Processing the Complete Canine Tooth

Abstract

This paper describes a unique, reproducible method for the processing, sectioning, and staining of sections of the canine tooth intact with the bony matrix and gingiva. A 10% trifluoroacetic acid solution was employed to de-enamelize the tooth; de-enamelization was assessed using X-rays. This method supports sectioning through the complete tooth, a process which frequently requires re-infiltration steps, and generates nearly 2,000 individual sections. An overoxidized hematoxylin was employed which yielded staining that distinguished between the incremental lines in the dentin portion of the tooth. Masson's Trichrome stain demonstrated excellent preservation of structures, including dentin, cementum, dental pulp, periodontal membrane. vessels, nerves, and alveolar bone. (The J Hisrorechnol 25:137, 2002)Submitted May 7, 2002; Accepted with revisions August 8, 2002