Atomic and Nuclear Surface Analysis Methods: a Novel Perspective for the Characterization of Dental Composites

At first sight, dental composites and atomic/nuclear surface analysis methods seem to belong to remote, hardly overlapping fields. However, at a closer look certain similar patterns may be evidenced in their evolution. They both were born about half a century ago, but nonetheless they both are driven by unexhausted innovation and continue to develop at high rates. It is therefore not surprising that the applications of these physical analysis techniques in the field of dental composite research during the last decade yielded valuable results. However, the behaviour of dental composites in the oral environment is not fully understood. Recently, atomic and nuclear surface analysis methods demonstrated great research potential in the study of the interactions beteen dental composites and dental hard tissues, as well as for the continued development of these restorative materials. This book approaches this subject and discusses in great length the methods, their physical basis and specific applications which are expected to add a significant page in the future of dental composites.