Scanning electron microscopic study of the dentinal tubules in dog canine teeth

Dentin adhesive restorative techniques are regularly used in veterinary dentistry. Knowledge of the microanatomic structure and properties of dentin is essential to ensure success in restorative procedures. The aim of this study was to describe the density and diameter of dentinal tubules in dog canine teeth using recently described standardized scanning electron microscopy techniques. The results showed dentin of dog canine teeth to be more oval-shaped with a higher tubular density and slightly larger tubular diameters compared with human teeth. These features suggest dog canine teeth have less intertubular dentin compared with human teeth, which may theoretically result in lower resin-dentin shear bond strengths.