Detection threshold of non-contacting laser profilometry and influence of thermal variation on characterisation of early surface form and textural changes in natural human enamel.

•Non-contacting laser profilometry (NCLP) minimum detection threshold for surface form and roughness was determined in natural human enamel.•Ambient thermal variation and subsequent NCLP sensor displacement was demonstrated and characterised.•NCLP stability and accuracy was greatly increased using a scanning enclosure and good temperature control.•Dental erosion wear scars in natural enamel could be created and characterised after 5, 10, 15 minutes erosion.•Step height in natural enamel could be calculated using profile superimposition, and profile subtraction techniques.