Effect of matrix bound phosphate and fluoride on mineralization of dentin.

Completely demineralized bovine dentin mineralized to a high degree, but only after extraction of about half of its organic phosphate. Initiation of mineral formation depended on the concentrations of Ca2 plus, Pi, HCO3 minus and H plus ions in the incubation solution. After nucleation, mineral accretion by the dentin continued in solutions that did not, themselves, initiate mineralization. The nucleation phase, but not the subsequent accretion of mineral, was sensitive to small changes in temperature. Inclusion of 0.05 mM NaF in the solution markedly reduced the amount of mineral deposited during the nucleation phase but apparently enhanced subsequent mineralization.