Sodium, Potassium, and Magnesium Concentrations in the Enamel and Dentin of Human and Rhesus Monkey Teeth

¹ Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA

Sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium concentrations were determined at various levels from the surface enamel to the internal dentin in 47 teeth of New England residents, 66 teeth of Indian citizens, and 20 teeth of rhesus monkeys. Sodium concentrations were low in the surface enamel, increased to a maximum at the dentinoenamel junction, and decreased to low values at the internal dentin. Potassium concentrations were similar at all levels of the enamel and dentin except for a slight decrease from surface enamel to internal dentin in the rhesus monkey. Magnesium concentrations increased steadily from the surface enamel to the internal dentin.