Indepth distributions of elements in teeth, determined by ion probe analysis

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biomaterials Science
• Dental Research

Background:

• Dental hard tissues (enamel and dentin) are complex biominerals.
• Understanding elemental composition and distribution is crucial for dental health and disease research.
• Advanced analytical techniques are needed for precise elemental analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) for elemental analysis of dental hard tissues.
• To evaluate the sensitivity, resolution, and quantitative capabilities of SIMS for dental applications.
• To investigate the distribution and mobility of elements, particularly fluorine, within dental structures.

Main Methods:

• Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) was employed for elemental analysis.
• Quantitative analysis utilized external standards and a thermodynamic model.
• Intrinsic mass spectra of apatite were studied to determine detection limits.
• Depth profiling and surface mapping were performed on enamel and dentin samples.
• Fluorine mobility was studied using diffusion anneals.

Main Results:

• SIMS demonstrated high sensitivity (ppb-ppm) and excellent topographic (1 micron) and depth (10 nm) resolution.
• Practical detection limits for most elements in apatite were assessed.
• Elemental distributions (F, Cl, P, Li, Na, K, Rb, Mg, Sr, Ba, Al, C, Pb) were mapped in enamel and dentin.
• Fluorine distribution was analyzed in enamel after prophylactic treatments, and its mobility was investigated.

Conclusions:

• SIMS is a powerful technique for high-resolution, sensitive elemental analysis of dental hard tissues.
• The study provides valuable data on elemental composition and distribution relevant to dental health.
• SIMS facilitates the investigation of element mobility and the effects of treatments on dental structures.