Researchers from the University of Washington and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have explored the microscopic composition of human tooth enamel, analyzing samples from individuals aged 22 and 56. Their findings, published on December 19 in Communications Materials, reveal notable differences in fluoride levels and shed light on the aging process of teeth.
Findings Highlighted with Advanced Imaging
Using cutting-edge atom probe tomography, the researchers constructed three-dimensional atomic maps of enamel samples. This technique provided unprecedented insight into changes in mineral content at the atomic scale.
The study revealed that the enamel from the older individual exhibited higher concentrations of fluoride, particularly in the outer crystalline shell. Such changes are believed to contribute to the increased brittleness of aging teeth, which makes them more prone to cracking.
Expert Insights
Jack Grimm, the study’s lead author and a doctoral student in materials science and engineering at UW, emphasized the importance of atomic-scale analysis. “To truly understand how the mineral content evolves, you must examine it at the level of individual atoms,” he explained.
Co-senior author Dwayne Arola, a professor at UW, noted the leap in resolution offered by this approach. “Previous studies in my lab focused on scales about a tenth the size of a human hair. At that level, we couldn’t observe the distribution of mineral and organic components within the enamel’s crystalline structure,” Arola shared.
Unanswered Questions
Despite the detailed observations, the team has yet to determine the underlying cause of reduced protein levels in enamel as teeth age. This protein depletion is believed to be a key factor in the loss of resilience and strength observed in older teeth.
This research marks a significant step in understanding the aging process of tooth enamel, potentially paving the way for improved dental care and restorative treatments.
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