Scientists know a great deal about what enamel looks like. However, they don’t know exactly how it forms. Fortunately, a technique called atom probe tomography now allows researchers to look at the distribution of the various atoms and ions in tooth enamel to see whether there are patterns. The method generates 3D visuals of materials at the atom scale.

Researchers were able to produce 3D maps that displayed the location of atoms that are crucial in the decay process. To obtain these 3D maps, researchers used a comparatively new microscopy technique known as atom-probe tomography. The new insight gained about the nanolevel atomic composition of tooth decay helps to prevent dental cavities and maintaining oral health hygiene.