Tooth Demineralization
| Definition: |
A tooth's loss of minerals, such as calcium in hydroxyapatite from the tooth matrix, caused by acidic exposure. An example of the occurrence of demineralization is in the formation of dental caries. |
| Notes: |
a tooth dis; white spots or white lesions do not go here: note WHITE SPOTS see DENTAL CARIES |
Tooth Demineralization Categories.
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Dental Caries - Localized destruction of the tooth surface initiated by decalcification of the enamel followed by enzymatic lysis of organic structures and leading to cavity formation. If left unchecked, the cavity may penetrate the enamel and dentin and reach the pulp. The three most prominent theories used to explain the etiology of the disase are that acids produced by bacteria lead to decalcification; that micro-organisms destroy the enamel protein; or that keratolytic micro-organisms produce chelates that lead to decalcification. |
Tooth Demineralization Definitions and Terms
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