Distribution of Magnesium in Mature Human Enamel

Abstract

The distribution of magnesium has been determined in the enamel of permanent human teeth. The concentrations increased from the surface towards the interior. The gradients were not smooth, pockets of relatively high magnesium concentration frequently occurred around the dentinal cornua and in the region of fissures. The distribution patterns obtained suggested a correlation between magnesium concentration and low density enamel and possibly between magnesium and protein concentration.