Determination of the concentration of Aluminum and Zinc in adult teeth samples in Al-Najaf Governorate, Iraq

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Introduction
Aluminum (Al) and Zinc (Zn) are two important metallic elements commonly found in teeth materials used in restorations and implants [1].The release of these minerals into the oral cavity could have potential effects on oral health and overall wellness.However, limited research has been conducted to specifically evaluate Al and Zn concentration levels in adult teeth samples in Najaf Governorate, Iraq.
The use of teeth materials containing Al and Zn has become increasingly popular in modern dentistry due to their desirable properties such as durability and biocompatibility [2].However, concerns have been raised about the long-term effects of these minerals on oral health, as well as their potential systemic effect through ingestion or absorption.Examining the Al-Najaf Governorate in central Iraq reveals a significant portion of its population grappling with diverse oral health issues.Evaluating the levels of aluminum (Al) and zinc (Zn) concentrations in teeth samples from this area holds utmost importance.It not only aids in gauging potential health hazards linked to dental materials but also offers valuable insights for oral healthcare professionals and policymakers.This study aims to determine the concentration of Al and Zn compound in adult teeth samples taken from patients in Najaf province.Through the use of analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy, the research aims to provide quantitative data on the presence and distribution of Al and Zn in teeth materials and oral tissues [3].Overall, this investigation seeks to fill the knowledge gap regarding Al and Zn concentration levels in adult teeth samples in Najaf Governorate, Iraq, and their potential effects on oral health, thus contributing to the advancement of evidence-based teeth care practices in the region [4].

The relationship of Aluminum and Zinc to teeth
Aluminum and zinc are two elements that can have an impact on teeth, although their effects differ.
1. Aluminum: It is not considered an essential element for teeth health, and excessive exposure to aluminum can have adverse effects [5].High levels of aluminum exposure have been associated with enamel erosion, which can lead to teeth sensitivity and increased risk of cavities.However, it's important to note that aluminum is not typically present in significant amounts in drinking water or commonly consumed foods, so the risk of aluminum-related teeth issues is generally low [6].
2. Zinc: It is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health.It is involved in various enzymatic reactions and contributes to the formation and maintenance of teeth enamel [7].Zinc deficiency can lead to delayed teeth eruption, enamel defects, and impaired immune function, which can increase the risk of oral infections.Adequate zinc intake through a balanced diet or supplements can help support healthy teeth and gums [8].
It's worth mentioning that both aluminum and zinc can be found in oral care products like teeth paste.

Materials and methods
Teeth samples were gathered from individuals aged 17 to 70 years at the Specialty Teeth Center in Najaf, Iraq.Additional teeth samples were acquired from donors at the same center and carefully organized for subsequent analysis.These samples were collected under hygienic conditions and appropriately labeled.A total of thirty teeth samples were collected from both healthy males and females.These samples were then placed in special tubes containing formalin compound to preserve their biological characteristics.
After that, the teeth samples underwent a process where they were washed with distilled water and dried before being ground into powder using specialized grinders or ceramic mortar.Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was then used to determine the concentration of Zinc and Aluminum in the teeth samples.

Statistical analysis
All calculations were performed using statistical software (SPSS for Windows version 20, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), and the results were reported as means and standard deviations, along with the corresponding minimum and maximum values [9].To assess the statistical significance of the data, mean error, Levine test, and P values were computed.A P value less than 0.05 indicates statistical significance, while a P value greater than 0.05 implies no statistical significance.The outcomes of these statistical analyses

Results and Discussion
Thirty teeth samples were collected from healthy men and women with an average age of (17-70) years, then the concentrations of aluminum and zinc were measured in the dental samples using atomic absorption spectrometry, and the obtained results are shown in the Table(1).In conclusion, the data show a little negative relationship between age and both Al and Zn, but this connection is not statistically significant.Furthermore, Al and Zn have a slight positive correlation that is not statistically significant.According to the Table (3) provided, the correlation coefficient between smoking and Al is -0.191 (in both directions), indicating a slight negative relationship between the two variables.This relationship has a p-value of 0.237 (twotailed), which exceeds the conventional significance threshold of 0.05, making it statistically insignificant.Regarding smoking and zinc, the correlation coefficient is 0.080, implying a very weak positive relationship between the two variables.The associated pvalue is 0.623 (two-tailed), indicating that this association is not statistically significant.On the other hand, the correlation coefficient between Al and Zn is 0.288, demonstrating an average positive relationship between the two variables.This correlation has a p-value of 0.072 (twotailed), making it marginally significant but not statistically significant at the conventional level.
To summarize, based on the provided data, there is no significant relationship between smoking and either Al or Zn.However, there appears to be a moderate positive correlation between Al and Zn, which is marginally significant but not statistically significant at the usual significance level.To summarize, there is no substantial association between smoking and Al or Zn based on the facts supplied.However, Al and Zn appear to have a moderately favorable association.

Conclusions
In the conclusive analysis of this study, our primary objective was to ascertain the levels of aluminum and zinc concentrations in samples of adult dentition.These samples underwent preparation and were subjected to analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy.
The study's outcomes revealed the presence of both aluminum and zinc within the teeth samples, indicating their presence within the oral cavity.Importantly, the concentrations of aluminum and zinc exhibited variations among the samples, pointing towards individual disparities in exposure or physiological factors.
Notably, the findings related to aluminum emphasize the significance of monitoring its levels in teeth samples due to its association with enamel erosion and potential risks to dental health when exposed excessively.There is a need for further investigations to comprehensively understand the sources and impacts of aluminum exposure in the oral environment.
Conversely, zinc, being an essential trace element, was also detected in the teeth samples.
Maintaining adequate zinc levels is crucial for oral health, as zinc deficiency has been linked to enamel defects and compromised immune function.Monitoring zinc levels in teeth samples can contribute to a better grasp of its importance in oral health and potential therapeutic applications.
Moreover, we observed variations in mineral concentrations among individuals, highlighting the possibility of differences in oral health, dietary habits, or environmental exposures.
Analyzing the concentrations of aluminum and zinc in adult teeth samples enhances our understanding of the long-term effects of dental materials on oral health.The findings from this study can serve as a solid foundation for future research endeavors, exploring potential health risks or benefits associated with the presence of these metals in the oral environment.

Recommendation
1-Taking more teeth samples for each governorate of Iraq.
2. Other studies of teeth samples using other techniques.
3. Use teeth replacement bone to determine the concentration of Radon and heavy metals.
4. The sample size should be increased to improve the accuracy of the study.
5.Performed the determination of aluminum and zinc concentrations in adult dental samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

male
(ICP-MS).ICP-MS is the most sensitive and accurate method to measure the concentration of metals in biological samples.It is also the most widely used method for measuring aluminum and zinc concentration in teeth.
6-Collect dental samples from healthy adult teeth, clean them to remove any surface debris, then use a dental drill to remove the enamel.
Grind the ivory into a powder using a mortar and pestle.

Figure( 1 ):
Figure(1): Aluminum and Zinc concentrations were compared based on the gender of the teeth samples.

Figure ( 3 ):
Figure (3): Comparison between the concentration of Aluminum and Zinc and samples of female teeth.

Figure ( 4 ):
Figure (4): Comparison between the concentration of Aluminum and Zinc and samples of male teeth.

Table ( 2
): presents the correlation coefficients between the age of subjects and the concentrations of Aluminium and Zinc in 30 teeth samples obtained from healthy individuals.

Table ( 4
): Represent the correlation coefficient between gender and aluminum and zinc amounts in 30 healthy people's teeth using the statistical application SPSS..