An universal and accurate replica technique for scanning electron microscope study in clinical dentistry.

One of the main concerns of dental research is the observation of the oral tissues and the materials applied to the dentition. The changes in composition and structure of the outer surfaces and the materials deposited on these surfaces are of special interest. In the literature, a variety of replica techniques for these purposes is described (Grundy in 1971 [12]; Saxton in 1973 [25]). The use of these techniques is limited because of artifacts in the samples, and a restricted resolution power resulting from useful magnifications in the order of 800x. An accurate and universal replica technique for the examination of specimens to be viewed under the SEM has been developed. The first impression is made by a light body silicone elastomer (President Coltene). The positive replica is made by electrodeposition of copper in an electro plating bath (Acru plat 5 electronic, Dr. Th. Wieland, D-7530 Pforzheim). The reliability and accuracy of this replica technique was verified by a scanning electron microscopic comparison of the replicas and the actual structures of etched enamel. To illustrate the applicability of the replica technique to structures with much lower hardness, also high resolution images of dental plaque were produced. The copper surface offers a perfect, original and proper electroconductive medium that withstands the bombardment of electrons and the relatively severe conditions in the scanning electron microscope. Reproducibility was accurate as judged by the duplication in position, size, and shape of the fine detail at magnifications of 7500x offering a resolution of 25 nm.