Effects of dentinogenesis imperfecta, sex, and tooth type on the compositional and structural organization of the dentin-enamel junction in the osteogenesis imperfecta murine model

Objective

This study investigates the structural and compositional features of the dentin-enamel junction in the osteogenesis imperfecta murine teeth, focusing on the effects of dentinogenesis imperfecta, sex, and tooth type.

Design

The study compares dentin-enamel junctions in molars and incisors, as these teeth experience different functions and growth patterns, using a multiscale approach that combines micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Raman Spectroscopy techniques.

Results

The width of the mantle dentin is significantly reduced in dentinogenesis imperfecta-affected mice. Female mice show significantly larger gradients in mineral content and structural dentin-enamel junction than male mice. Molars have larger gradient widths compared to incisors. Molars exhibit higher dentin porosity and a smaller mantle dentin width compared to incisors.

Conclusion

Dentinogenesis imperfecta causes a decrease in tubule diameter and an increase in the number of tubules, which may contribute to heightened tooth sensitivity in dentinogenesis imperfecta-affected mice. Females may have better resilience to stress and fractures, potentially explaining why dentinogenesis imperfecta might be diagnosed more frequently in males. Larger gradient widths in molars may help protect them due to their different functions and mechanical stresses.