Influence of cementum on the demineralization and remineralization processes of root surface caries in vitro

Acta Odontol Scand. 2002 Aug;60(4):241-7. doi: 10.1080/000163502760148025.

Abstract

The influence of the nature of the root surface on the demineralization and remineralization processes within artificial fluoride-treated caries lesions was investigated using microscopic and X-ray microanalytical methods. Traces of fluoride were detected in the outer parts (about 25 micrometers) of the lesions after the application of fluorides, and a high mineral content was proved for the same region by means of microanalytical calcium estimation. The location of this mineral-rich band in relation to the root surface was deeper into the root depending on the existence and thickness of a cementum layer. However, within the dentine the location and intensity of the mineral content were unaffected by the cementum. Investigation of artificial caries lesions without fluoride treatment showed the following: The degree of mineralization was kept at a higher level near the root surface in the presence of cementum. Consequently, a cementum layer gives some initial caries resistance of the root surface.

MeSH terms

  • Amines / therapeutic use
  • Bicuspid
  • Calcium / analysis
  • Cariostatic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Dental Cementum / physiology*
  • Dentin / pathology
  • Electron Probe Microanalysis
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Polarization
  • Root Caries / pathology
  • Root Caries / prevention & control*
  • Tin Fluorides / therapeutic use
  • Tooth Demineralization / prevention & control*
  • Tooth Remineralization*
  • Toothpastes / chemistry

Substances

  • Amines
  • Cariostatic Agents
  • Tin Fluorides
  • Toothpastes
  • amine fluoride gel
  • Calcium