Maturation and ageing in biominerals with application to enamel maturation

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Papadiamantis, Anastasios (2017). Maturation and ageing in biominerals with application to enamel maturation. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Dental enamel consists mainly of calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA). The formation and evolution of enamel is a progressive and complex process the final stage of which is post-eruptive maturation (PEM), when mineralisation is completed following tooth eruption and exposure to oral fluids. Although PEM is directly correlated with decrease in caries susceptibility, a complete model to describe the whole process does not exist. Several reports have recently suggested that the previously observed caries decline, which started with the introduction of F- in drinking water and dental products, has stopped and is in some cases in reverse. New research approaches are therefore needed, which will focus on caries prevention and not treatment.
This project monitored the \(in\) \(vitro\) effects of simulated PEM on the physicochemical properties of dental enamel and proposed a model which describes the whole process. For this purpose, primary and permanent bovine enamel was tested, using a suitably designed demineralisation/remineralisation laboratory protocol as well as characterisation techniques. The results were applied to the synthesis of enamel proxies, which could mimic the physicochemical properties of dental enamel; these proxies were evaluated for their potential to be used as enamel substitutes in dental research.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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