ESTIMATION OF THREE MICROELEMENTS IN PRIMARY TEETH BY INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA-ATOMIC EMISSION SPECTROSCOPY

Abstract

AIM: This study was carried out to estimate the concentrations three microelements in enamel of deciduous normal and carious teeth using atomic emission spectrometry. METHODS: A total of 80 deciduous molar teeth indicated for extraction  from children between the age group of 7-13 yrs. were taken for this study. The specimens were divided into four groups and the samples  were prepared using centrifuge flotation technique. They were analyzed for Manganese, Strontium and Zinc using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. RESULTS: This study shows that  sound enamel contains more of strontium when compared to the carious enamel. Carious enamel contains more of manganese, and zinc when compared to the normal enamel. Elements zinc and strontium occur in high concentrations, whereas elements manganese occur in low concentrations in enamel. The concentrations of elements  manganese, strontium and zinc does not vary in relation to sex of individual. CONCLUSION: The microelements strontium and zinc are present in high concentration. Further  studies are necessary to see their potential in mineralization and anticariogenic process.