Core–shell quantum dots tailor the fluorescence of dental resin composites

ObjectivesWe characterized the optical properties, such as absorbance and fluorescence, of dental resins containing quantum dots (QD). We also determined the doping level needed to obtain a broad and nearly flat emission spectrum that provides the perception of white color.MethodsThe samples studied were resin composites from Charisma (Heraeus Kulzer) prepared with CdSe/ZnS core–shell QD (0.05–0.77 mass%).ResultsThe results showed that the fluorescence of dental resin composites can be tailored by using CdSe/ZnS core–shell quantum dots.ConclusionQD core incorporation into dental resins allows the fabrication of restorative materials with fluorescence properties that closely match those of natural human teeth.