Compositional and microhardness findings in tooth affected by X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets

Area of Science:

• Dental research
• Biomaterials science
• Skeletal biology

Background:

• X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets (XLHR) is a genetic disorder affecting phosphate metabolism.
• XLHR can lead to significant dental abnormalities, impacting tooth structure and integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the compositional and microhardness characteristics of teeth affected by XLHR.
• To identify specific structural alterations in XLHR-affected dental tissues.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of one XLHR-affected and one non-affected tooth.
• Utilized Micro-Raman spectroscopy, Knoop microhardness testing, and SEM-EDS analysis.
• Examined enamel and dentin at a microscopic level.

Main Results:

• Raman spectroscopy revealed increased inorganic content and altered mineral ratios in XLHR teeth.
• Microhardness was significantly reduced in affected teeth, especially in mantle and interglobular dentin.
• SEM-EDS confirmed the absence of calcium and phosphorus in interglobular spaces.

Conclusions:

• Deciduous teeth affected by XLHR exhibit notable compositional and structural deficiencies.
• Raman spectroscopy indicated an absence of hydroxyapatite in the interglobular dentin of XLHR-affected teeth.
• Findings highlight the critical impact of XLHR on tooth mineralization and structural integrity.