[The effect of caries and pulp inflammation on the mineral component of dentin].

A total of 94 dentin biopsy specimens of normal teeth, of those with caries and inflammations of the pulp were examined by phase x-ray diffraction analysis. The findings evidence changed ratio and concentrations of chemical elements and complexes (apatite phases) in the mineral component structure. Crystallographic studies have revealed a less symmetric crystal lattice and its deformation directly related to the pathologic process intensity.