Abstract
The solubility in lactate buffer (pH 4.5) and the inorganic composition of intact enamel surfaces of 234 teeth obtained from eleven specified and diverse sources including trisomic 21 subjects, were studied. The solubility was determined at conditions approximating to equilibrium and the surface and two succeeding enamel layers (each approx. 30 μm thick) analysed. Significant differences in solubility and composition were found between some groups but trisomic enamel was not considered unusual in these respects. Enamel groups could be ranked in order of solubility; all deciduous enamel groups were more soluble than permanent enamels. For most enamels, the solubility was inversely correlated with enamel fluoride concentrations and directly correlated with carbonate concentrations and the ratio of these two components. Fluoride concentrations in the acid buffer correlated with the solubility and fluoride level in the respective enamel groups. It was concluded that environmental factors present during or following enamel maturation influence enamel composition and solubility.
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