Determination of traces of heavy metals (Mn, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) in microsamples of teeth material by ETV-ICP-MS.

Heavy metal levels in tooth compartments would appear to be a suitable indicator of long-term exposure. A method has been developed to assess the heavy metal levels (Mn, Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) in tooth compartments like dentin and enamel. For the simultaneous determination of these elements in small dentin sample amounts (in some cases less than 1 mg) inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with electrothermal vaporization was the method of choice. Sample preparation, method development and first results of the application of the method for the analysis of tooth compartments have been described. Variation in the elemental concentrations depending on the kind of tooth and the sampling position have been observed. The method is useful for epidemiological studies of the heavy metal exposure of children.