The effect of cavity preparation on the metabolism of protein in dentin

Tritiated proline was administered to domestic cats during the development of their permanent dentition. The amount of residual radioactivity was determined autoradiographically at various times after cavity preparation in mature molars and premolars. Two wk after cavity preparation, the amount of radiolabel beneath the axial cavity wall decreased to about 50% of that present in corresponding contralateral cavity-free teeth. The observed decreases are ascribed to an enhancement of the protein metabolism in dentin. At 45 wk, 80-90% of the radiolabel has disappeared. This paper discusses the role of an eventual effect of microleakage on the latter results.