Corrosion of dental copper, nickel, and gold alloys in artificial saliva and saline solutions.

The purpose of this investigation was to study the tarnish and corrosion of three commercial copper alloys, three experimental copper alloys, two nickel alloys, and one high-gold alloy by exposing the specimens for four weeks to artificial saliva and saline solutions. Half of the specimens were brushed, and the solutions were changed regularly. The copper-based and the beryllium-containing nickel alloys exhibited significant surface alterations after exposure to either solution. The potential of elevated release of ions to the oral cavity and to the target organs by some of the investigated alloys should be considered if dental usage of these alloys is to be extended.