Biocompatibility Testing

The issue of adverse reactions with restorative bio-materials has become an increasingly sensitive topic within medical and dental circles. More patients are demanding to know what is being used in their treatments and what assurances can be made as to the clinical safety and performance of these bio-materials.

A biocompatibility report (also called a dental materials reactivity test) provides information on any material sensitivities a patient may have. It is created from an immunological blood analysis. The test examines an individual’s antibody reaction to various chemical groups found in dental materials. The analysis considers metals as well as composites, cements, anesthetics, and other dental components, which can often cause immunological reactions. The results are compiled into a report, which lists over 6,300 dental products by trade-name and indicates whether the product is “suitable” or “not suitable” to be placed in the individual’s mouth. This report allows the dentist to select a dental material that is most compatible for each individual, resulting in a higher standard of patient care. It is important to note that no single dental material is “safe” (non-reactive) for all patients.

More detailed information can be found at Clifford Consulting and Research.

See Also: Biological Dentistry