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44Ca doped remineralization study on dentin by isotope microscopy
N Hiraishi1, S Kobayashi2, H Yurimoto3
1Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan.
Summary
This study used 44Ca to track calcium uptake during tooth remineralization. Fluoride enhanced extrinsic calcium deposition, altering natural mineral distribution in dental caries.
Area of Science:
- Biomineralization
- Dental Research
- Isotope Tracing
Background:
- Dental caries involves a dynamic balance of mineral loss and gain.
- Distinguishing between tooth-derived (intrinsic) and solution-derived (extrinsic) calcium uptake is crucial for understanding caries progression and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate intrinsic and extrinsic calcium deposition in dental caries using a novel 44Ca-doped remineralization approach.
- To investigate the effect of fluoride on calcium uptake and mineral distribution within carious lesions.
Main Methods:
- A pH-cycling model was employed on bovine root dentin.
- A remineralization solution enriched with stable isotope 44Ca was utilized.
- High mass-resolution secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) was used for isotope imaging of 40Ca and 44Ca distribution.
Main Results:
- Fluoride treatment significantly increased the uptake of extrinsic 44Ca, particularly in superficial carious lesions.
- The control group exhibited intrinsic 40Ca throughout the lesions, while the fluoride group showed limited 40Ca distribution to subsurface areas.
- Total calcium distribution (40Ca + 44Ca) was more homogeneous in the absence of fluoride.
Conclusions:
- Fluoride enhances the deposition of extrinsic calcium, altering the natural mineral composition of carious lesions.
- The findings suggest that fluoride's protective effect may involve preferential remineralization with extrinsic minerals, making the surface more acid-resistant.
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