Theoretical model for the scattering of light by dentin and comparison with measurements.

A theoretical model of the scattering of light by dentin is presented. The model that results is a superposition of several scattering contributions, i.e., scattering by mineral crystals, collagen fibrils, and dentinal tubules. These tubules are oriented so that they cause an asymmetrical scattering process. The angular intensity functions are calculated for planes that are parallel or perpendicular to the plane of the tubules. The shape of the measured intensity function in the plane perpendicular to the tubules and the values of the scattering coefficient can be explained by the model that we present.