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Galvanic Corrosion and Tarnish in Vivo

Beyond transparency, one of the reasons it is important for the dental laboratory to provide the dentist with patient contact materials contained in a dental restoration is to help troubleshoot challenges with a dental restoration should they arise. One such example of challenges that we can see with dental restorations, particularly those containing metallic materials, are galvanic reactions.

What is a galvanic reaction?

A galvanic reaction occurs when two dissimilar metallic materials are placed in contact. The contact results in the flow of electrical current. The amount of current (or intensity of the reaction) and the duration of the reaction are dependent upon the nature of the materials coming in contact. The greatest effect is seen when the materials are in direct contact, for example, two crowns in opposition to each other.