Determination of Size and Shape of the Apatite Particles in Different Dental Enamels and in Dentin By the X-Ray Powder Method

Abstract

The size of the apatite particles in 5 samples of dental enamel has been determined by the broadening of X-ray powder diagram lines. Higher dispersion than usual was employed. Figures ranging from some 600 A in a fine human incisor to 250 or 300 A in a human molar were found. Figures far outside this interval quoted in literature may be rejected as incorrect. That a monomolecular surface layer of such small particles constitutes a considerable percentage of the bulk material should be contemplated when a chemical formula for dental enamel is compared with analyses.