Microradiographic study of demineralization of shark enamel in a human caries model

Scand J Dent Res. 1988 Jun;96(3):209-11. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0722.1988.tb01545.x.

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to compare the resistance of fluoroapatite (shark enamel) and hydroxyapatite (human enamel) against a high caries challenge in a human in vivo model. Two samples of shark enamel and human enamel were each placed in removable appliances in six children and carried for 1 month and a plaque retentive device was placed over each enamel sample. The results showed that the mean total mineral loss (delta Z) was 1680 vol% micron in human enamel and 965 vol% micron in shark enamel. The corresponding mean values for lesion depth were 90 micron and 36 micron, respectively. It is concluded that even shark enamel containing 30,000 ppm F has a limited resistance against caries attacks.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Animals
  • Apatites*
  • Child
  • Dental Caries / diagnostic imaging*
  • Dental Caries Susceptibility
  • Dental Enamel / diagnostic imaging*
  • Durapatite
  • Humans
  • Hydroxyapatites*
  • Microradiography
  • Sharks

Substances

  • Apatites
  • Hydroxyapatites
  • Durapatite
  • fluorapatite