Distribution and uptake of magnesium by developing deciduous bovine incisor enamel

Magnesium concentrations determined in deciduous bovine enamel at different stages of development were similar to those previously published for human and rat enamel ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 per cent. Highest concentrations, i.e. greatest uptake, occurred after secretion, in the transitional and maturing enamel. Uptake had occurred throughout the tissue thickness and was not confined to the surface. Magnesium probably enters enamel in the tissue fluid which replaces the organic matrix. Some magnesium is lost as fluid is replaced by calcium and phosphate but part is retained probably on or near crystal surfaces.