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Microradiography of experimental root surface caries in man
B Nyvad1, J M ten Cate, O Fejerskov
1Department of Oral Anatomy, Dental Pathology and Operative Dentistry, Royal Dental College Aarhus, Denmark.
Caries Research
|January 1, 1989
Summary
This study shows that root surface caries mineral loss increases steadily over time in an experimental model without frequent sugar challenges. This method effectively models root caries progression for future prevention research.
Area of Science:
- Dental Research
- Cariology
- Mineral Metabolism
Background:
- Root surface caries is a significant oral health concern, particularly in aging populations.
- Understanding the demineralization process is crucial for developing effective preventive strategies.
- Previous experimental models often rely on frequent sucrose challenges, which may not fully replicate natural caries development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pattern and rate of mineral loss in experimental root surface caries.
- To evaluate an in situ model for studying root caries progression without supplementary sucrose challenges.
- To establish a baseline for mineral loss over 1, 2, and 3 months.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 18 human root surface specimens embedded in dentures worn by six elderly individuals for 1-3 months.
- Employed quantitative microradiography to assess subsurface demineralization and mineral content changes.
- Controlled for cleaning protocols, allowing natural plaque accumulation on test specimens.
Main Results:
- All specimens developed subsurface caries lesions, with demineralization depth increasing linearly with time (240 µm at 1 month, 630 µm at 3 months).
- Total mineral content loss (Delta MC) also increased linearly over time, from 2,000 vol% µm to 8,400 vol% µm.
- Microradiography preparation caused lesion shrinkage, potentially underestimating mineral loss.
Conclusions:
- The experimental model effectively demonstrates root surface caries progression and mineral loss over time.
- The study highlights the importance of considering interindividual variation in caries susceptibility.
- This model provides a viable approach for etiological and preventive research on root surface caries.