Trace elemental analysis of dental caries in human teeth by external pixe.

ABSTRACT

The elemental profiles of the dental caries in human teeth were analyzed by the external proton induced X-ray emission (External PIXE) studies. A total of ten elements including trace namely P, Ca, V, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Sr and Pb were estimated in the present study. P and Ca were found to be the major elements whereas all other elements were in trace level. It was observed that the concentration of elements Phosphorus and Calcium varied between the range 7.98% and 19.26% and 19.83% and 35.2% respectively in dental caries.