THE MECHANISMS AND MEDIATORS OF TOOTH ERUPTION - MODELS FOR DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGISTS

Tooth eruption is a localized process in the jaws which exhibits preci se timing and bilateral symmetry. It involves resorption and formation of bone on opposite sides of the erupting tooth and these activities depend on the dental follicle, a thin connective tissue investment of the developing and erupting tooth. Biochemical studies have shown that during eruption cells, proteins and enzymes change in the dental foll icle and several growth factors and proteins known to accelerate or re tard eruption have been identified. This review discusses these aspect s of tooth eruption and proposes testable hypotheses and strategies th at can make studies of tooth eruption new experimental opportunities f or developmental biologists.