Enamel Matrix Proteins in Normal and Abnormal Amelogenesis

Abstract

Histochemical techniques have been used to study three stages of enamel maturation in normal (fetal calf, newborn human, adult human) and abnormal amelogenesis (odontodysplasia, fluorosis, a compound-complex odontome, and an invaginated odontome). The amount of Type I matrix secreted decreases as amelogenesis progresses. Pockets of Type II matrix may be left at the dentino-enamel junction after maturation of enamel to Type III. Fluorosed enamel contains pockets which may extend the width of the enamel. All stages of enamel maturation may be seen in the compound-complex odontoma.