Variations in the composition of developing rat incisor enamel

The developing enamel of rat incisors was dissected into a series of samples extending from the newly-formed partially-mineralised matrix to the mature.enamel. Chemical analysis showed that, on a dry weight basis, the tissue achieved the composition of mature enamel well before the completion of mineral uptake. The enamel at this stage was porous and relatively soft. As more mineral was acquired, its hardness increased. Throughout the developing region, the Ca:P ratio remained fairly constant, but the CO2:P and Mg:P ratios both decreased due, apparently, to dilution by an influx of relatively C02- and Mg-free mineral.