Retrospective dosimetry assessment using the 380 °C thermoluminescence peak of tooth enamel

The thermoluminescence (TL) response to gamma-ray irradiation of tooth enamel is reported. The tooth enamel was separated from dentine by using mechanical and physico-chemical procedures followed by grinding (grain size ∼100 μm) and etching. The TL was attributed to the recombination of CO2− radicals incorporated into or attached to the surface of hydroxyapatite crystals. The growth of the ∼380 °C TL peak with absorbed dose was examined with irradiated tooth enamel samples and reconstructed doses evaluated for tooth enamel samples from four human subjects.

► Thermoluminescence response after gamma-ray irradiation of tooth enamel was investigated.
► Thermoluminescence was attributed to the recombination of CO2− radicals.
► CO2− radicals are produced inside or at the surface of hydroxyapatite crystals.
► From the growth of the 380C peak reconstructed doses have been evaluated.