Cariology and Restorative Dentistry
One of the main research topics of our department is the investigation of the fluorescence properties of natural tooth substances (enamel and dentin) as well as tooth-coloured restorative materials (ceramics and composites).
At the beginning of the last century, the natural fluorescence of hard tooth substances was described for the first time. We are one of the few university institutions in the world to study these fluorescent properties.
Contact
frontend.sr-only_#{element.icon}: Prof. Dr. med. dent Christian Meller Associate Professor, in charge of Cariology and Restorative Dentistry
E-mail address: Christian.Meller@med.uni-tuebingen.de
High-throughput measurements with a high-precision digital-optical method developed by us
In order to enable a detailed recording of fluorescence, high-throughput measurements are performed with a high-precision digital-optical method developed by us, which uses a monochromator-based plate reader. Among other things, we are investigating the extent to which the human eye can perceive fluorescence differences between the restoration and the tooth. On the one hand, we are concerned with the extent to which the fluorescence intensity of a restorative material can exceed the autofluorescence of the natural tooth substance without being perceived as unnatural or unaesthetic and, on the other hand, how much it must exceed this to be useful as a diagnostic aid.
Fluorescence studies in commissioned work
If you are interested, we can take on orders in this area for fluorescence testing of dental restorative materials.
Get in contact with us!New strategies for the optimization of restorative materials
New strategies for the optimization of restorative materials
The latter enables, among other things, the development of new strategies for a tooth-friendly, minimally invasive removal of inadequate tooth-coloured restorations. In this way, we support the development and optimization of new restorative materials as well as the establishment of new clinical and forensic diagnostic procedures.
Further links
Certificates and Associations
Focus: Top National Hospital 2025
Stern: Germany's Outstanding Employers in Nursing 24/25
Quality partnership with the PKV
Family as a success factor
Pension provision for the public sector
