In Vitro Root Caries: Hexamethyldisilazane Treatment For SEM

Abstract

Characterization of in vivo and in vitro root caries systems have traditionally been carried out with transmitted light microscopy, polarized light microscopy and microradiography. Electron microscopy and probe analysis will provide additional information regarding the morphological and chemical features of sound and carious dentin-cemental surfaces. Of equal importance is the correlation of E.M. observations to that ovtained by light microscopy and microradiographic techniques.Previous E.M. investigations of early carious cementum showed a characteristic cross-striations of collagen fibers in sound cemental matrix. These striations were observed to be partially or completely lost in cemental lesions. Another study suggested that the breakdown of the major portion of the collagen occurred late or was the final step in the destructive phase of the carious process.