Preserved microstructure and mineral distribution in tooth and periodontal tissues in early fossil hominin material from Koobi Fora, Kenya

The aim of this study was to explore further the preservation of tissues and the mineral distribution in 1.6 million-year-old fossil hominin material from Koobi Fora, Kenya attributed to Paranthropus boisei (KNM-ER 1817). Bone, dentine and cementum microstructure were well preserved. Electron microprobe analysis of dentine and bone revealed an F-bearing apatite. Calcite now filled the original soft tissue spaces. The average Ca/P atomic ratio was 1.93, as compared to 1.67 in biological hydroxyapatite, indicating that the Ca-content had increased during fossilization. Analytical sums for mineral content were approximately 90 wt%. Some of the remaining 10 wt% may be preserved organic material. Demineralized dentine fragments showed irregularly distributed tubules encircled with a fibrous-like electron-dense material. A similar material was observed in demineralized dentine. Within this, structures resembling bacteria were seen. In demineralized bone an electron-dense material with a fibrous appearance and a banding pattern that repeated every 64 nm, similar to that of collagen, was noted. SEM of an enamel fragment (KNM-ER 6081) showed signs of demineralization/remineralization. Retzius lines, Hunter-Schreger bands and prism cross-striations spaced 3.7-7.1.microm apart were noted. Prisms were arranged in a pattern 3 configuration and deeper areas containing aprismatic enamel were occasionally observed. We conclude that a great deal of informative microstructure and ultrastructure remains preserved in this fossil material. We also hypothesize that the high mineral content of the tissues may 'protect' parts of the organic matrix from degradation, since our findings indicate that some organic matrix may still be present.

Development of enamel defects in rat mandibular incisor after thyro-parathyroidectomy

Previous studies with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated the presence of small hypoplastic defects in the incisal third of incisors and deep hypoplasia in the apical third of the incisors after thyro-parathyroidectomy in the rat. These studies provided a morphological description of the defects, but uncertainty remained concerning their development throughout amelogenesis. The aim of the present investigation was to study, with SEM operated in the backscattered mode, the development of the hypoplastic defects, from the beginning of the secretion to the end of the maturation zone of the enamel, in the lower incisor of thyroparathyroidectomized rats. The results of the present study showed that the large and small defects developed are separate entities that do not develop into the other. The distribution of large defects might be linked to a reduction of the eruption rate in these rats. The pathogenesis of these defects needs further investigation.

TEM observations on the ameloblast/enamel interface in the rat incisor

The structure of rat incisor enamel is established at the topographically complex interface between secretory ameloblasts and forming enamel. The aim of this study was to gain additional information on this interface by sectioning parallel with the rows and the long axis of Tomes' processes and prisms. Rats were sacrificed and fixed by glutaraldehyde/paraformaldehyde perfusion. After dissection, demineralization and embedding transverse jaw/incisor segments were cut, reembedded, and reoriented. Sections were prepared for and observed in the transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The intraenamel part of Tomes' process was about 18 microns long. The forming prism occupied a longitudinally grooved invagination on its apical aspect. The parts of Tomes' process forming the side walls of the groove were attenuated and showed variation in extent and outline. Prism growth occurred over the whole grooved area. An estimation of Tomes' process secretory area in rat compared with data from humans suggests that there may be a relationship between secretory area and rate of prism formation. Prism crystals were oriented obliquely or parallel to the secretory surface of Tomes' process. At interprism growth sites matrix deposition was irregular and required some redistribution to conform to the pattern of interprism sheets.

SEM study of the development of rat incisor enamel hypoplasia under hypocalcemia induced by thyro-parathyroidectomy

Several clinical studies have reported the presence of enamel hypoplasia in congenital hypoparathyroidism or hypocalcemia. In previous studies we showed that thyroparathyroidectomy (TPTX) induced perturbations of the ameloblast morphology and secretion, of the rod pattern and of the enamel surface at late secretory stage and beginning of maturation, and limited hypoplasia in the erupted enamel of rat incisor. The aim of the present study was to evaluate by SEM, the extent and evolution of the enamel alterations of thyro-parathyroidectomized rats during the maturation stage. Wistar rats were thyro-parathyroidectomized and sacrificed 57 days later. The incisors were dissected out and processed for SEM. The surface of the incisor was observed from the end of secretion/beginning of maturation to its incisal erupted end. Transverse sections were prepared to study the structural defects and the prism pattern at different stages. The results showed that the surface of the TPTX incisors presented large hypoplastic defects at the end of secretion/beginning of maturation and only small defects in the erupted part. Transverse sections showed that, at the transition from secretion to maturation, the enamel defects extended to the mid-thickness of the tissue. At the incisal end the defects were limited to the outer enamel. As it is difficult to understand how the large apical defects could recover to appear as small hypoplasia at the incisal end, these results raise new questions concerning: (1) the effect of a long term calcium deficiency upon the cellular activity of the ameloblasts, and (2) the capacity of the enamel organ to compensate structural abnormalities.

Enamel pearls and cervical enamel projections on 2 maxillary molars with localized periodontal disease: case report and histologic study

Presented here is an unusual case of teeth with aberrant enamel. One small and 3 large enamel pearls were identified in 2 maxillary third molars of a patient. One long enamel projection was connected to one of the large enamel pearls, along with 2 short cervical enamel projections. The ectopic enamel was associated with advanced localized periodontal destruction. After extraction, the molars were investigated radiographically and under the scanning electron microscope. The 3 large pearls contained distinct dentinal cones. The enamel of the pearls and the long cervical projection exhibited most of the structural attributes of crown enamel but were somewhat irregular, with variable shape and course of the prisms. Morphologic considerations suggest that these enamel pearls were aberrations and should not be regarded as attempts at new cusp or new tooth formation.

A comparative infrared spectroscopic study of hydroxide and carbonate absorption bands in spectra of shark enameloid, shark dentin, and a geological apatite

The purpose of the present work was to investigate the infrared (IR) spectrum of shark enameloid, especially with regard to hydroxide and carbonate bands. With thin sections placed directly in the IR beam it was possible to get high concentrations of ions without interfering effects from a dispersion medium (e.g., alkali halides). For comparison, spectra of shark dentin and a geo-apatite were also recorded. In spectra of shark enameloid and geo-apatite medium strong hydroxide absorption bands were found around 3535 cm(-1), and in shark dentin and geo-apatite spectra weak shoulders were observed at about 3570 cm(-1). Hydroxide libration bands at about 740 cm(-1) were found in shark enameloid and geo-apatite spectra; in the latter, also a band at 680 cm(-1). Carbonate bands were found in shark enameloid spectra at 1480 (weak shoulder), 1453, 1423, and 868 cm(-1). In shark dentin spectra there were carbonate bands at 1452, 1417, and 875 cm(-1), and probably also a carbonate band at about 1530 cm(-1) overlapped by an amide II band. Weak carbonate bands were also found in the spectra of the geo-apatite at 1452 cm(-1), and at about 1425 and 880 cm(-1). The relative intensities of the bands at 1453 cm(-1) (contributed from A and B sites) and around 1420 cm(-1) (B sites) changed from shark enameloid to shark dentin, and also from shark enameloid to the geo-apatite. More A sites seem to be occupied by carbonate in shark dentin than in shark enameloid, supposedly owing to fluoride occupation of A sites in shark enameloid. In geo-apatite and shark enameloid there are hydroxide ions hydrogen bonded to fluoride. Both shark enameloid and the geo-apatite are fluoride rich, and geo-apatite seems to have the highest fluoride concentration. There are, however, indications that the hydroxide concentration is also higher in the geo-apatite than in shark enameloid. This can be explained by the much higher carbonate content, and partly also by the higher water content in shark enameloid. There are A sites in geo-apatite and probably also in shark enameloid which are occupied by carbonate, but the proportion of occupied A sites relative to occupied B sites is greater in geo-apatite than in shark enameloid. This difference can be explained by the preference of A sites when the carbonate concentration is very low. On the other hand, for greater amounts of carbonate such as we have in shark enameloid, B sites are preferred.

Growth tracks in dental enamel

The present paper evaluates the enamel growth tracks as tools in the chronological mapping of dental development, with special reference to hominids. Dental enamel consists of tightly packed hydroxyapatite crystals organized by differential orientation into a pattern of prisms and interprisms. The crystal organization is probably under the influence of both cellular and physico-chemical factors. The structure of mature enamel testifies to events that took place during enamel formation. The prisms are the fossilized tracks traced out by ameloblasts. The tangential diameter of ameloblasts and the central distance of prisms increase from the enamel-dentine junction to the enamel surface. Available evidence suggests that prism cross-striations are light microscopic expressions of prism varicosities and/or compositional variations, that these are due to a rhythm in enamel formation, and that this rhythm is diurnal. In human enamel the mean daily rate of enamel production is about 3.5 micron, but increases from inner to outer enamel and decreases from incisal/cuspal to cervical enamel. Conclusive evidence has shown that Retzius lines are incremental lines. Evenly spaced Retzius lines probably represent a 6-11 day rhythm in enamel formation, while other Retzius lines may be due to various types of stress. The geometry of the enamel growth tracks and their chronological significance are valuable tools in chronological mapping of dental development and for understanding temporal and spatial patterns in tooth morphogenesis. The taxonomic significance of prism packing patterns, prism decussation and enamel thickness should be clarified through further systematic descriptive research.

Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis of defects in mature rat incisor enamel after thyroparathyroidectomy

The surface and the structure of the erupted enamel of the continuously growing rat incisor were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyse the effect of thyroparathyroidectomy on enamel formation. Ten male 21-day-old Wistar rats were thyroparathyroidectomized and five sham-operated rats were used as controls. Two months after surgery the rats were perfused with 1% glutaraldehyde and their mandibles dissected. The erupted ends of the incisors were cut off and routinely processed for SEM. An energy-dispersive analysis of X-rays (EDX analysis) was performed for the calcium:iron ratio of the enamel surface defects. Thyroparathyroidectomy induced surface defects and structural abnormalities in the outer layer of the mature erupted enamel. It was established that the surface and structural defects were related. The EDX analysis of the outer enamel showed that the enamel defects were associated with an abnormal elevation of the iron content. The SEM appearance and the EDX analyses indicated that these defects were hypomineralized and rich in iron. The reddish colour of the enamel is due to the high concentrations of iron.

Crown morphology, enamel distribution, and enamel structure in mouse molars

BACKGROUND

Biomolecular research and genetic manipulations have stressed the importance of thorough knowledge of normal organ morphology. Mouse molar teeth are convenient models for studying basic interactions in organ development and morphogenesis. The aim of the present study was to provide basic information on their morphology.

METHODS

Intact and sectioned/ground molars of mice of various ages were observed with SEM.

RESULTS

Enamel-free areas (EFA) were present on cusp tips at time of eruption. The dominating structural configuration in enamel was prism decussation in inner enamel and parallel prisms in outer enamel. Prism decussation tended to be absent at cusp ridges and in the bottom of grooves. In the former location, the distinction between prisms and interprism was often obscured in the middle enamel zone due to decreased difference in orientation of their crystals. A thin layer of enamel, often aprismatic, covered the distal aspect of cusps in maxillary molars and the mesial aspect of cusps in mandibular molars. The enamel abutting on EFA was often aprismatic. Aprismatic enamel exhibited incremental lines with a periodicity of about 1 microm and was often traversed by cracks. The enamel surface was porous in the bottom of grooves. Parts of mouse molar enamel were incompletely mineralized at the time of eruption.

CONCLUSIONS

SEM is a convenient method for combined studies of crown morphology and enamel structure. Based on morphological criteria, a modification of the cusp nomenclature is proposed. Enamel thickness and structure in mouse molars show regional variations. Fundamental similarities exist between mouse molar cusps and mouse incisors. Mouse molar enamel undergoes posteruptive maturation.

A scanning electron-microscopic study of developing human deciduous enamel on the dependence of the outline of surface pits on the angle of observation

On the developing enamel surfaces of fetal human deciduous teeth, many of the surface pits were arcade-shaped with the arcade preferentially pointing in a cervical direction. The configuration of the interprism ridges between the pits contributed to this appearance. Surface cracks allowed verification of an incisal inclination of the subsurface prisms. This apparent paradox was solved when the specimens were tilted so that the pits were viewed in the directions of the prisms, giving the pits a compressed arcade-shape with the arcades pointing incisally. It is recommended that care should be exercised and due attention paid to the angle of observation when determining the orientation of pit arcades. Pit entry direction seems to be a more reliable feature for inferring the direction of tangential ameloblast movement.

Effects of accelerated eruption on the enamel of the rat lower incisor

The effect of accelerated eruption of the rat lower incisor on enamel was studied in a series of segments obtained when the incisor was cut repeatedly out of occlusion over a five-week period. The segments were ground, cleaned, acid-etched, observed with SEM, and analyzed with EDX. Pigmentation was lost within 11 days. Pigmented superficial enamel was more acid-resistant than the rest of the enamel, but this quality decreased with decreasing iron content. Hypomineralized enamel first appeared in a restricted area at the mesio-labial angle of the tooth in the 6th-7th segment obtained after 11-14 days. Later, hypomineralization became more generalized. All enamel zones were retained throughout the experiment. The geometry of the prism pattern was affected. The angle between prism rows and the enamel-dentin junction increased from 44 degrees to 48 degrees, while the angle of decussation increased from 60 degrees to 70 degrees. The angle between the enamel surface and prisms in the outer enamel was more difficult to assess, but tended to increase from about 25 degrees to 29 degrees. However, the prisms retained their incisal direction. The connection between enamel and dentin was partly disrupted from about the 9th segment onward. The depth of the mesial concavity of the enamel-dentin junction decreased from about the 10th segment onward. Accelerated eruption affects all stages of enamel formation and is a suitable and predictable model for studying regulatory mechanisms in amelogenesis.

Morphological characteristics of mouse incisor enamel

Maxillary and mandibular incisors of mice aged 5 wk were sectioned and ground along various planes, acidetched and observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The general design of the enamel structure resembled rat incisor enamel with an uniserial lamellar pattern of prisms in the inner enamel and incisally directed parallel prisms in the outer enamel. The centrolabial thickness of the enamel was about 60 microns in the maxillary and about 95 microns in the mandibular incisor. The angle between prism rows and enamel-dentine junction was about 70 degrees in the maxillary and about 45 degrees in the mandibular incisor, while the angle of decussation, which increased from the enamel-dentine junction towards the outer enamel, was 50-95 degrees and 30-80 degrees respectively. The angle between outer enamel prisms and enamel surface was about 12 degrees in the maxillary and 5-15 degrees in the mandibular incisor. The outer 1/2-1/3 of the outer enamel contained iron and was more acid-resistant than the rest of the enamel. The superficial 3-5 microns was prismless with a Fe/Ca ratio of about 25/75 in the maxillary and about 10/90 in the mandibular incisor. The latter concentration of iron was insufficient to give visible pigmentation to the enamel. The extreme mesial and lateral enamel was neither typical of inner nor of outer enamel. Assuming that the length of the zone of enamel secretion is half the corresponding length in the rat, it could be calculated that ameloblasts in mouse mandibular incisors produce enamel at a rate of about 6 microns per day, about half the corresponding rate in the rat. In spite of this, the mouse mandibular incisor has a relatively thick layer of enamel, since the ameloblasts spend a relatively long time in the zone of enamel secretion due to a fairly slow eruption rate.

Detection of approximal caries with a storage phosphor system. A comparison of enhanced digital images with dental X-ray film

OBJECTIVES

To compare the accuracy of approximal caries detection using enhanced and unenhanced storage phosphor images and dental X-ray film.

METHODS

Fifty premolar/molar teeth were exposed simultaneously under standardized conditions on storage phosphor (SP) image plates (Digora) and Ektaspeed film. The image files were transferred to a different platform for image processing. Using a five-point confidence scale, ten observers rated 95 approximal surfaces for caries in enamel and dentin with three image modalities: enhanced and unenhanced SP images and film. The observations were validated microscopically. Diagnostic accuracy was measured as the area beneath the ROC curve (Az).

RESULTS

Enhanced SP images had significantly higher Az values in both enamel (Az = 0.819) and dentin (Az = 0.845) than unenhanced images and film. No significant differences were found in either enamel or dentin between unenhanced SP images (Az = 0.780 and Az = 0.789) and film (Az = 0.688 and Az = 0.793).

CONCLUSION

Enhancement of storage phosphor images improved detection of approximal caries in this in vitro study compared with unenhanced images and Ektaspeed film.

Intraoral storage phosphor radiography for approximal caries detection and effect of image magnification: comparison with conventional radiography

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was first to test the newly developed storage phosphor (SP) system Digora for diagnostic accuracy of approximal caries detection with special emphasis on image magnification compared with conventional radiography, and second, to test whether the image surroundings could have an influence on observer performance.

DESIGN

SP plates and Ektaspeed films were exposed simultaneously to 50 extracted premolars/molars, and the SP image files were transported to a different platform for processing. Ten observers rated 95 approximal surfaces for caries with four imaging modalities: (1) SP images at dental film size viewed with black surroundings, (2) magnified (x4) images viewed in the same manner, (3) magnified (x4) images viewed with text and graphics framing, and (4) films viewed on a light box. The observations were validated with microscopy. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated as the area beneath the receiver operating characteristic curve (AZ).

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between SP images and films. Magnified SP images with text and graphics demonstrated significantly higher AZ values than nonmagnified images both for enamel and dentin, and magnified images with black surroundings demonstrated similar results for dentin.

CONCLUSIONS

In this in vitro material the observer performance for approximal caries detection with SP images was comparable to that with Ektaspeed films. The magnified SP images generally showed a significantly higher diagnostic accuracy than the nonmagnified SP images.

Trace element analysis of blackish staining on the crowns of human archaeological teeth

A blackish staining found on the crowns of teeth of 51 skulls from the excavation of the medieval St. Olav's church in Trondheim was analyzed using secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). In four teeth, mass spectra and step scan concentration profiles of SIMS were performed and compared with the grey scale pattern in photographs of the analyzed paths. The manganese curve showed the highest degree of conformity with the grey scale pattern. The AAS analysis confirmed the increased content of manganese in blackish stained enamel. It was concluded that manganese, probably in the form of an oxide deposited from the soil, was the cause of the blackish staining.

A synthetic, chemically modified ribozyme eliminates amelogenin, the major translation product in developing mouse enamel in vivo

Ribozymes are small RNA structures capable of cleaving RNA target molecules in a catalytic fashion. Designed ribozymes can be targeted to specific mRNAs, blocking their expression without affecting normal functions of other genes. Because of their specific and catalytic mode of action ribozymes are ideal agents for therapeutic interventions against malfunctioning or foreign gene products. Here we report successful experiments to 'knock out' a major translation product in vivo using synthesized, chemically modified ribozymes. The ribozymes, designed to cleave amelogenin mRNA, were injected close to developing mandibular molar teeth in newborn mice, resulting in a prolonged and specific arrest of amelogenin synthesis not caused by general toxicity. No carriers were required to assist cellular uptake. Amelogenins are highly conserved tissue-specific proteins that play a central role in mammalian enamel biomineralization. Ultrastructural analyses of in vivo ribozyme-treated teeth demonstrated their failure to develop normally mineralized enamel. These results demonstrate that synthesized ribozymes can be highly effective in achieving both timed and localized 'knock-out' of important gene products in vivo, and suggest new possibilities for suppression of gene expression for research and therapeutic purposes.

Accelerated eruption of rat lower incisor. Relationship between impeded and unimpeded eruption rates, rate of attrition, tooth length, and production of dentin and enamel

The present investigation studies the effects of persistently cutting one lower rat incisor out of occlusion. Within four days, the rate of eruption of the cut (unimpeded) incisor increased to 216% and that of the uncut (impeded) contralateral to 136% of the baseline rate. While the former remained high, the latter decreased gradually to about 90% within three weeks. The rate of attrition of the impeded incisor increased to 233% of the baseline rate within two days, then fell abruptly, and remained at a slightly lower level than the rate of eruption. Accordingly, the length of the erupted part of the impeded incisor decreased initially, but increased gradually after about four days. Measurements made on SEM micrographs of the series of transverse tooth segments obtained when cutting the incisor out of occlusion, showed that growth-related increase in mesiodistal tooth width was arrested from the 10th segment, dentin thickness decreased gradually to about 50% in the 12th segment, and enamel thickness, after an initial increase, decreased to about 80% in the 11th segment. The present study provides experimental evidence that accelerated eruption affects morphogenesis and histogenesis of the rat lower incisor. An impeded incisor, especially the contralateral, may not serve as an ideal control.

Occurrence and distribution of blackish staining on the crowns of human teeth obtained from an archeological excavation of a medieval site in Norway

An excavation in Trondheim, Norway, in 1984-85, uncovered a part of the medieval (1100-1600) cemetery of St Olav's Church. Of 388 excavated skeletons, 248 had skulls where the condition of the jaws and teeth allowed examination. In 51 of these skulls the teeth exhibited a characteristic blackish staining. A higher percentage of affected skulls was found in areas with organic, woodchip layers than in areas with gravelly sand. Affected skulls tended to have a high percentage of their teeth stained, but the staining tended to be restricted to only one or two of the three tooth surfaces scored. Posterior teeth were more often affected than anterior teeth, the occlusal/incisal part more often than the cervical part, and the buccal/labial part more often than the lingual part. Nonerupted third molars could also be stained. Staining seemed to be hampered by calculus. Occurrence of staining was independent of the presence or absence of a coffin and of coffin type. The extent of staining (% of stained surfaces within a dentition) was independent of sex and age. High correlation was found between all four jaw quadrants. There was no independence between color of the jawbone and occurrence of stained teeth. It was concluded that the staining phenomenon probably can be ascribed to factors in the soil. In vivo predisposing influences cannot be excluded.

Amelogenin gene similarity in vertebrates: DNA sequences encoding amelogenin seem to be conserved during evolution

Mouse amelogenin cDNA was used in hybridization assays with genomic DNA, cut with the restriction enzyme Eco RI, from the edentulous chicken (Gallus domesticus), the monophyodont mouse (as control), diphyodont man, and the polyphyodont fishes Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and seawolf (Anarrhichas lupus). The hybridization assay was performed under stringent conditions with non-radioactive probes. Hybridization was obtained with mouse (6.4-kb band), man (9-kb and 13-kb bands), and seawolf (18-kb band) genomic DNA. This demonstrates DNA sequence similarities between these species, and supports the theory that DNA sequences encoding enamel proteins appear to be highly conserved during the evolution of vertebrates. Lack of hybridization in salmon and chicken may be due to sequence divergences or structural differences in an amelogenin gene analog, or it may be that no amelogenin gene is present in these animals.

Structural characteristics of staircase-type Retzius lines in human dental enamel analyzed by scanning electron microscopy

Based on a scanning electron microscopic (SEM) analysis of adjoining, acid-etched planes cut through human cervical enamel, the structural characteristics of staircase-type Retzius lines have been clarified. Structural features associated with this type of Retzius lines--such as cleftlike defects, decreased dimension of prisms, increased interprism, club-shaped appearance of prisms, oblique ridges, and triangular regions--have been incorporated into a unifying, three-dimensional model. A continuous discontinuity defect, involving both prisms and interprism, is a prominent feature of this type of Retzius lines. Prisms and interprism facing the deep aspect of the cleftlike defect show an enlarged, flat surface that encroaches on the cervically situated prisms being rebuilt from the same cleft. The initial part of a prism taking off from the cleft is of distorted shape. As the prism reaches the level of the interprism cleft, it abruptly regains its normal size and shape. The relationship between this type of Retzius lines and the carious process is discussed, and it is suggested that the discontinuity defect may retard the carious lesion due to a protective effect of its supposed organic content. The developmental events creating staircase-type Retzius lines are discussed, and it is suggested that Tomes' processes are constricted near their bases with a corresponding increase in interprismatic growth region. Tomes' processes will have to reshape plastically as they move out of the constricted pits, trailing the parent ameloblasts as they resume enamel production and move in the direction of the prisms.

Ectopic tooth enamel. An SEM study of the structure of enamel in enamel pearls

Eighteen human molars with enamel pearls ranging in diameter from 0.8 to 2.7 mm were sectioned, acid-etched, and processed for SEM observation. In addition to pearl enamel, the specimens contained crown enamel for comparison. All pearls were of the composite type. The enamel layer reached maximal thicknesses of between 0.3 and 0.7 mm opposite the tip of the dentinal cone. The enamel structure was normal, but more variable and irregular than crown enamel. The prism course was often irregular throughout the whole thickness of enamel. Distinct Hunter-Schreger bands were absent. Prisms and interprism were occasionally difficult to identify as separate entities. The packing of crystals seemed to be less tight in pearl enamel. The scarcity of Retzius lines was attributed to the method of preparation. Prism cross-striations with a periodicity ranging between 1.3 and 4.5 microns were frequently encountered. A superficial prism-free zone with a regular 1.7-2.5-microns striation was present in localized regions of many pearls. The formation time of a medium-sized pearl was calculated to be about 11.5 months. A variety of cross-cut prism configurations was observed. Occasional hypoplastic lesions and hypomineralized areas were encountered. In conclusion, pearl enamel possesses most of the structural attributes of crown enamel, but in general its organization seems to be less orderly. Enamel pearls represent developmental disturbances in position and timing more than in structure.

Multiplane sectioning and scanning electron microscopy as a method for studying the three-dimensional structure of mature dental enamel

A method is described where teeth are sectioned/ground along at least two planes, etched, and viewed at various angles in the SEM in order to study the three-dimensional structure of enamel. This multiplane sectioning-scanning electron microscopy (MPS-SEM) method has been applied to the study of rat and human enamel. The method demonstrates in a direct way the complex three-dimensional structure of rat incisor enamel; the path of prisms and the distribution of interprismatic substance. The different appearance of alternate prism rows as seen in the longitudinal plane is seen to be due to prisms in alternate rows being inclined to different degrees in the transverse plane. In human enamel, the method reveals the three-dimensional nature of Retzius lines. In tangential planes cut at right angles to the prisms, Retzius lines are identified on the basis of an altered size, shape or etching pattern of prisms. Considerable variation in etching pattern within the same tangential plane was observed. Enamel tufts could be observed simultaneously in tangential and longitudinal planes, giving information about their three-dimensional extent and their relationship to Hunter-Schreger bands and to prisms and interprismatic substance. The main advantage of the method is that deduction of three-dimensional structure from the appearance of the structure in one plane is aided by the appearance of the structure in the adjoining plane.

Enamel apposition rate and the prism periodicity in human teeth

A method is presented which allows the average daily rate of enamel apposition to be estimated based on measurements of the length of prisms in longitudinal ground sections, and on available data for the time of formation of the tooth crown. The method was applied on 21 sections of human maxillary premolars. The reproducibility of the method was satisfactory, the error of measurement being in the order of 3.8%. After corrections having been made for the deviation of prisms from a radial direction, the average daily rate of enamel apposition along the prisms for any maxillary premolar was estimated to be within a range of from 2.0 to 6.1 microns, while a more probable rate would be 2.7-4.6 microns. These results are in agreement with experimental data, and are also compatible with the observed cross-striation prism periodicity. The present study supports the theory that there exists a relationship between the prism periodicity and a 24-h rhythm in enamel apposition in human teeth.

Circumferential continuity of perikymata in human dental enamel investigated by scanning electron microscopy

Theoretically the perikymata may represent one of two possible configurations: closed circles or continuous spirals. In the present study one randomly selected perikyma groove in one randomly selected tooth (the mandibular first premolar of a 12-yr-old girl) was tracked around the circumference of the crown in the scanning electron microscope. It was found that the perikymata geometrically represented closed circles. The possibility of methodologic error was excluded.

A scanning electron microscope study of the three-dimensional extent of Retzius lines in human dental enamel

A method involving carefully planned sectioning and grinding of human maxillary first premolars, allowing enamel structure to be studied with the SEM in more than one plane at the same time, was employed to demonstrate the extent of Retzius lines within the confines of the three-dimensional enamel cap. It was found that the Retzius lines behaved as could be predicted by the theory stating that the striae represent one-dimensional cuts of two-dimensional, curved growth planes. Retzius lines in adjoining planes were continuous across the edge where the two planes met. In a supernumerary tooth, the surface of its hypoplastic tooth tip was continuous with distinct Retzius lines. The present observations provide for the first time direct morphologic verification of the supposed nature of Retzius lines, with reference to extent and continuity in three-dimensional space.

Multiangular viewing of dental enamel in the SEM: an apparatus for controlled mechanical specimen preparation

An apparatus is described which can be used for controlled sectioning and grinding of tooth specimens to be studied in the SEM. Each specimen can be sectioned and ground along several planes. During the procedures the specimen remains fixed to a stub which after the final processing can be inserted directly into the scanning electron microscope.

Rationale for consistency in the use of enamel surface terms: perikymata and imbrications

The use of the enamel surface terms perikymata and imbrications/imbrication lines in the dental literature is inconsistent and therefore confusing. Based on an analysis of these terms and their original use, the following system for their future use is recommended: the whole pattern of ridges and grooves on the enamel surface is termed perikymata or imbrications. Distinction between the two elements of the pattern is attained by adding ridge/crest or groove/furrow. In such combination terms perikymata should be used in its singular form, perikyma, e.g. perikyma ridge.

Multiangular viewing of dental enamel in the SEM: a simple specimen holder system

The specimen holder system described here has been found very useful when studying the three-dimensional organization of dental enamel in the SEM. The system includes small brass cylinders on which the specimens are mounted. The cylinders can be placed both vertically and horizontally in a specially designed holder. With this holder and a tilting capacity of 45 degrees all specimen aspects deviating as much as 135 degrees from the top surface can be studied.

The lingual angle of incisors

A morphologic trait, not previously registered, on the incisor lingual surface: "The lingual angle of incisors", was studied in Norwegians. The lingual angle is the angle between the floor of the lingual fossa and the dental tubercle. Measurements of the lingual angle could be performed with sufficient accuracy. Deviations from normal distribution in skewness and kurtosis values did not affect statistical testing. The general similarity of the frequency polygons for all incisors in the way they were peaked and stepped is possibly due to participation of the same factors on the genetic level in the determination of the trait. The mean lingual angles were (in degrees): I1sup = 142, I2sup equal 156, I1inf = 153 and I2inf = 154. No significant bilateral asymmetry or sex differences were found. Correlations were high for both central to central and lateral to lateral incisors in both jaws, highest for centrals in the maxilla and laterals in the mandibula. Central to lateral correlations were relatively low, especially in the upper jaw. Interjaw correlations were low, but I1sup showed a tendency to be better correlated than I2sup to lower incisors. I2sup and I1inf were the most variable incisors in each jaw. The dental tubercle probably plays an important role in determining the lingual angle. Measurements of the lingual angle give information on the profile of the lingual surface in inciso-cervical direction. Statistical analysis of a phenotypic trait may give information on factors which determine the trait.

Uncoated specimen of human enamel observed in the scanning electron microscope

A 1-mm-thick section of a human premolar was acid etched and observed uncoated in the SEM at accelerating voltages of 3, 5, 10 and 15 kV. Prisms and interprismatic substance were easily distinguishable. Low-voltage operation (3 and 5 kV) gave the best results. Specimen charging was detectable at 5 kV and caused reduced image quality at 10 and 15 kV. Application of silver paste did not reduce charging appreciably. Prolonged observation at high magnification (x 10 000) resulted in contamination of the specimen with consequent charging and reduced resolution. Dental enamel seems to be a material which is well suited when uncoated for observation in the SEM. This may be due both to the high content of the relatively heavy atom calcium, giving good secondary electron emission, and possibly to a certain degree of conductivity caused by diffusible ions.

The prism pattern of rat molar enamel: a scanning electron microscope study

Rat molar enamel has been studied by sectioning the enamel along various planes, and observing the etched surfaces in the SEM. It was found that the prism pattern was much more variable than in rat incisor enamel. Regions without prism decussation seemed to dominate in the occlusal half of the molars. Where present, prism decussation was of the uniserial lamellar type, but it varied considerably in distribution, extent, and distinctness. Prism decussation seemed to have a predilection for the cervical enamel, and was almost absent in the enamel on the occlusal surface. The interprismatic substance showed a characteristic configuration: In the inner enamel it appeared in the form of radially oriented sheets, which tended to delimit radially directed, single lines of prisms. In regions with prism decussation these single lines of prisms encompassed prisms belonging to different prism lamellae. In the outer part of the enamel the interprismatic substance exhibited a honeycomb appearance. The similarities and differences between the prism patterns of rat incisor and molar enamel may be of importance for understanding the mechanisms of amelogenesis, especially for the recognition of factors controlling the movement of ameloblasts.

A scanning electron microscope study of aberrations in the prism pattern of rat incisor inner enamel

The prism pattern in the inner enamel of adult rat incisors was studied with the SEM in unfixed tissues that had been sectioned, ground, polished, and etched. Six different types of aberrations in the prism pattern were encountered: 1. Prism lamellae may be shorter than the mesio-lateral width of enamel. 2. Prism lamellae may deviate from a transverse orientation. 3. Prism lamellae may "fuse" or "bifurcate." 4. Prisms of two adjacent lamellae may pursue a common course. 5. Prisms may change direction. 6. Variations exist in the outline of transversely cut prism profiles. Aberrations were observed at any distance from the dentino-enamel junction. These observations were used as a basis for an analysis of the movement of ameloblasts during rat incisor amelogenesis. It was concluded that it is physically possible for the ameloblasts to create the observed aberrations as they move along the path of the prisms. However, the aberrations seem to make it more difficult to understand the factors controlling ameloblast movement. Occasionally crystallite bridges connecting adjacent prisms were observed. A configuration resembling a bifurcating prism is pesented.

Serially etched shark enameloid observed by incident light microscopy

Longitudinal and transverse tooth sections of Isurus oxyrinchus were serially etched in 2.6% nitric acid. The changing optical properties of the etched surfaces were observed during the serial etchings, and the descent of the enameloid surfaces was measured. Shark enameloid seems to be less effectively etched by acid than human enamel; this difference may be due to differences in solubility between fluorapatite and hydroxyapatite. Most of the information regarding the structure of the enameloid was gained during the first five of ten etchings. The reflection of light from the surface was influenced by the orientation of the crystallites, longitudinally sectioned crystallites reflecting the light better than transversely sectioned crystallites. The dentinal extensions were continuous with and of the same structure as the underlying dentine. The radial fibers originated from the dentinal extensions, and they both contained organic material and were accompanied by crystallites. When the specimens were imbibed with water the distinctness of the dentinal extensions and radial fibers was improved.