The Solubility of Enamel Surfaces

Abstract

The solubility of intact and ground enamel surfaces was investigated by a technique wherein small glass tubes were cemented on to the enamel surfaces and a series of applications of acid was made to the one area. The amount of P liberated from the enamel by each successive application of acid was determined. It was found that there was some evidence that the enamel of unerupted teeth was more soluble than that of erupted teeth and that the external layers of enamel were less soluble than the corresponding subsurfaces. The relative insolubility of the external layers may indicate the existence of a hypocalcified zone of enamel at the external surface of the tooth.