Estimation of trace elements in sound and carious enamel of primary and permanent teeth by atomic absorption spectrophotometry: An in vitro study

Abstract

The results of our study showed the presence of 18 trace elements (F, Sr, K, Al, Si, Ni, B, Fe, Cu, Mn, Co, Cr, Zn, Mg, Se, Pb, Mo, and V) in the enamel of sound and carious primary and permanent teeth. The mean, standard deviation, and range (at 95% confidence level) were calculated for each element. The concentrations of F, Sr, and K were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of permanent teeth than in sound enamel of primary teeth. The concentrations of F, Sr, K, Al, and Fe were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of permanent teeth than in carious enamel of permanent teeth. The concentrations of F, K, and Si were significantly ( P <0.05) higher in sound enamel of primary teeth than in carious enamel of primary teeth.