Tooth enamel

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Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel (/tuːθ ɪˈnæməl/), also known as dental enamel, is the hard, outermost layer of the teeth. It is the part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth and is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite, a crystalline calcium phosphate.

Etymology

The term "enamel" is derived from the Old French esmail, which in turn comes from the Latin smaltum, meaning a type of ceramic glaze. The term was later applied to the hard, glossy substance found on the surface of teeth.

Structure and Function

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and serves to protect the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, the dentin and pulp. Despite its hardness, enamel can be damaged by decay, trauma, and wear. Once lost, tooth enamel cannot be regenerated by the body.

Related Terms

  • Dentin: The layer of the tooth located directly beneath the enamel. It is softer than enamel and serves to support it.
  • Pulp: The innermost part of the tooth, containing the tooth's nerve and blood vessels.
  • Caries: Also known as tooth decay, this is a disease that damages the structure of the teeth, including the enamel.
  • Fluoride: A mineral that can help to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
  • Hydroxyapatite: The main mineral component of tooth enamel.

See Also

External links

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