Evaluation of Skull and Tooth Morphology and Mineralization Using High-Resolution X-Ray Tomography

High-resolution X-ray tomography (microCT) is increasingly available in research settings, and is a valuable tool in the study of mineralized tissue development. At resolutions of 2–20 μm, achievable for typical murine scale samples, it provides nondestructive visualization of three-dimensional tissue morphology and a limited ability for quantitative measurement of developmental parameters. Sample preparation is simple and can be tailored for compatibility with other biological assays. Here, we describe the application of microCT to the investigation of lower incisor development in the context of overall skull morphology.