Journal of Dental Research, Vol 64, 804-809, Copyright © 1985 by International & American Associations for Dental Research Online Journals
Histopathology of the initial lesion of the root surface: an in vitro study
P. Phankosol, R. L. Ettinger, M. J. Hicks and J. S. Wefel
An acidified gel system was used to produce artificial caries lesions in
root surfaces. Radiopaque surface layers were found with 47% of the
lesions. Demineralized bodies of the lesion and mineralized zones of
banding were seen in all lesions when examined by microradiography.
Cementum and dentin seemed to respond to the acid attack in a similar
manner. Although artificial root lesions did not simulate natural root
caries entirely, the acidified gel system resulted in a reproducible method
that might give insight into initial lesion formation on root surfaces.
This technique may be used for studying the physico-chemical process
involved in the demineralization of root surfaces and for testing the
effects of various agents in the prevention of root caries.
