Initial dentin formation in human deciduous teeth

Dentin matrix formation is initiated as far as 11 deep in the prospective dental pulp. From this area, growth of the preodontoblast processes occurs toward the ameloblast. Process elongation is followed successively by 3 stages of dentin matrix formation: 1) fibril formation, 2) matrix maturation and 3) matrix calcification. These stages occur concurrently with differentiation of the odontoblasts. The bases of the odontoblast processes and distal surfaces of their cell bodies extrude cytoplasmic buds into the surrounding matrix. These function as initial sites of calcification.This study was supported by PHS Research Grant HD-01842-04, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.