The X4 POSEIDON modular micro-CT system offers researchers superior insights into the microstructure of teeth and dental restorations.

Micro-CT provides 3-dimensional imaging on a small scale with very high resolution, with no sample preparation or slicing. The internal structure of tissue and the internal adaptation of materials to surfaces can be studied non-destructively. Micro-CT has become a standard imaging tool in dental research for many applications, including restorative dentistry (Figure 1), endodontics, tissue engineering, and research on mineral density of hard tissues and bone growth.

How is the X4 Poseidon suited to examination of dental restoration fillers?

The X4 POSEIDON modular micro-CT system is equipped with a high resolution sCMOS detector that is ideal for examination of the microstructural integrity of teeth and dental restorations (Figures 2, 3 and 4). The X4 produces high-quality images from the outer to innermost structure of the tooth. In restorative dentistry, a key application is the study of the marginal and internal fit of filling materials, where research shows that the material type significantly influences the adaptability of the restoration, with some materials achieving lower marginal and internal gap values.

Voids, gaps, and bubbles can reduce the mechanical properties of resin-based materials. The original structure of the restorative material may have appropriate mechanical properties, but defects can reduce the performance of the restorations and decrease the durability of the restorative material.

X4 Poseidon scan parameters:

• Detector: 16 MP sCMOS
• Voxel size: 4 μm
• Source: Transmission type
• Source settings: 90 keV, 9 W
• Filter: 1mm Al + 0.1 mm Cu
• Rotation step: 0.2° over 360°

Bruker 3DxSUITE software package: 

Included are the necessary tools for image processing and analysis, allowing the creation
of 3D models through volume and surface rendering algorithms .

The system provides a non-invasive, reproducible, and accurate technique for the qualitative and quantitative assessment of teeth and dental materials. The software enables users to extract data on the mineral density of tooth structure and tooth-restoration interfaces. Data can be shown in 2D or 3D renderings, and slices can be produced in any plane.
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Do you want to see Micro-CT results of your sample? Our specialists are happy to help.

Contact Ben to discuss if the Bruker X4 Poseidon or another micro-CT scanner is a good fit for your research.

Contact Seth to submit a sample for a FREE DEMONSTRATION SCAN.