Raman spectra of human dental calculus.

Raman spectra of human dental calculus have been observed for the first time by use of micro-Raman spectroscopy. The spectral features of calculus were influenced easily by heating caused by laser irradiation. Therefore, the measurements were carried out at relatively low power (5 mW, 1-micron spot size). The spectra could be characterized as phosphate vibrational bands due to the v1, v2, v3, and v4 modes. The overall spectral features did not resemble those of pure minerals such as brushite, octacalcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite. There were spectral differences among mixed calculus particles obtained from 18 adults, probably due to variations in local mineral composition and differences among patients. However, the averaged spectral features did not vary significantly with formation period from 1 to 6 months. Freshly removed and stored (5-11 months) calculus also gave comparable Raman spectra. Measurements on a fractured sample indicated that Raman spectra at saliva and dentin interfaces are nearly identical, and major mineral constituents may not vary significantly along the growth axis of calculus.