The Development, Histology, and Physiology of Enamel and Dentin-Their Significance to the Caries Process

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Abstract
A brief review of the literature is given. Odontoblasts which produce Korff''s dentinogenic fibers, are concerned with calcification of dentin, and have solid cytoplasmic processes. Neumann''s sheaths are relatively uncalcified predentin. Interglobular dentin and granular layer favor the spread of caries. Terminal bars of the ameloblasts are not artefacts. Recent observations show that removal of organic material and water from enamel and the influx of mineral matter are functions of the pulp by way of the dentin. Each enamel prism is formed by one amel-oblast and extends from dentinal to oral surface. Prism sheaths probably remain permeable longer than the rest of the enamel, but eventually disappear on completion of calcification. Penetration of stains into completely calcified enamel is by imperfections which also favor the spread of caries. These include incremental lines, tufts, lamellae, spindles and granular prisms. Most, if not all, lamellae are cracks permeated by organic matter of oral origin. Renewed attention is directed to the probably bacterially produced pellicle found on the enamel of many teeth and its association with the lamellae and bacterial film.

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