Nanostructural Analysis of Age-Related Changes Affecting Human Dentin

Human dentin performs its function throughout life, even though it is not remodeled like bone. Therefore, dentin must have extreme durability against daily repetitive loading. Elucidating its durability requires a comprehensive understanding of its shape, structure, and anisotropy at various levels of its structure. However, few studies have examined the nanostructure of dentin as a whole and not much is known about its age-related changes. Our aim is to characterize the mineral particle characteristics of human dentin and age-related changes using synchrotron scanning small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering. 30 molar and premolar teeth extracted from 16 to 77-year-old individuals for orthodontic or periodontal reasons were used. Synchrotron-based X-ray scattering was employed to acquire two-dimensional maps of nanostructural features. These maps revealed a negative gradient of particle size toward the pulp chamber. The preferential orientation of particles was position-dependent, with a higher orientation in the area from the pulp horn to the cusp tip and root region. These patterns were maintained in different tooth types. The mineral particle thickness of the inner crown increased significantly with age. This increase could relate to the filling of tubules and, therefore, likely contribute to the deterioration of the mechanical performance of teeth with age.