Non-destructive Characterization of Internal Structure of Crowned Teeth by Neutron Imaging

In this study we compare conventional X-ray imaging with neutron radiography and neutron tomography of several crowned teeth and teeth with amalgam fillings. While X-ray images provide detailed information about the root area, they cannot probe anything in the area where metals are present, e.g. underneath the crown or behind the metal filling. Our results demonstrate that neutron radiography and neutron tomographic imaging can reveal the internal structure of treated teeth underneath the crown. These neutron imaging methods can be used to investigate the interaction of various fillings and crown attachment paste with the crown and the tooth itself. The integrity of tooth and fillings underneath the crown, the location of cavities and voids can be visualized in three dimensions and provide means for the improvements of dental filling and crown attachment materials and methods.