Title: High-resolution electron microscopy of enamel-crystal demineralization and remineralization in carious lesions
Summary
Abstract:
The article discusses the dual processes of demineralization (destruction) and remineralization (restoration) in dental caries, using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to observe these processes in enamel crystals.
Introduction:
Dental caries is characterized by the destruction of calcified dental tissues due to microbial activity, leading to simultaneous demineralization and remineralization in carious lesions. This complexity is crucial for understanding caries progression.
Hydroxyapatite Crystals in Enamel:
Enamel is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite crystals, which exhibit a hexagonal structure. The article describes the crystallographic features, including lattice striations and defects that affect the crystals' susceptibility to dissolution.
Demineralization of Enamel Crystals:
Two types of demineralization are identified: peripheral dissolution (saw-tooth edges) and central perforation (holes in the crystal). The article emphasizes that central perforations are not artifacts but represent actual defects that facilitate further dissolution.
Remineralization of Enamel Crystals:
Remineralization can occur through:
Restoration of partially dissolved crystals: Small apatite units repair dissolved areas.
New crystal formation: Newly formed crystals appear in demineralized areas, often smaller than original crystals.
Growth of surviving crystals: Existing crystals grow and fuse with newly formed crystals.
Concluding Remarks:
The balance between demineralization and remineralization is crucial for maintaining dental health. In healthy enamel, these processes are in equilibrium, while an imbalance leads to caries development.
+---------------------------+
| Dental Caries |
| (Demineralization & |
| Remineralization) |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Demineralization |
| - Peripheral Dissolution |
| - Central Perforation |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Remineralization |
| - Restoration of |
| Partially Dissolved |
| Crystals |
| - New Crystal Formation |
| - Growth of Surviving |
| Crystals |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Balance in Healthy |
| Enamel |
| - Equilibrium |
| - Imbalance leads to |
| Caries Development |
+---------------------------+
Conclusion
This article provides a detailed examination of the processes of demineralization and remineralization in dental enamel, highlighting their significance in the context of dental caries. Understanding these processes is essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for caries. The use of high-resolution electron microscopy offers valuable insights into the structural changes that occur in enamel during these conflicting processes.
Summary
Abstract:
The article discusses the dual processes of demineralization (destruction) and remineralization (restoration) in dental caries, using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to observe these processes in enamel crystals.
Introduction:
Dental caries is characterized by the destruction of calcified dental tissues due to microbial activity, leading to simultaneous demineralization and remineralization in carious lesions. This complexity is crucial for understanding caries progression.
Hydroxyapatite Crystals in Enamel:
Enamel is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite crystals, which exhibit a hexagonal structure. The article describes the crystallographic features, including lattice striations and defects that affect the crystals' susceptibility to dissolution.
Demineralization of Enamel Crystals:
Two types of demineralization are identified: peripheral dissolution (saw-tooth edges) and central perforation (holes in the crystal). The article emphasizes that central perforations are not artifacts but represent actual defects that facilitate further dissolution.
Remineralization of Enamel Crystals:
Remineralization can occur through:
Restoration of partially dissolved crystals: Small apatite units repair dissolved areas.
New crystal formation: Newly formed crystals appear in demineralized areas, often smaller than original crystals.
Growth of surviving crystals: Existing crystals grow and fuse with newly formed crystals.
Concluding Remarks:
The balance between demineralization and remineralization is crucial for maintaining dental health. In healthy enamel, these processes are in equilibrium, while an imbalance leads to caries development.
+---------------------------+
| Dental Caries |
| (Demineralization & |
| Remineralization) |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Demineralization |
| - Peripheral Dissolution |
| - Central Perforation |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Remineralization |
| - Restoration of |
| Partially Dissolved |
| Crystals |
| - New Crystal Formation |
| - Growth of Surviving |
| Crystals |
+---------------------------+
|
|
v
+---------------------------+
| Balance in Healthy |
| Enamel |
| - Equilibrium |
| - Imbalance leads to |
| Caries Development |
+---------------------------+
Conclusion
This article provides a detailed examination of the processes of demineralization and remineralization in dental enamel, highlighting their significance in the context of dental caries. Understanding these processes is essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for caries. The use of high-resolution electron microscopy offers valuable insights into the structural changes that occur in enamel during these conflicting processes.
