elementsoral

Elementsoral is a term used to describe an interdisciplinary approach that examines how elemental composition and elemental processes influence oral health, dental materials, and related clinical outcomes. It integrates elements of chemistry, materials science, biology, and dental science to analyze how ions and minerals in saliva, plaque, enamel, dentin, and restorative materials interact with biological systems.

Origin and usage: The term is a coined neologism in scholarly discussions about the chemistry of the oral environment. It does not refer to a single established theory but to a family of methods and perspectives for studying elemental phenomena in the mouth.

Applications and methods: Researchers in elementsoral use techniques such as spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to quantify elemental profiles. Applications include improving dental materials, assessing fluoride and trace element exposure, and developing diagnostics based on salivary metal content.

Reception and challenges: As a multidisciplinary concept, elementsoral faces challenges in standardization, data interpretation, and cross-disciplinary communication. Proponents argue it clarifies material–biological interactions; critics caution against overgeneralization without consistent methodology.