Abstract
Differential thermal analysis (DTA) has been used to obtain the temperature rises produced during the setting of a range of tooth coloured restorative materials, which included silicates, glass ionomers and composites. These have been compared on the basis of the temperature rise per unit volume of material. Calibration of the areas under the reaction peaks (produced during this isothermal operation) to obtain heats of reaction is discussed and a method described. As for the temperature rises, values are given per unit volume of material. The results are compared with those reported in other studies from which DTA is seen to be a technique suited to the determination of these parameters and which might be considered for use a standard method.