Validation of hard tooth tissue thermal diffusivity measurements applying an infrared camera

The problem concerns investigations of thermophysical properties of small biological specimens. Results of experimental verification of some thermal diffusivity data of hard tooth tissue are presented and discussed. The measurements have been performed on two sliced tooth specimens of different thicknesses. The temperature changes of one flat surface have been recorded applying an infrared camera while the opposite surface has been monotonously heated. The results of measurements have been analysed in order to identify the differences related to variations in thermal properties of hard tooth tissues. Distinct differences between heated enamel, crown dentine and root dentine structures have been revealed. Lack of analytical heat transfer formulae restricted the analysis to qualitative aspects of the problem. Conclusions concerning possible quantitative calculations and the methodology of such an analysis have been formulated.