A method for the study of internal spaces in hard tissue matrices by SEM, with special reference to dentine.

Infiltration of a porous hard tissue with methyl methacrylate, followed by dissolution of the tissue provides a three-dimensional methacrylate cast of spaces within the tissue. Examination of such a cast by scanning electron microscopy provides information on the nature and extent of the pore system to a degree that cannot readily be visualized by the direct examination of fractured surfaces. The findings described concern human dentine but the technique may have a wider application in studies on the internal structure of other hard tissues.