Precision of 655nm Confocal Laser Profilometry for 3D surface texture characterisation of natural human enamel undergoing dietary acid mediated erosive wear

Human enamel has a complex hierarchal microstructure, constituting 96% mineral, 3% water and 1% organic protein [1]. The mineral content is a hydroxyapatite, sometimes referred to as a calcium deficient hydroxyapatite (HA) due to the constant dynamic flux of metal ions occurring with the oral environment [2,3]. Prior to tooth eruption, secretory ameloblasts form the fundamental microstructural unit of enamel. The enamel rod or prism, runs from the edge of the inner dentine to the outer enamel surface, having only 3 –7μm diameter whilst up to 4mm length, with each prism interlocked by an organic protein complex [1,4].
Source: Dental Materials - Category: Materials Science Authors: Source Type: research