Publications Repository - Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf

Human teeth are subject to chemical erosion processes that can lead to a loss of tooth hard substance. Low pH and complexing agents in food and drink can demineralize the dental hydroxyapatite. It is estimated that 20-45 % of permant teeth worldwide are affected by tooth errosion. This can lead to increased caries risk, tooth sensitivity, tooth colouration and in the worst case tooth loss. One potential treatment of tooth errosion is the promotion of naturally ocurring remineralisation processes, e.g. by application of caseine milk protein. The Ca9(PO4)6 nanoclusters have the potential to cure damaged tooth material. Using vertical scanning interferometry we show the dynamics of de- and remineralisation tooth samples by analysis of the surface roughness development.