Organic chromophore in dentin and enamel

An organic chromophore in dentin and enamel is a chemical entity responsible for the visual color and staining of human teeth. These molecules are primarily located within the organic matrix of the tooth, which consists of collagen and non-collagenous proteins in dentin, and a much smaller proteinaceous component in enamel [1]. Chromophores typically contain conjugated double bonds that absorb specific wavelengths of light; the more complex the conjugation, the darker the appearance [2]. In clinical dentistry, these chromophores are the primary targets for bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide [3]. These agents penetrate the tooth structure and release reactive oxygen species that oxidize the chromophores, breaking their chemical bonds and converting them into smaller, less-pigmented molecules, thereby whitening the tooth [4]. While effective, targeting these molecules can lead to transient side effects like tooth sensitivity or gingival irritation due to the diffusion of peroxide into the pulp chamber [5]. Sources: [1] Joiner, A. (2006). J Dent. [2] Kwon, S. R., & Wertz, P. W. (2015). J Esthet Restor Dent. [3] Epple, M., et al. (2019). Dent J. [4] Dahl, J. E., & Pallesen, U. (2003). Crit Rev Oral Biol Med. [5] Goldberg, M., et al. (2010). Clin Oral Investig.

Other names

Tooth pigmentDental chromophoreIntrinsic stainExtrinsic stainOrganic tooth matrix pigment

Oxidation and reduction reactions involving the release of free radicals (such as hydroxyl radicals) that penetrate the dental hard tissues to cleave conjugated double bonds within organic chromophores, resulting in smaller, less-pigmented molecules [2, 4].