Skeletal Calcium and Phosphorus

Bone consists essentially of an organic matrix laid down by osteoblasts upon which mineral matter, chiefly calcium and phosphate, is deposited, the mature bone consisting of a hard outer cortex and an inner area termed 

Calcification proceeds in the adult as well as during growth, and an adequate supply of calcium and phosphorus is thus essential throughout life to a healthy skeletal structure, including teeth in which mineral turnover proceeds after growth at a reduced rate. Certain factors, therefore, which influence absorption or retention of these elements can bring about demineralization of bone in some conditions. Their effects are discussed in the following sections. 

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