations

Copper replicas were made of well-fitting, clinically cemented cast gold restorations. The replicas were scanned in the scanning electron microscope to measure the accuracy of fit at the margins. The margin discrepancies observed compared with findings of laboratory studies. Numerous microscopic cracks were found in the cervical enamel of these restored, vital, and asymptomatic teeth.