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Published on: August 4, 2022
Primary enamel permeability: a SEM evaluation in vivo.
A Lucchese1, A Bertacci, S Chersoni
1Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences of Communication and Behaviour, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy. lcclsn@unife.it
European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry
|September 14, 2012
Summary
Primary tooth enamel is significantly permeable, allowing outward fluid flow. This permeability remains consistent throughout life, potentially impacting caries susceptibility and dental bonding procedures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Dental Enamel Microstructure
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- The permeability of primary tooth enamel is not fully understood.
- Investigating fluid flow in enamel is crucial for understanding dental health and treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vivo occurrence of outward fluid flow on the surface of primary tooth enamel.
- To compare enamel permeability between primary teeth and retained adult teeth.
Main Methods:
- Sixty primary and 24 adult canine teeth were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Enamel surfaces were prepared, impressions taken, and replicas examined for droplet presence, indicating fluid flow.
- Fisher's exact test was used for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- Primary enamel exhibited substantial permeability, with droplets observed across the entire surface.
- No significant differences in droplet distribution were found between primary and adult teeth.
- No evidence of post-eruptive enamel maturation affecting fluid distribution was observed.
Conclusions:
- SEM analysis confirms significant enamel permeability in primary teeth, consistent with histological data.
- Enamel permeability does not appear to change with age.
- This permeability may influence caries susceptibility and the effectiveness of dental bonding procedures.
