Related Experiment Videos
Crown morphology, enamel distribution, and enamel structure in mouse molars
S P Lyngstadaas1, C B Møinichen, S Risnes
1Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Norway. spl@odont.uio.no
The Anatomical Record
|March 28, 1998
Summary
This study details mouse molar enamel structure using SEM, revealing variations in prism arrangement and aprismatic enamel, crucial for understanding tooth development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Dental Morphology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Understanding normal organ morphology is vital for biomolecular research and genetic studies.
- Mouse molar teeth serve as valuable models for investigating organ development and morphogenesis.
- Detailed morphological information on mouse molars is essential for comparative studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide fundamental morphological data on mouse molar teeth.
- To characterize enamel structure and variations in mouse molars.
- To establish a baseline for future research on tooth development and genetics.
Main Methods:
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine intact and sectioned/ground mouse molars.
- Observations were conducted on molars from mice of various developmental stages.
- SEM enabled detailed analysis of crown morphology and enamel microstructure.
Main Results:
- Enamel-free areas (EFA) were observed on cusp tips at eruption.
- Inner enamel exhibited prism decussation, while outer enamel showed parallel prisms; variations occurred at cusp ridges and groove bases.
- Aprismatic enamel, incremental lines, cracks, and porosity were noted, with incomplete mineralization at eruption.
Conclusions:
- SEM is effective for studying mouse molar crown morphology and enamel structure.
- Regional variations in enamel thickness and structure are present in mouse molars.
- Mouse molar enamel shares similarities with incisors and undergoes posteruptive maturation.